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USS McInerney (FFG 8)

USS McINERNEY was the second ship in the OLIVER HAZARD PERRY-class of guided missile frigates. USS McINERNEY was the first "long hull" version in her class. Since 1999, the ship was part of the NRF training naval reservists. USS McINERNEY's awards include the Combat Action Ribbon, the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Navy Unit Commendation, the Meritorious Unit Commendation with Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with four Bronze Stars, the Navy Battle Efficiency Ribbon, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Armed Forces Service Medal, the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal and the Southwest Asia Service Medal with two Bronze Stars. Decommissioned on August 31, 2010, the McINERNEY was transfered to the Pakistani Navy the same day and was recommissioned as PNS ALAMGIR (F 260).

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS McINERNEY. It is no official listing but contains the names of sailors who submitted their information.

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• Click here to see which USS McINERNEY memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

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USS McINERNEY in the News:

• June 9, 2003 - McInerney Continues Impressive Counter Drug Operations

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History of USS McINERNEY:

USS McINERNEY was the second ship of the OLIVER HAZARD PERRY-class of guided missile frigates. Originally designated PF 110, the frigate was ordered from Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine, on February 27, 1976. Her keel was laid on January 16, 1978, and she was launched on November 4, 1978, sponsored by Mrs. Joan McInerney Kelley, daughter of Vice Admiral McInerney. McINERNEY was among the earliest ships of her class equipped for the operation of the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter and the associated LAMPS III antisubmarine warfare system. Her design incorporated two General Electric LM2500 gas turbines driving a single controllable-pitch propeller, a Mk 13 guided missile launcher for Standard surface-to-air and Harpoon antiship missiles, a 76-millimeter gun, antisubmarine torpedo tubes, and an integrated combat system.

During 1979, McINERNEY underwent final construction and fitting-out at Bath Iron Works while her prospective crew completed training at naval facilities in Norfolk, Virginia, and Bath, Maine. Builder's trials began on September 25, 1979, followed by final acceptance trials before the Board of Inspection and Survey on October 2. After deficiencies identified during the inspections were addressed, the frigate was delivered to the Navy on November 19, 1979, approximately eleven weeks ahead of the contractual delivery schedule. McINERNEY was commissioned at Bath on December 15, 1979, with Commander John Stoddard Berg in command. Secretary of the Navy Edward Hidalgo attended the commissioning ceremony. The ship was assigned to Destroyer Squadron Eight and established Naval Station Mayport, Florida, as her homeport.

Following commissioning, McINERNEY conducted post-delivery trials, engineering evaluations, and weapons-system testing along the Atlantic coast. During the early months of 1980, the frigate completed initial training and preparations for an extended series of trials involving the Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System Mark III, commonly known as LAMPS III. The Navy selected McINERNEY as the test platform for the integration of the Sikorsky SH-60B Seahawk helicopter with the ship's combat systems and the Recovery Assist, Secure and Traverse system, or RAST. The program was intended to establish procedures for operating helicopters from relatively small surface combatants in adverse weather and sea conditions.

Throughout 1980, McINERNEY operated in the western Atlantic and along the eastern coast of the United States, supporting the development and evaluation of the LAMPS III system. The trials included communications between ship and helicopter, radar and sonar data exchange, helicopter approach procedures, deck handling, and the use of equipment designed to secure and move a helicopter on the flight deck. On November 11, 1980, McINERNEY conducted the first underway test involving electronic communication between an SH-60B Seahawk and the RAST system. The test did not include an actual helicopter landing but demonstrated the ability of the ship and aircraft to exchange the information necessary for subsequent recovery operations.

On January 6, 1981, an SH-60B Seahawk made the first landing aboard McINERNEY using the RAST system while the frigate was operating off the northeastern coast of Florida. The trials continued during the following months and included evaluation of helicopter operations in increasingly difficult sea conditions. On February 1, while maneuvering to obtain additional flight-envelope data, the frigate encountered a combination of heavy swells and a roll of approximately 26 degrees that damaged portions of the flight deck safety-net supports. These trials provided information on the limitations of helicopter recovery equipment and the structural arrangements required for sustained aviation operations at sea.

During 1981, McINERNEY continued to support the LAMPS III operational and technical evaluation program, designated Chief of Naval Operations Project 189. The trials examined shipboard helicopter handling, antisubmarine warfare coordination, communications, and maintenance procedures. The frigate also conducted engineering drills, underway training, and combat-system evaluations in the Jacksonville operating area and the western Atlantic. McINERNEY's participation in the program contributed to the development of operational procedures subsequently adopted throughout the OLIVER HAZARD PERRY-class and other surface combatants equipped with the SH-60B Seahawk.

McINERNEY completed her assignment to the LAMPS III evaluation program on January 31, 1982. On February 22, Commander Herman J. Meyer relieved Commander Berg as commanding officer. Following completion of the aviation trials, the frigate began preparations for regular fleet operations. She conducted refresher training at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, during April. On April 10, a fire broke out in a 400-Hz electrical equipment room while McINERNEY was in port at Guantanamo Bay. The crew extinguished the fire, and the ship subsequently continued her training schedule, completing refresher training on April 26.

During the following months, McINERNEY underwent maintenance and modification work associated with the conclusion of the LAMPS III evaluation program. From June 28 to August 13, 1982, specialized equipment installed for the trials was removed. Between July 12 and 31, the frigate received intermediate maintenance support from USS YOSEMITE (AD 19). On September 3, McINERNEY received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for her contribution to CNO Project 189 and the development of SH-60B Seahawk operations aboard surface combatants.

On September 15, 1982, while operating off Jacksonville, Florida, McINERNEY intercepted a distress call from the civilian tug TAURUS, which was taking on water while towing another vessel. Working with an SH-3 Sea King rescue helicopter from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron One, the frigate transferred three sailors, portable pumps, and repair equipment to the tug. The assistance team fought fires and controlled flooding aboard TAURUS until the damaged vessel was able to reach Jacksonville.

McINERNEY departed Mayport on October 1, 1982, to participate in Readiness Exercise 3-82 in the Puerto Rican operating areas. The exercise included antiair warfare tracking, surface surveillance, antisubmarine warfare, shiphandling, towing procedures, and weapons-system training. During a missile exercise, McINERNEY fired four guided missiles against incoming aerial targets. The frigate also served as an opposing-force unit during a simulated war-at-sea exercise, representing a Soviet Kashin-class destroyer and using electronic equipment to reproduce the emissions of the simulated adversary. Following a visit to San Juan, Puerto Rico, she operated with USS AMERICA (CV 66) during carrier battle group readiness evaluations.

On November 22, 1982, McINERNEY departed Mayport for her first major overseas deployment, which would take her to the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean. She crossed the Atlantic and arrived at Tangier, Morocco, on December 2. During the port visit, the frigate received visits from Moroccan officials and representatives of the United States Embassy. On December 6, she conducted turnover activities with USS JULIUS A. FURER (FFG 6). McINERNEY subsequently received orders to escort two Royal Saudi Naval Forces patrol craft from Morocco to Egypt. After a visit to Malaga, Spain, she proceeded to Rota, arriving on December 17, where the escort operation was delayed by weather and technical problems affecting the Saudi vessels.

McINERNEY departed Rota on January 2, 1983, and returned to Tangier to resume the escort assignment. On January 7, she departed Tangier in company with the two Saudi patrol craft and proceeded eastward through the Mediterranean. The ships arrived at Catania, Sicily, on January 10 and remained there until January 12. McINERNEY subsequently continued to Port Said, Egypt, arriving on January 15, where the Saudi craft were released from her escort. The following day, she began operations in the eastern Mediterranean with the battle group of USS AMERICA.

On January 18, 1983, McINERNEY was detached from the carrier battle group and ordered to Beirut, Lebanon, where American naval forces were supporting the multinational peacekeeping force deployed during the Lebanese Civil War. She anchored off Beirut on January 20 and remained in the area until January 29. During this period, McINERNEY maintained maritime surveillance and communications while receiving intermediate maintenance support from the destroyer tender USS PUGET SOUND (AD 38). On January 23, the frigate embarked Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 34 Detachment Five, transferred from USS BRUMBY (FF 1044) after the latter had sustained storm damage.

McINERNEY departed Beirut on January 29 and transited the Suez Canal southbound on January 30. She subsequently rejoined American carrier battle group operations in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. On February 1, the frigate conducted an over-the-horizon targeting exercise against USS DALE (CG 19). During February, McINERNEY participated in passing exercises with the Royal Navy frigate HMS GALATEA (F 18) and the Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS CANTERBURY (F 421). The exercises included tactical maneuvering, communications, and exchanges of personnel between the participating ships. Additional antiair warfare training was conducted with aircraft from USS AMERICA.

On February 26, 1983, McINERNEY crossed the equator in the Indian Ocean at approximately 70 degrees 45 minutes east longitude. The crew conducted a traditional crossing-the-line ceremony for 152 sailors making their first equatorial crossing. On March 1, the frigate arrived at Diego Garcia in the British Indian Ocean Territory, becoming the first OLIVER HAZARD PERRY-class frigate to visit the island. She departed the following day and proceeded to Colombo, Sri Lanka, arriving on March 7 for a five-day port visit. During her stay, McINERNEY hosted diplomatic and military visitors and conducted exchanges with representatives of the Sri Lankan and Thai navies.

McINERNEY departed Colombo on March 12, 1983, and returned to Diego Garcia on March 15 for an intermediate maintenance availability alongside USS ACADIA (AD 42). The maintenance period continued until March 29, when McINERNEY and ACADIA departed to rejoin the American carrier battle group. During April 2 and 3, the frigate participated in an encounter exercise against USS AMERICA. On April 5, McINERNEY arrived at Mombasa, Kenya, for a six-day port visit. After departing Mombasa on April 11, she conducted passing exercises with the Australian guided missile frigate HMAS CANBERRA (FFG 02).

On April 19, 1983, McINERNEY conducted an over-the-horizon targeting exercise against USS KIDD (DDG 993) and fired an exercise torpedo against an underwater training target. The following day, she conducted a towing exercise with the ammunition ship USS SANTA BARBARA (AE 28). On April 22, McINERNEY anchored off Masirah Island, Oman, to transfer her embarked helicopter detachment to USS KIDD. She subsequently resumed operations with the carrier battle group.

On April 25, 1983, McINERNEY conducted antisubmarine warfare exercises with the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS BOSTON (SSN 703). The following day, McINERNEY and USS KIDD participated in another over-the-horizon targeting exercise against the carrier battle group. On April 27, while maneuvering with other ships, McINERNEY witnessed a collision between USS DALE and the British frigate HMS AMBUSCADE (F 172).

On April 28, 1983, McINERNEY received orders to rendezvous with USS BOSTON to evacuate a seriously ill submariner. The patient was transferred by motor whaleboat to McINERNEY for transportation to USS AMERICA, where additional medical facilities were available. The sailor died while being transported to the carrier. McINERNEY subsequently continued her return passage toward the Mediterranean.

On May 4, 1983, McINERNEY transited the Suez Canal northbound and proceeded across the Mediterranean. She arrived at Rota, Spain, on May 9 to replenish stores and departed the following day in company with the battle group of USS NIMITZ (CVN 68). After crossing the Atlantic, McINERNEY returned to Mayport on May 20, 1983. During July, the frigate underwent an examination by the Board of Inspection and Survey. On August 26, she entered a Selected Restricted Availability for maintenance and repairs. The availability was completed on December 24, followed by sea trials on December 28.

During the first half of 1984, McINERNEY conducted refresher training, engineering evaluations, and tactical exercises along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. Her activities included operations with the U.S. Coast Guard in support of maritime law enforcement and counter-narcotics missions. The frigate received a Coast Guard unit commendation for her contributions to these operations. Additional preparations followed for another assignment to the Middle East Force during the Iran-Iraq War, which had expanded into attacks on commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf.

McINERNEY departed Mayport in October 1984 for her second deployment to the Middle East. Following passage across the Atlantic and through the Mediterranean and Suez Canal, the frigate proceeded toward the Persian Gulf. Her embarked aviation detachment operated an SH-2 Seasprite helicopter in support of surface surveillance and antisubmarine warfare duties. During the deployment, McINERNEY monitored commercial shipping, including American-flagged tankers, and maintained contact with vessels operating in areas affected by attacks from Iranian and Iraqi forces.

McINERNEY continued Middle East Force operations during January and February 1985. Her duties included monitoring the movement of oil tankers, conducting radar surveillance, identifying shipping contacts, and assessing damage sustained by merchant vessels attacked during the Tanker War. The frigate also provided communications support and maintained readiness to assist vessels in distress. On January 5, she entered Mina Salman, Bahrain, for repairs to one of her diesel generators. After returning to sea on January 14, she continued surveillance operations in the Persian Gulf.

During February 1985, McINERNEY operated in the northern Persian Gulf and visited Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, where she hosted Saudi military officials, local dignitaries, and American residents on February 10. She departed Al Jubail on February 12 and continued surveillance operations until February 22, when she returned to Bahrain for upkeep and preparations for departure from the region.

On March 7, 1985, McINERNEY passed through the Strait of Hormuz, leaving the Persian Gulf as USS ARTHUR W. RADFORD (DD 968) entered the area. On March 8, she rendezvoused with USS ANTRIM (FFG 20) for helicopter detachment turnover activities and met USS CHARLES F. ADAMS (DDG 2) for the formal transfer of Middle East Force responsibilities. Following completion of the turnover, McINERNEY proceeded through the Gulf of Oman toward the Red Sea.

On March 12, 1985, McINERNEY called at Djibouti for fuel before continuing through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in company with USS HAYLER (DD 997). On March 14, she joined USS ESTOCIN (FFG 15) and USS JOHN HANCOCK (DD 981) for the passage toward the Suez Canal. All four ships transited the canal northbound on March 16 and continued into the Mediterranean.

During the return voyage, McINERNEY visited Palma de Mallorca, Spain, departing on March 21. She subsequently passed through the Strait of Gibraltar and made a fuel stop at Rota on March 26. On March 29, the frigate arrived at Ponta Delgada in the Azores, remaining overnight because of adverse weather. She departed the following day and returned to Mayport on April 6, 1985.

Following her return, McINERNEY underwent maintenance and resumed training along the Atlantic coast. During May, she sailed to Newport, Rhode Island, to support engineering training at the Surface Warfare Officers School and visited Boston, Massachusetts, where an engineering mobile training team embarked. On July 15, McINERNEY departed Mayport for carrier escort duties with USS FORRESTAL (CV 59) in the Caribbean. The frigate subsequently visited Freeport in the Bahamas before proceeding to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for interim refresher training.

McINERNEY arrived at Guantanamo Bay on July 26, 1985, and began an intensive training period that included engineering drills, damage-control exercises, weapons-system evaluations, and combat readiness training. She completed her final battle problem in August and returned to Mayport on August 26. In late September, the frigate put to sea to avoid Hurricane Gloria while conducting additional engineering trials. On October 8, she completed an Operational Propulsion Plant Examination with an above-average evaluation in propulsion plant operation and watchstanding.

On October 12, 1985, McINERNEY arrived in New York City to serve as a host ship for the Navy Birthday and Columbus Day celebrations. She subsequently proceeded to Annapolis, Maryland, arriving on October 16 for the Naval Academy's homecoming weekend. After returning to Mayport on October 22, McINERNEY conducted another period of Coast Guard-supported law enforcement operations in the Caribbean. The frigate visited Nassau, Bahamas, during November and participated in antisubmarine warfare training at the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center before returning to Mayport on November 21. In December, she received the Atlantic Fleet Golden Anchor Award for retention excellence.

During the early months of 1986, McINERNEY continued local training and maintenance while preparing for an extended modernization. On May 11, her homeport was temporarily changed from Mayport to Boston, Massachusetts. The frigate entered dry dock at General Shipyard Corporation in South Boston on May 19 for an Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. The modernization included installation of the AN/SQQ-89(V)2 antisubmarine warfare suite, improvements to the ship's sonar and combat systems, fin stabilizers, and modifications to the aviation facilities. The Recovery Assist, Secure and Traverse system and associated equipment were also upgraded to support the operation of SH-60B Seahawk helicopters.

The modernization continued through the remainder of 1986 and into early 1987. The work included hull, machinery, electrical, and weapons-system maintenance, together with equipment installation and testing. On February 13, 1987, McINERNEY departed Boston and returned to Mayport, where her normal homeport assignment was restored. Additional equipment testing, inspections, and training continued during the following months as the crew worked to restore full operational readiness following the extended shipyard period.

During the remainder of 1987 and the first half of 1988, McINERNEY conducted refresher training, antisubmarine warfare exercises, engineering inspections, and carrier battle group workups. The newly installed AN/SQQ-89 system and associated sensors were evaluated during exercises in the Atlantic. The frigate also continued coordinated operations with embarked aviation detachments, including helicopter handling, airborne surveillance, and antisubmarine warfare training. These activities prepared McINERNEY for her next Mediterranean deployment.

In August 1988, McINERNEY departed Mayport for the Mediterranean as part of the battle group of USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67). On August 12, she was operating in an 18-ship formation in the North Atlantic with the carrier battle group while proceeding toward the Mediterranean. After entering the Sixth Fleet area of operations, McINERNEY participated in carrier escort duties, tactical exercises, surface surveillance, and antisubmarine warfare operations.

During the deployment, McINERNEY operated with other American naval units, including the nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser USS BAINBRIDGE (CGN 25), the frigates USS McCANDLESS (FF 1084) and USS VOGE (FF 1047), and the destroyer tender USS YELLOWSTONE (AD 41). On October 25, 1988, McINERNEY was moored alongside YELLOWSTONE and BAINBRIDGE at Augusta Bay, Sicily. Additional maintenance and logistic support were received during subsequent visits to the same anchorage in early November.

Throughout the deployment, McINERNEY conducted antisubmarine warfare exercises and received the Commander Sixth Fleet Hook 'Em Award for excellence in antisubmarine warfare. The ship's performance during the deployment was also recognized with a Meritorious Unit Commendation. On December 21, 1988, McINERNEY participated in the rescue of twelve people from the sinking merchant vessel JENNASTAR in the western Mediterranean. Following further operations with the USS JOHN F. KENNEDY battle group, McINERNEY completed her Mediterranean assignment and returned to Mayport in February 1989.

During the spring of 1989, McINERNEY deployed to the North Atlantic for antisubmarine warfare exercises and operations with allied naval forces. The deployment took her north of the Arctic Circle, where the frigate conducted sonar tracking, tactical maneuvering, and surveillance exercises in northern waters. She returned to Mayport in May 1989 and subsequently underwent maintenance and additional training. The remainder of the year included preparations for future deployments, combat-system evaluations, and exercises intended to maintain readiness for operations with Atlantic Fleet carrier battle groups.

During 1990, McINERNEY conducted further operational training, inspections, and maintenance at Mayport. In June, she sailed to New York City for Fleet Week activities, arriving on June 21 for a five-day visit. The frigate was berthed on the Brooklyn waterfront and opened to the public. Following the visit, McINERNEY resumed training and preparations for deployment to the Middle East, where American naval forces were responding to the developing crisis caused by Iraq's invasion of Kuwait on August 2.

On January 11, 1991, McINERNEY departed Mayport for deployment to the Middle East in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, with Commander Michael O. Borns in command. The frigate rendezvoused with the guided missile destroyer USS KIDD and crossed the Atlantic. After conducting antisubmarine warfare exercises in the Mediterranean, during which she received her second Commander Sixth Fleet Hook 'Em Award, McINERNEY proceeded through the Suez Canal on February 5 and joined the battle group of USS AMERICA for the passage through the Red Sea and toward the Persian Gulf.

McINERNEY entered the Persian Gulf on February 14, 1991, as coalition naval forces continued air and surface operations against Iraqi military targets. On February 17, Commander Clarence E. Hill relieved Commander Borns as commanding officer during a ceremony in Bahrain. The frigate subsequently conducted escort, air defense, surface surveillance, and mine-related operations in support of coalition forces. During the conflict, McINERNEY escorted the battleship USS WISCONSIN (BB 64) while the battleship conducted naval gunfire missions against Iraqi military positions in Kuwait.

Following the beginning of the coalition ground offensive on February 24, 1991, McINERNEY continued supporting naval operations in the Persian Gulf. After the ceasefire, the frigate was assigned to escort merchant ships and vessels transporting humanitarian relief supplies, food, medical equipment, and firefighting materials through mine-cleared channels to Kuwaiti ports. These operations were complicated by the presence of Iraqi naval mines laid during the conflict. McINERNEY participated in the detection and destruction of eleven mines and escorted more than fifty merchant and supply vessels through the cleared approaches to Kuwait.

Following completion of her Middle East assignment, McINERNEY departed the Persian Gulf and returned through the Red Sea, Suez Canal, Mediterranean, and Atlantic. She arrived at Mayport on July 3, 1991. Her wartime service was recognized with the Navy Unit Commendation and other campaign and service awards. McINERNEY subsequently received the Atlantic Fleet Battle Efficiency Award and the Commander Naval Surface Force Atlantic Antisubmarine Warfare Award for her performance as an AN/SQQ-89-equipped antisubmarine warfare platform. From September through December 1991, the frigate underwent another Selected Restricted Availability at Mayport.

During the first half of 1992, McINERNEY conducted post-maintenance sea trials, combat-system evaluations, and refresher training. Her activities included engineering readiness, weapons exercises, aviation operations, and coordination with other Atlantic Fleet units. These exercises prepared the frigate for another deployment with a carrier battle group to the Mediterranean and Red Sea.

On October 7, 1992, McINERNEY departed Mayport for a Mediterranean and Red Sea deployment with the battle group of USS JOHN F. KENNEDY. The accompanying force included the guided missile cruisers USS GETTYSBURG (CG 64) and USS LEYTE GULF (CG 55), the destroyer USS CARON (DD 970), and other surface combatants and support ships. After crossing the Atlantic, McINERNEY entered the Mediterranean and began carrier escort, air defense, antisubmarine warfare, and maritime surveillance operations.

During the deployment, McINERNEY participated in Maritime Interception Operations intended to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq following the 1990 invasion of Kuwait and the 1991 Gulf War. These operations involved monitoring merchant shipping, identifying vessels suspected of transporting prohibited cargo, conducting communications with merchant crews, and supporting boarding operations when authorized. The frigate also operated in the Red Sea and conducted exercises with multinational naval forces. Her deployment included port visits and logistic support periods in the Mediterranean and adjacent areas.

McINERNEY continued Maritime Interception Operations during the first months of 1993, alternating patrols with replenishment and maintenance periods. The frigate subsequently departed the Mediterranean and returned across the Atlantic, arriving at Mayport on April 7, 1993. During the following months, she conducted maintenance, readiness inspections, and tactical exercises. From September through October, McINERNEY deployed to the Caribbean for counter-narcotics operations with the U.S. Coast Guard and other participating agencies.

In January 1994, McINERNEY returned to the Caribbean to support Operation Support Democracy, part of the international effort to enforce sanctions against Haiti following the overthrow of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide in 1991. The frigate conducted maritime surveillance and interception operations intended to identify vessels suspected of violating the United Nations embargo. Her duties included monitoring shipping movements, maintaining communications with other naval units, and supporting operations involving the inspection of merchant vessels.

During April and May 1994, McINERNEY participated in Exercise Agile Provider off the coast of North Carolina. The exercise involved combined operations by naval surface ships, aircraft, and other military forces, including simulated air and surface threats, combat-system exercises, and coordinated tactical maneuvering. The training formed part of the preparations for her next major deployment, UNITAS 35-94, a multinational series of naval exercises conducted with South American navies.

McINERNEY departed Mayport in July 1994 for UNITAS 35-94. During the deployment, she operated with American and South American naval forces in the Caribbean, South Atlantic, and Pacific, circumnavigating the South American continent and transiting the Panama Canal. The exercises included antisubmarine warfare, maritime interception, surface gunnery, communications, tactical maneuvering, and coordinated operations with participating allied ships and aircraft. Port visits provided opportunities for maintenance, replenishment, and official exchanges with host-nation naval personnel. Following completion of the multinational exercises, McINERNEY returned to Mayport.

During February 1995, McINERNEY participated in Exercise Strong Resolve, a major NATO exercise conducted in the North Atlantic and northern European waters. The frigate operated with allied naval forces and conducted antisubmarine warfare, surface surveillance, air defense, and tactical coordination exercises. Her operating areas extended north of the Arctic Circle. After completing the exercise, McINERNEY returned to the United States and resumed maintenance and training in preparation for a deployment with NATO's Standing Naval Force Atlantic.

During the first months of 1996, McINERNEY completed a Tailored Ship's Training Availability, Final Evaluation Problem, and Composite Training Unit Exercise. These activities tested her readiness for sustained operations with a multinational naval force. Following completion of the workups, Commander Kirk P. Beveridge assumed command. On April 12, McINERNEY departed Mayport to join the Standing Naval Force Atlantic, commonly known as STANAVFORLANT, a permanent multinational NATO naval formation.

After crossing the Atlantic, McINERNEY arrived at Gibraltar and relieved USS SIMPSON (FFG 56) as the American representative in the NATO force. The formation included warships from the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. The ships subsequently proceeded to the Adriatic Sea to participate in Operation Sharp Guard, enforcing United Nations sanctions against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. During these operations, McINERNEY maintained maritime surveillance, identified and questioned merchant vessels, monitored shipping movements, and coordinated with other NATO units conducting interdiction patrols.

Following the Adriatic operations, McINERNEY visited Venice, Italy, and Corfu, Greece. During these port visits, the multinational force began a personnel exchange program in which sailors from participating navies spent periods aboard one another's ships to observe operational procedures and shipboard routines. The frigate subsequently departed the Mediterranean with the NATO force and crossed the Atlantic, conducting tactical exercises and communications training during the passage.

During June 1996, McINERNEY operated with STANAVFORLANT in the Caribbean. The force visited the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, where the participating ships conducted intensive exercises in antiair warfare, antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare, communications, and shiphandling. McINERNEY subsequently led the NATO formation during counter-narcotics operations while proceeding south toward Curacao and Venezuela. These activities involved maritime surveillance and coordination with participating naval forces and law enforcement agencies.

In July 1996, Hurricane Bertha moved through the Caribbean and toward the eastern coast of the United States. Following the storm, McINERNEY conducted search-and-rescue patrols intended to locate vessels in distress and provide assistance where required. The NATO formation subsequently joined South American naval units participating in UNITAS exercises. The activities included coordinated tactical maneuvering, communications, weapons exercises, and missile firing, during which McINERNEY conducted a guided missile exercise.

Following the Caribbean and UNITAS exercises, McINERNEY proceeded to Norfolk, Virginia, for maintenance and a port visit. The frigate hosted a reception for the visiting NATO ships before continuing into the North Atlantic. During August, the force visited Boston, Massachusetts; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Reykjavik, Iceland; and Bergen, Norway. The deployment subsequently included participation in NATO Exercises Northern Light and Bright Horizon, involving maritime surveillance, antisubmarine warfare, coordinated air defense, and other multinational operations in northern European waters.

During the final weeks of the 1996 deployment, McINERNEY continued operations with STANAVFORLANT in the northeastern Atlantic and waters around the British Isles. The NATO assignment concluded with a visit to Portsmouth, England, after which the frigate began her return passage across the Atlantic in company with the command ship USS MOUNT WHITNEY (LCC 20). McINERNEY returned to Mayport in September 1996.

During the remainder of 1996 and the first half of 1997, McINERNEY conducted maintenance, training, and readiness exercises along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. The ship continued supporting surface warfare training and operations involving the U.S. Coast Guard. In the autumn of 1997, McINERNEY deployed to the Caribbean for counter-narcotics patrols, operating with an embarked Coast Guard law enforcement detachment.

On November 10, 1997, McINERNEY participated in the interception of a suspected drug-smuggling vessel approximately 105 nautical miles north of Colombia. The frigate detected a 40-foot boat traveling northward and pursued it with the assistance of the Colombian Navy and U.S. Coast Guard personnel. The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 2,200 pounds of cocaine and the arrest of four suspects. The suspected smuggling vessel was also seized. Following completion of the operation, McINERNEY continued counter-narcotics patrols before returning to her normal training schedule.

During 1998, McINERNEY conducted further Atlantic Fleet operations, engineering and combat-system training, and maintenance periods at Mayport. The frigate continued preparing for deployments involving multinational maritime exercises and counter-narcotics operations. Her activities included training with embarked aviation detachments, surface surveillance, and tactical exercises with other American naval units. During this period, McINERNEY was also assigned duties supporting the Naval Reserve Force, providing training opportunities for Selected Reserve personnel while maintaining her operational readiness.

In July 1999, McINERNEY departed Mayport for UNITAS 40-99, a multinational naval exercise involving the United States and several South American countries. During the deployment, the frigate operated along both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of South America, conducting combined naval exercises, maritime interception training, gunnery exercises, antisubmarine warfare operations, and tactical maneuvering. Port visits and official exchanges were conducted with participating navies during the cruise. Following completion of the UNITAS deployment, McINERNEY returned to Mayport in the autumn of 1999.

During 2000 and 2001, McINERNEY continued Naval Reserve training and operational readiness activities from Mayport. Her assignments included local training cruises, engineering inspections, combat-system exercises, and maintenance periods. The frigate also remained available for maritime surveillance and counter-narcotics missions in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard. Following the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, American naval units increased security measures and readiness activities while the Navy reorganized its operational commitments.

In January 2002, McINERNEY entered a Selected Restricted Availability at Mayport that continued through May. The maintenance period included work on the hull, propulsion machinery, electrical systems, weapons equipment, and combat systems. Following completion of the availability, the frigate conducted sea trials, inspections, and training exercises along the Atlantic coast. Later in the year, McINERNEY participated in a surface group training cruise that included a port visit to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands from November 15 to 17, 2002.

On February 3, 2003, McINERNEY departed Mayport for an extended deployment to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in support of counter-narcotics operations. Working with U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement personnel and an embarked SH-60B Seahawk helicopter detachment from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 48, Detachment Four, the frigate conducted surveillance and interdiction patrols in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The ship's helicopter, call sign Venom 506, provided aerial reconnaissance, target identification, and tracking of suspected smuggling vessels.

During the first months of the 2003 deployment, McINERNEY participated in several major narcotics interdictions. In late May, while operating in the western Caribbean, she intercepted a high-performance go-fast vessel suspected of transporting cocaine. The frigate had been conducting surveillance in an area of approximately 900 square miles in difficult weather conditions. During the operation, the embarked helicopter detachment flew more than 175 hours over a two-week period while searching for suspicious maritime contacts.

The suspected smugglers attempted to destroy their vessel and cargo by setting the boat on fire. McINERNEY's crew fought the resulting fire for more than an hour, recovering evidence before the damaged vessel eventually capsized and sank. The operation was associated with the interdiction of more than two and a half tons of cocaine and the detention of five suspects. By early June 2003, McINERNEY had participated in four major drug seizures during the deployment, with the Navy reporting more than ten tons of cocaine seized and approximately thirty suspected smugglers apprehended since her departure from Mayport.

Following the counter-narcotics operations, McINERNEY participated in multinational naval exercises off South America. On June 12, 2003, she arrived at Antofagasta, Chile, for Exercise Teamwork South 2003, a Chilean-hosted exercise involving naval forces from several countries. The exercise included coordinated surface operations, maritime surveillance, communications, and tactical training. On June 20, McINERNEY anchored at Caldera, Chile, during the continuing exercise.

During July 2003, McINERNEY participated in the Pacific phase of UNITAS 44-03. The multinational exercises included antiair warfare, antisubmarine warfare, surface gunnery, and coordinated operations with naval forces from six countries. On July 12, McINERNEY launched a BQM-74 aerial target drone from her stern during an antiaircraft gunnery exercise. On July 14, her embarked SH-60B Seahawk conducted a vertical replenishment operation with the destroyer USS STUMP (DD 978). Additional exercises and port visits followed before the frigate completed her deployment and returned to Mayport.

During 2004, McINERNEY resumed training and operational activities along the Atlantic coast. On June 8, she participated in a Coordinated Training Exercise for midshipmen off Virginia, operating with USS LABOON (DDG 58) and several other surface combatants. The exercise included coordinated maneuvers and a naval pass-and-review. In September, McINERNEY prepared for the possible effects of Hurricane Frances on Naval Station Mayport. On September 2, an SH-60B Seahawk of HSL-44 was secured and moved aboard the frigate as part of the preparations to protect aircraft and equipment from the approaching storm.

During the latter part of 2004, McINERNEY prepared for another overseas deployment, this time with NATO's Standing Naval Forces in the Atlantic and European waters. The assignment formed part of the Navy's contribution to NATO's maritime readiness and crisis response capabilities. The ship completed inspections, aviation training, and combat-system exercises before departing for Europe.

In early 2005, McINERNEY operated with Standing NATO Maritime Group One, the successor to Standing Naval Force Atlantic, in support of the NATO Response Force. The deployment included combined exercises, maritime surveillance, and port visits in northern and southern European waters. During February, McINERNEY visited Poland and subsequently transited the Kiel Canal in Germany. On February 15, 2005, she passed Rendsburg while proceeding westward through the canal during a transit from Poland toward Malaga, Spain. The passage included navigation through the restricted waterways of the canal and transit beneath the railway bridge at Rendsburg.

Following the passage through German waters, McINERNEY continued NATO exercises and port visits in Europe. On March 31, 2005, she arrived at Den Helder, the Netherlands, for a five-day visit during which a change-of-command ceremony was held. The frigate departed Den Helder on April 5 and resumed operations with NATO naval forces. Her deployment included further exercises and port visits associated with NATO Response Force readiness activities in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean.

During September 2005, McINERNEY also participated in precautionary movements associated with Tropical Storm Ophelia off the southeastern coast of the United States. On September 8, the frigate was among the ships ordered to depart Mayport to avoid possible storm damage. After completion of the weather-related sortie and subsequent operational preparations, McINERNEY continued her assigned activities.

During November 2005, McINERNEY encountered adverse weather while crossing the Atlantic. The frigate diverted to Gibraltar, where she remained from November 8 to 11 before continuing westward. She subsequently proceeded through the Azores and completed her return passage to the United States. The remainder of the year included maintenance, equipment inspections, and preparations for further operational assignments.

During 2006, McINERNEY resumed counter-narcotics operations under U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command in support of Joint Interagency Task Force South. The frigate conducted maritime surveillance and interdiction patrols in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, coordinating with U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement personnel and supporting aircraft. These operations involved tracking suspected smuggling vessels, directing boarding teams, and maintaining surveillance of maritime routes frequently used for the transportation of illegal narcotics.

In the latter part of 2006, McINERNEY departed on another extended counter-narcotics deployment to the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. The ship operated with an embarked Coast Guard law enforcement detachment and an SH-60B Seahawk helicopter, using the aircraft to extend its surveillance range and assist in identifying vessels suspected of transporting narcotics. During the deployment, McINERNEY participated in multiple interdiction operations involving suspected smuggling vessels and coordinated with law enforcement authorities from countries in Central and South America.

In January 2007, McINERNEY participated in a major narcotics interdiction off the coast of Costa Rica. Working with U.S. Coast Guard boarding teams and Costa Rican authorities, the frigate assisted in the seizure of approximately 2.3 metric tons of cocaine from a fishing vessel. The operation was the first joint drug seizure of its kind conducted by the United States and Costa Rica. The boarding was authorized by the appropriate American and Costa Rican authorities after the vessel had been monitored and identified as a suspected smuggling craft.

During the following weeks, McINERNEY continued operations in the eastern Pacific. By February 2007, the Navy reported that the ship had assisted in the seizure of approximately 5.8 metric tons of illegal narcotics during the deployment. The frigate also received Costa Rican government officials aboard in recognition of the joint interdiction. The visit included briefings, an inspection of the ship, and discussions concerning future maritime law enforcement cooperation.

McINERNEY completed the six-month counter-narcotics deployment during the spring of 2007. On April 5, more than 30,000 pounds of cocaine associated with two interdiction operations were displayed at Naval Station Mayport after being brought ashore for transfer to federal law enforcement authorities. The seized narcotics were turned over for use in criminal investigations and subsequent disposal. The deployment involved cooperation among American naval and Coast Guard personnel and law enforcement agencies from several Central and South American countries.

On May 31, 2007, McINERNEY arrived at Boston, Massachusetts, for a four-day visit associated with the city's Dorchester Day celebrations. During the visit, members of the crew participated in community relations activities, ceremonial events, and a baseball game involving the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees. The ship also opened for public tours. Following the visit, McINERNEY resumed training and maintenance along the Atlantic coast.

During the first months of 2008, McINERNEY prepared for another deployment to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. The frigate underwent inspections and operational training involving its combat systems, aviation facilities, small boats, and boarding teams. She subsequently departed Mayport for a six-month counter-narcotics deployment, operating in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific with an embarked Coast Guard law enforcement detachment.

On September 13, 2008, McINERNEY participated in the interception of a self-propelled semi-submersible vessel approximately 350 nautical miles west of Guatemala. A P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft of Patrol Squadron 26 assisted in detecting and tracking the suspicious craft. McINERNEY, with Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 404 embarked, maneuvered into position and launched a boarding team during a nighttime operation.

The semi-submersible was approximately 59 feet long and carried an estimated seven tons of cocaine. The suspected smugglers attempted to escape and jettison part of their cargo, but the boarding team secured the craft before its crew could scuttle it. The vessel was subsequently taken under tow by McINERNEY. The operation demonstrated the use of naval surface ships, maritime patrol aircraft, and Coast Guard boarding teams against low-profile vessels designed to reduce detection by radar and visual surveillance. McINERNEY completed her deployment and returned to Mayport on October 5, 2008.

Following the deployment, McINERNEY began preparing for the operational introduction of the Northrop Grumman MQ-8B Fire Scout unmanned helicopter. On December 10, 2008, a Fire Scout was embarked aboard the frigate at Mayport for testing and integration with the ship's aviation facilities. The system was intended to provide additional reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities during future maritime security and counter-narcotics missions.

During the first half of 2009, McINERNEY conducted tests and training with the Fire Scout unmanned aerial vehicle, including shipboard launch and recovery procedures, communications, aircraft handling, and surveillance operations. On May 8, a Fire Scout conducted flight operations above the frigate's flight deck during trials in the Atlantic. The evaluations continued as the Navy prepared to deploy the unmanned aircraft operationally aboard a surface combatant for the first time.

On October 5, 2009, McINERNEY departed Mayport for another six-month counter-narcotics deployment to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 42, Detachment Seven, embarked with two MQ-8B Fire Scouts, Bureau Numbers 167791 and 167792. The deployment represented the first operational deployment of the Fire Scout system aboard a U.S. Navy warship. The unmanned aircraft were employed to support maritime surveillance, detection, and tracking of suspected narcotics traffickers.

Throughout the deployment, McINERNEY operated in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific in coordination with Joint Interagency Task Force South, U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement detachments, and maritime patrol aircraft. The frigate conducted surveillance of suspected smuggling routes, investigated maritime contacts, and supported interdiction operations with its small boats and embarked boarding teams. The Fire Scout aircraft provided airborne observation and extended the ship's ability to detect and track small vessels beyond the range of its surface sensors.

On March 30, 2010, McINERNEY conducted joint counter-narcotics operations in the eastern Pacific with the littoral combat ship USS FREEDOM (LCS 1). The two ships operated together during maritime security activities, coordinating surveillance, small-boat operations, and tactical procedures. During this period, McINERNEY continued evaluating the operational capabilities of the Fire Scout unmanned aerial system under deployment conditions.

On April 3, 2010, a Fire Scout operating from McINERNEY detected and monitored a suspected narcotics-smuggling go-fast boat in the eastern Pacific. The unmanned helicopter was conducting a post-maintenance check flight when its operators identified the suspicious vessel. Information from the aircraft enabled McINERNEY to maneuver toward the contact and deploy a boarding team. The operation resulted in the seizure of the boat and approximately 132 pounds of cocaine, while the suspected smugglers were forced to jettison an estimated additional 440 pounds of the cargo.

The April 3 interdiction was the first successful narcotics seizure conducted by a U.S. Navy ship using the MQ-8B Fire Scout to detect and track the suspected smugglers. During the deployment, the two Fire Scout aircraft completed a total of 24 counter-narcotics and systems evaluation flights. The operations provided the Navy with experience in employing unmanned helicopters from surface combatants during extended maritime security missions.

McINERNEY completed her final deployment and returned to Mayport on April 15, 2010. Following her arrival, the ship underwent maintenance, equipment inspections, and preparations for decommissioning and transfer to the Pakistani Navy. During the summer, equipment and supplies were inventoried and personnel began the administrative work associated with ending the ship's commissioned service. Commander Paul D. Young remained in command during the final preparations.

On August 31, 2010, McINERNEY was decommissioned during a ceremony at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, ending more than thirty years of service in the United States Navy. During the ceremony, the American flag and commissioning pennant were lowered for the final time, and the ship was formally transferred to Pakistan. Commander Young presented the transfer documents to Captain Naveed Ashraf of the Pakistan Navy. The former USS McINERNEY was commissioned into Pakistani naval service the same day as PNS ALAMGIR (F 260).

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Homeports of USS McINERNEY:

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USS McINERNEY Cruise Books:

• Middle East Force / Operation Desert Storm Cruise Book 1991
• Mediterranean Cruise Book 1992-93
• STANAVFORLANT Cruise Book 1996

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About the Frigate's Name, about Vice Admiral Francis X. McInerney:

Francis X. McInerney was born on 28 March 1899 in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He entered the United States Naval Academy on June 13, 1917, graduated with the Class of 1921A, and was commissioned an ensign on June 4, 1920. As a junior officer, his tours of duty included the ships, USS NEW MEXICO, USS BURNS, USS WILLIAMSON, and USS DOBBIN.

In 1935, he received the degree of Bachelor of Laws from George Washington University Law School. Subsequent tours included USS CONCORD, and instructor at the Post-Graduate School, Annapolis, Maryland.

VADM McInerney assumed command of USS SMITH in May 1940, and was commanding that destroyer when the United States entered World War II. Later he was assigned to the ANZAC Squadron in the South Pacific and, as senior officer in destroyers, participated in the early strikes in the Solomons and the Battle of the Coral Sea.

In March 1943, he assumed command of Destroyer Squadron 21. He led his ships in the Solomons in the First and Second Battles of Kula Gulf. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat "V," the Navy Cross, Presidential Unit Citation, the Silver Star, and the Legion of Merit with Combat "V".

In August 1943, VADM McInerney was assigned as Senior Representative of Commander Destroyers in the South Pacific, and in March 1944, was named Chief of Staff for Commander Operational Training Command, Pacific Fleet. He assumed command of the battleship USS WASHINGTON in June 1945. In October 1946, VADM McInerney reported as Commanding Officer of the Naval Receiving Station, Treasure Island, California. He assumed command of Cruiser Division Three in March 1949. In January 1950, he became Commander Amphibious Training Command, Pacific Fleet. Subsequently, he commanded Amphibious Group Three, Pacific Fleet, and Service Squadron Three.

VADM McInerney's operations in the Korean War as Commander Joint Amphibious Task Forces Seven, Seventy-Six and Ninety-Two earned him the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal.

In May 1953, he became Senior Member, Board of Naval Inspection and Survey, West Coast Section. In October 1954, he was assigned as President of the Permanent General Court Martial, Eleventh Naval District. He retired 30 June 1955.

VADM Francis X. McInerney died on 24 June 1956 in San Francisco, California.

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About the Frigate's Coat of Arms:

The Coat of Arms for MCINERNEY symbolizes Vice Admiral Francis Xavier McInerney's successful naval career.

The shield's dark blue and gold colors, traditionally associated with the United States Navy, represent the sea and excellence, respectively. The dark blue cross refers to the award of the Navy Cross, and in conjunction with the Taeguk, alludes to the medal of the Military Order of the Taeguk given by the Republic of Korea for Admiral McInerney's services to that Republic during the Korean War.

The crest's coral and fountain (an heraldic symbol for water) refer to the Battle of the Coral Sea. Admiral McInerney was in command of the Destroyers ANZAC Force, which took an active role in the battle during World War II. The two swords are adapted from the Surface Warfare Insignia and refer to both the fighting nature of a fast frigate guided missile destroyer and to Admiral McInerney's distinguished naval service. The two stars, representing the awards of the Silver Star and the Bronze Star Medals, further symbolize the continued excellence, and the achievements, of Admiral McInerney throughout his career.

MOTTO: FAST, FEARLESS, GALLANT

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USS McINERNEY Patch Gallery:

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USS McINERNEY Image Gallery:

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