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USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3)

USS BELLEAU WOOD was the third TARAWA-class amphibious assault ship and the second U.S. Navy ship named in honor of the Battle of Belleau Wood, fought by American and German forces near Chateau-Thierry, France, in June 1918. Decommissioned on October 28, 2005, ex-USS BELLEAU WOOD spent the following months at the Naval Inactive Ships Maintenance Facility at Pearl Harbor, Hi. On July 13, 2006, BELLEAU WOOD - which was the first TARAWA-class amphibious assault ship to be decommissioned - was sunk as a target off Kauai, Hawaii.

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Crew List:

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

• Click here to view the list.

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

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USS BELLEAU WOOD Cruise Books:

• WestPac Cruise Book 1981
• WestPac Cruise Book 1982-83
• WestPac Cruise Book 1984
• WestPac Cruise Book 1989

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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

The coat of arms of BELLEAU WOOD is a blend of symbols. An image of a fighting U.S. Marine, in World War I battle dress, is at the center of the plaque. He carries a rifle with bayonet, and seems to be beckoning the viewer to follow him. Surrounding the figure are the cross, shield and swords of the Croix de Guerre, the French medal awarded to the Marines who distinguished themselves at Belleau Wood.

Twelve battle stars line the top of the plaque. They stand for the World War II record of LHA 3's namesake, BELLEAU WOOD (CVL 24). The gap between the sixth and seventh stars represents the ship’s only break in its war record. On 30 October 1944, while off Leyte Gulf, BELLEAU WOOD was struck by a kamikaze. The ship then had to undergo repairs and an overhaul, hence the gap.

Blue and gold, the prevailing hues of the coat of arms, are the traditional colors of the Navy. The Tricolor reminds that the battle of Belleau Wood occurred in France, and that the Marines who gave their lives at Belleau Wood did so in defense of another nation’s freedom. The segments - red, white, blue - bring to mind the nation's colors as well.

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USS BELLEAU WOOD's Commanding Officers:

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History of USS BELLEAU WOOD:

The contract for the construction of USS BELLEAU WOOD was awarded to the Ingalls Shipbuilding Division of Litton Industries in Pascagoula, Mississippi, on November 15, 1969. Originally intended to be named PHILIPPINE SEA, the ship was renamed BELLEAU WOOD before construction began. Her keel was laid on March 5, 1973, and she was launched on April 11, 1977. The ship was christened on June 11, 1977, sponsored by Mrs. James L. Holloway III, wife of former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James L. Holloway III.

Following fitting-out and acceptance trials, BELLEAU WOOD was commissioned at Pascagoula on September 23, 1978, with Captain Ted C. Steele in command. Designed to transport, deploy and support Marine Corps landing forces, she combined a full-length flight deck, aircraft elevators, hangar facilities, a well deck for landing craft and amphibious vehicles, and extensive medical and logistical facilities. On September 27, a Marine Corps CH-46 Sea Knight made the first helicopter landing aboard the ship. The following day, BELLEAU WOOD departed Pascagoula for her new homeport at Naval Station San Diego, California. She transited the Panama Canal during the voyage and arrived at San Diego on October 28, 1978.

During the closing months of 1978, BELLEAU WOOD conducted trials and training in the southern California operating areas. In December, she participated in AV-8 Harrier compatibility evaluations intended to determine procedures for operating the vertical/short takeoff and landing aircraft from the flight deck of a general-purpose amphibious assault ship. The tests included the examination of aircraft handling, launch and recovery procedures and flight deck arrangements. These evaluations contributed to the development of integrated helicopter and fixed-wing aviation operations aboard large-deck amphibious ships.

On January 3, 1979, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her first extended training operation in Hawaiian waters, with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 embarked. During the deployment, which continued until January 27, the ship conducted aviation and amphibious exercises in preparation for regular fleet service. Further training followed during the spring, including operations off the California coast and exercises with embarked Marine Corps units. From June 9 to 19, BELLEAU WOOD conducted additional operations in the eastern Pacific.

On July 8, 1979, BELLEAU WOOD entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for a Post-Shakedown Availability. The maintenance period included the correction of deficiencies identified during initial operations, inspections and repairs to machinery and shipboard equipment, and modifications to improve operational reliability. The ship remained at Long Beach throughout the remainder of 1979 and the opening months of 1980. On May 9, 1980, the availability was completed, and BELLEAU WOOD subsequently resumed sea trials and operational training. On July 8, Captain James C. Hayes relieved Captain Ted C. Steele as commanding officer. Later that month, the ship conducted operations in the northeastern Pacific, including a visit to Victoria, British Columbia, from July 12 to 26.

Following additional preparations during the second half of 1980, BELLEAU WOOD began training with the Marine Corps aviation and landing force units assigned to her first Western Pacific deployment. The ship completed amphibious exercises, aviation qualifications, engineering evaluations and logistical preparations while operating from San Diego.

On January 22, 1981, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her first major Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment, with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165 and other Marine Corps units embarked. During the cruise, the ship conducted amphibious exercises, aviation operations and combined training with U.S. and allied forces throughout the western Pacific. The deployment included operations in the waters around Hawaii, Japan, the Philippines, Korea and Southeast Asia.

In March 1981, BELLEAU WOOD participated in Exercise Team Spirit 81, a large combined U.S. and Republic of Korea military exercise involving more than 53 American and South Korean naval vessels and extensive ground and aviation forces. The amphibious phase included landing force movements, helicopter operations and coordination between the participating naval and ground commands. BELLEAU WOOD supported the embarked Marines through aviation, landing craft operations and logistical activities.

During April 1981, BELLEAU WOOD participated in two separate rescue operations involving Vietnamese refugees whose boats were in distress in the South China Sea. More than 135 refugees were taken aboard during the two incidents. The ship provided medical assistance, food, water and temporary accommodation for the rescued people. BELLEAU WOOD subsequently received the Humanitarian Service Medal in recognition of her participation in the rescue operations.

In June 1981, BELLEAU WOOD participated in Exercise Valiant Usher 81-4, a combined American-Australian amphibious exercise intended to improve the ability of the two countries' naval and Marine forces to conduct coordinated landing operations. The exercise included helicopter assault operations, landing craft movements and logistical support for forces ashore. BELLEAU WOOD continued her scheduled Western Pacific operations after completing the exercise and returned to San Diego on August 4, 1981.

Following post-deployment leave and maintenance, BELLEAU WOOD resumed local training during the autumn of 1981. From October 4 to 15, she conducted a training cruise to Mexican waters. During the first half of 1982, the ship continued amphibious and aviation exercises in preparation for another overseas deployment. On April 24, 1982, Captain Henri B. Chase relieved Captain James C. Hayes as commanding officer. From June 18 to July 1, BELLEAU WOOD participated in additional Third Fleet training operations off the U.S. West Coast.

On August 24, 1982, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her second Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment, with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 embarked. During the cruise, she participated in multinational amphibious exercises and conducted aviation training and operational support for the embarked Marine Corps units. Her activities included operations in the waters around the Philippines, Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean.

During November and December 1982, BELLEAU WOOD participated in Exercises Valiant Usher 83-3 and Jade Tiger 83. The exercises involved amphibious operations and combined military training with regional forces. The ship provided helicopter transport, landing craft support and command-and-control facilities for the participating landing forces. Following completion of her assigned operations, BELLEAU WOOD returned to San Diego on February 24, 1983.

On April 22, 1983, BELLEAU WOOD entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for a Selected Restricted Availability. The principal modification during the availability was the installation of a prototype Collective Protection System intended to provide protected spaces within the ship's island structure in the event of chemical, biological or radiological contamination. The work included modifications to ventilation and associated shipboard systems. The availability was completed on October 5, 1983, after which BELLEAU WOOD resumed preparations for her next deployment. On August 1, Captain Francis R. Donovan had relieved Captain Henri B. Chase as commanding officer.

On January 17, 1984, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her third Western Pacific deployment, with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 embarked. During the cruise, she participated in seven major exercises involving U.S. and allied military forces. These included Exercise Kernel Blitz 84-1, amphibious landing exercises at Zambales in the Philippines, Exercise Team Spirit with South Korean forces, Exercise Valiant Usher 84-7 and several phases of Battle Week 84-3.

During these exercises, BELLEAU WOOD conducted amphibious assaults, helicopter operations, landing craft movements and coordination with participating naval and ground forces. The ship also provided logistical and medical support for embarked Marines during training operations ashore. Following completion of her Western Pacific commitments, BELLEAU WOOD returned to San Diego on July 27, 1984. On July 31, Captain Charles M. Barker relieved Captain Francis R. Donovan as commanding officer.

During the remainder of 1984 and early 1985, BELLEAU WOOD conducted maintenance and operational training in preparation for a major overhaul. On March 13, 1985, she entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Washington, for her first Complex Overhaul. The ship was placed in dry dock on the same day and remained there until September 4. The overhaul included extensive maintenance of the steam propulsion plant, auxiliary machinery, engineering spaces, aviation support systems and amphibious facilities. Bremerton became her assigned homeport during the shipyard period.

The overhaul continued through the remainder of 1985 and was completed on January 28, 1986. Following post-overhaul trials and testing, BELLEAU WOOD returned to San Diego in early February and resumed training with embarked Marine Corps units. During the spring and summer, the ship conducted aviation qualifications, amphibious exercises and readiness evaluations in preparation for her next Western Pacific deployment. On July 10, 1986, Captain Luther F. Schriefer relieved Captain Charles M. Barker as commanding officer.

On January 9, 1987, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her fourth Western Pacific deployment, with a composite detachment of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 embarked. During the first weeks of the cruise, the ship proceeded to the North Pacific and Aleutian Islands to participate in Exercise Kernel Potlatch 87-1, conducted from January 22 to 30. The exercise was an integrated amphibious and carrier battle group operation and included the first winter amphibious exercises in the Aleutian Islands since World War II.

During Kernel Potlatch 87-1, BELLEAU WOOD operated in difficult weather conditions, with seas reaching approximately 18 to 24 feet. Heavy waves damaged the ship's bow during the exercise. The ship also participated in an air-defense training event in which her air controllers directed AV-8B Harrier II aircraft to intercept Soviet Tu-95 Bear and Tu-16 Badger aircraft operating in the area.

During the remainder of the 1987 deployment, BELLEAU WOOD participated in several multinational exercises, including Valiant Usher 87-1, Team Spirit 87 and Pitch Black. The cruise marked the first operational deployment of an amphibious assault ship with both AV-8B Harrier II aircraft and CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters embarked. BELLEAU WOOD also became the first TARAWA-class ship to receive a Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicle into her well deck and operated with a complement of 29 aircraft during the deployment.

Additional testing during the cruise involved an experimental air-defense concept combining Marine Corps Stinger missile teams, AV-8B Harrier II aircraft and AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters to provide emergency protection for an amphibious task force. The exercises examined coordination between shipboard air controllers, embarked aircraft and Marine Corps air-defense personnel. BELLEAU WOOD returned to San Diego on July 9, 1987, after completing her six-month deployment. Her aviation safety performance during this period earned her the Admiral James H. Flatley Memorial Award.

On December 11, 1987, Captain Hubert F. Tahaney Jr. relieved Captain Luther F. Schriefer as commanding officer. During the following month, BELLEAU WOOD prepared for another major maintenance availability. On January 8, 1988, she entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for a Selected Restricted Availability, which continued until June 7. During the shipyard period, her original Basic Point Defense Missile Systems were removed and replaced by Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems. The modifications were part of a broader modernization of the ship's defensive capabilities, together with maintenance of machinery and electronic equipment.

Following completion of the availability, BELLEAU WOOD resumed sea trials, aviation training and amphibious exercises. During the second half of 1988, the ship operated from San Diego while preparing for her fifth Western Pacific deployment. The embarked aviation units included elements of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161 and Marine Attack Squadron 513.

On January 12, 1989, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her fifth Western Pacific deployment. During the cruise, she participated in Exercises Valiant Usher 89-4, Valiant Usher 89-8, Team Spirit 89 and Valiant Mark. These exercises involved amphibious landing operations, aviation training and cooperation with allied naval and ground forces in the western Pacific.

On January 18, 1989, while BELLEAU WOOD was operating in the Pacific, a firefighting foam system accidentally discharged during routine maintenance, injuring six crew members. During the deployment, the ship's medical department also treated personnel involved in several serious accidents associated with military exercises and flight operations.

On March 17, 1989, a Marine Corps CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161 crashed ashore during the Western Pacific deployment. All four members of the helicopter's crew were killed. The accident occurred while BELLEAU WOOD was conducting operations with embarked Marine Corps aviation units. The loss was followed by an investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

BELLEAU WOOD continued her assigned Western Pacific operations after the accident and participated in further amphibious exercises with allied forces. The cruise included additional aviation training and landing force operations. On June 19, 1989, the ship returned to San Diego after completing her fifth deployment.

On October 4, 1989, BELLEAU WOOD hosted Soviet Minister of Defense General Dmitry Yazov and the Soviet Ambassador to the United States, together with the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other American military officials. During the visit, the Soviet delegation received a tour of the ship and observed an AV-8B Harrier II flight demonstration. The visit took place during a period of improving military and diplomatic relations between the United States and the Soviet Union.

From October 12 to 22, 1989, BELLEAU WOOD participated in a joint counter-narcotics operation off northern California. During the operation, the ship was placed under the operational control of the U.S. Coast Guard's Thirteenth District in Seattle, Washington, and embarked a five-member Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment. BELLEAU WOOD provided maritime surveillance, aviation and logistical support for the operation.

On January 19, 1990, Captain Paul G. Love III relieved Captain Hubert F. Tahaney Jr. as commanding officer. From February 9 to August 21, BELLEAU WOOD served as flagship for Commander, U.S. Third Fleet. During the period, the ship participated in training and operational activities in the eastern Pacific, including operations in Mexican and Hawaiian waters.

From March 12 to 30, 1990, BELLEAU WOOD conducted exercises off Mexico with elements of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 and Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464 embarked. On April 27, she departed again for operations in Hawaiian waters, remaining away from San Diego until June 20. During this period, BELLEAU WOOD participated in Exercise RIMPAC 90, conducting combined operations with U.S. and allied naval forces. Her embarked landing force included personnel from the U.S. Army's 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, and elements of the 9th Marines.

Following completion of her Third Fleet flagship assignment, BELLEAU WOOD prepared for her second Complex Overhaul. On November 13, 1990, she entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for the extended availability. The ship was placed in dry dock on December 6 and remained there until April 30, 1991. The overhaul included extensive maintenance of the propulsion plant, improvements to engineering and habitability spaces, modernization of electronic systems and the installation of communications equipment configured for use by embarked fleet command staffs.

The maintenance program continued throughout the summer of 1991. On July 2, Captain Douglas J. Bradt relieved Captain Paul G. Love III as commanding officer. BELLEAU WOOD completed her Complex Overhaul on October 11, 1991, and resumed post-overhaul trials and operational training. During the closing months of the year and the first half of 1992, she conducted amphibious and aviation exercises to restore her operational readiness.

In 1992, the Navy prepared to establish a permanently forward-deployed amphibious assault ship in Japan. BELLEAU WOOD was selected for the assignment as part of the restructuring of U.S. naval forces in the western Pacific. On August 31, 1992, she departed San Diego for her new homeport at Sasebo, Japan, with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 embarked.

During the transit across the Pacific, BELLEAU WOOD was diverted to Hawaii after Hurricane Iniki struck the island of Kauai on September 11, 1992. The storm caused extensive damage to homes, roads, electrical systems and communications infrastructure. BELLEAU WOOD provided humanitarian assistance, using her personnel, helicopters and shipboard facilities to support relief operations on the island. The ship subsequently received the Humanitarian Service Medal for her participation.

On September 30, 1992, BELLEAU WOOD officially changed her homeport from San Diego to Sasebo, Japan, becoming the U.S. Navy's only permanently forward-deployed amphibious assault ship. Her new assignment placed her under the operational control of the U.S. Seventh Fleet and enabled the Navy to maintain a large-deck amphibious ship in the western Pacific without the lengthy transit from the United States required for conventional deployments.

During October and November 1992, BELLEAU WOOD conducted operations in the Philippine area as the U.S. Navy completed the closure of its major naval facilities at Subic Bay. The departure followed the decision of the Philippine government not to extend the agreement governing the American military presence at the base. BELLEAU WOOD assumed responsibilities connected with the administrative and operational closure of Naval Air Station Cubi Point and assisted the final withdrawal of U.S. military personnel and equipment.

On November 24, 1992, BELLEAU WOOD departed Subic Bay, becoming the last American Navy ship to leave the base before its closure. The ship subsequently continued operations in the western Pacific, including a period in the Hong Kong operating area during December. Following the completion of these duties, BELLEAU WOOD continued her regular schedule of forward-deployed operations from Sasebo.

During the first months of 1993, BELLEAU WOOD participated in exercises and regional operations in the western Pacific. From January 11 to February 12, she operated in waters around Guam and Korea, followed by further Korean operations from February 28 to March 25. Between May 4 and June 9, the ship conducted activities in the waters around Thailand, including amphibious training with regional forces.

On July 6, 1993, Captain Harry M. Highfill relieved Captain Douglas J. Bradt as commanding officer. The following day, BELLEAU WOOD departed for an extended period of operations in the South Pacific, which continued until September 29. During this period, she participated in combined exercises and training with allied naval forces. The ship also continued supporting the Seventh Fleet's regional presence and amphibious readiness requirements.

On October 6, 1993, BELLEAU WOOD entered a Selected Restricted Availability at Sasebo. The availability included improvements to communications equipment, extensive refurbishment of Marine Corps and crew berthing spaces, and installation of the Rolling Airframe Missile System. The new missile system supplemented the Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems installed during the 1988 maintenance availability. The shipyard work was completed on January 28, 1994.

Following the availability, BELLEAU WOOD resumed operational training in the western Pacific. From March 15 to April 2, 1994, she conducted operations in the Hong Kong area, followed by additional exercises and deployments during the summer. On May 29, Lieutenant Mary Sobray reported aboard as the ship's intelligence officer, becoming the first woman assigned to BELLEAU WOOD's crew.

From July 5 to August 5, 1994, BELLEAU WOOD operated in waters around Guam. During the year, she also participated in commemorative events associated with the 50th anniversary of major World War II campaigns in the Pacific, including ceremonies in Guam and the Philippines. The ship subsequently returned to the Philippine operating area from October 5 to November 10 before continuing to Southeast Asia.

On November 26, 1994, BELLEAU WOOD departed Sasebo for operations in the waters around Singapore, including participation in Exercise Tandem Thrust. The exercise involved combined training with regional military forces and included amphibious operations and coordination between American and allied naval units. During the deployment, the ship received notice that she might be required for contingency operations off Somalia, where the United Nations was preparing to withdraw its remaining peacekeeping forces.

BELLEAU WOOD remained in Singapore for several days while the situation was evaluated. She subsequently returned to Sasebo but remained at 96-hour readiness for a possible deployment to Somalia during the remainder of December. The ship and her embarked Marine Corps units continued preparations for the operation as the U.S. Navy assembled an amphibious task force to support the withdrawal of United Nations personnel.

On January 20, 1995, BELLEAU WOOD departed Sasebo for the Indian Ocean with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262 embarked. The deployment was conducted in support of Operation United Shield, the multinational effort to secure the withdrawal of United Nations peacekeeping forces from Somalia. The mission followed the deterioration of the security situation in Somalia and the decision to end the United Nations Operation in Somalia II.

On February 8, 1995, BELLEAU WOOD arrived off Mogadishu, Somalia, where she served as a command platform for Combined Task Force United Shield. The operation involved American and multinational naval forces providing security and logistical support for the withdrawal of United Nations personnel from the country. BELLEAU WOOD's embarked Marines and helicopters prepared to support the evacuation, while the ship's command-and-control facilities were used to coordinate activities among the participating forces.

From March 1 to 3, 1995, BELLEAU WOOD participated in the final evacuation operations off Mogadishu. Marine Corps personnel went ashore to provide security for the withdrawal of United Nations troops and equipment, while helicopters and landing craft supported movements between the shore and the amphibious ships. On March 4, BELLEAU WOOD transported more than 150 evacuated civilians to Mombasa, Kenya.

Following completion of Operation United Shield, BELLEAU WOOD resumed operations in the Indian Ocean and subsequently began the return passage to Japan. She arrived back in the western Pacific during the spring and completed the deployment on June 4, 1995. Her participation in the operation earned the ship the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and recognition as part of the Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation awarded for the withdrawal.

After returning to Sasebo, BELLEAU WOOD continued regional operations and training. On July 21, 1995, she departed for another period of operations in the Hong Kong area. On August 5, the ship began a Selected Restricted Availability at Sasebo. During the maintenance period, repairs and preservation work were conducted on shipboard equipment and systems. The availability was completed on November 14, and BELLEAU WOOD departed for post-availability sea trials two days later.

On January 27, 1995, Captain John W. Townes III had relieved Captain Harry M. Highfill as commanding officer. During the first months of 1996, BELLEAU WOOD resumed her regular cycle of operations in the western Pacific, including an underway period from January 4 to March 4. The ship subsequently conducted further exercises in the Philippine operating area during May and in waters around Okinawa and Korea during June and July.

On June 4, 1996, Captain Frederic R. Ruehe relieved Captain John W. Townes III as commanding officer. From August 5 to 23, BELLEAU WOOD operated in the Sea of Japan and conducted exercises and visits associated with cooperation between the American and Russian navies.

On August 12, 1996, BELLEAU WOOD arrived at Vladivostok, Russia, for a port visit lasting until August 17. The visit formed part of Exercise Cooperation from the Sea '96 and included combined amphibious training with Russian forces. American and Russian military personnel conducted professional exchanges, sporting events and commemorative activities, including a wreath-laying ceremony honoring naval veterans of both countries.

During the visit, Russian helicopters conducted takeoffs and landings aboard BELLEAU WOOD, while American and Russian units participated in coordinated amphibious maneuvers. The port visit reflected the expansion of military contacts between the United States and Russia following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

On August 31, 1996, BELLEAU WOOD began an extended maintenance period in Japan. The availability included substantial work on shipboard equipment and systems and the use of a floating dry dock. On December 3, the ship entered the Sagami Floating Drydock for an Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. She remained in the floating dry dock until March 4, 1997, when she was undocked. During the following two days, the ship's 5-inch gun mounts were removed as part of the modernization program. After completion of the remaining work, BELLEAU WOOD conducted post-availability sea trials from April 6 to 8, 1997.

During the remainder of 1997, BELLEAU WOOD resumed forward-deployed operations. From April 24 to June 9, she conducted exercises in the South Pacific. Additional local operations followed from July 9 to August 8. From October 17 to November 25, the ship operated in Korean waters and the Hong Kong area, conducting amphibious exercises, aviation training and regional presence missions.

On January 9, 1998, Captain Ward L. Harris Jr. relieved Captain Frederic R. Ruehe as commanding officer. During the first half of the year, BELLEAU WOOD conducted further Seventh Fleet operations, including a deployment to the South Pacific from January 14 to May 1 and operations in waters around Thailand from May 11 to June 12. These activities included amphibious readiness training and combined exercises with regional forces.

From August 5 to October 7, 1998, BELLEAU WOOD underwent a Ship Repair Availability at Sasebo. The maintenance period was followed by preparations for Exercise Foal Eagle, an annual combined American-South Korean military exercise. On October 20, the ship departed Sasebo for Korean waters to participate in the exercise.

While operating in the western Pacific, BELLEAU WOOD received orders to prepare for an extended deployment to the Middle East. She was directed to return to Okinawa, where the embarked Marine Air-Ground Task Force 4 was disembarked and elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit were brought aboard. The change in mission followed renewed tensions between Iraq and the United Nations concerning inspections of Iraqi weapons programs.

BELLEAU WOOD subsequently proceeded toward the Arabian Gulf in support of Operations Desert Thunder and Southern Watch. Operation Desert Thunder involved the deployment of additional American forces to the region as the United States prepared for possible military action against Iraq. Operation Southern Watch continued the enforcement of the no-fly zone over southern Iraq established following the 1991 Gulf War. During the deployment, BELLEAU WOOD provided aviation, amphibious and logistical support for American forces in the Middle East. The ship maintained contingency response capabilities and supported Marine Corps units operating in Kuwait. Her embarked aviation units conducted training and remained available for missions associated with the regional military buildup.

On December 16, 1998, BELLEAU WOOD began supporting Operation Desert Fox, the four-day American-British military campaign against Iraqi military and weapons-related facilities. The operation was initiated after Iraq suspended cooperation with United Nations weapons inspectors. BELLEAU WOOD served as a staging platform for Combat Search and Rescue operations in the event that American or coalition aircraft were shot down during the air campaign.

Throughout the operation, BELLEAU WOOD maintained aviation and rescue capabilities while providing logistical support to Marine Corps personnel ashore in Kuwait. The air strikes continued until December 19, after which the ship remained in the region for further operations. Following completion of her Middle East assignment, BELLEAU WOOD began the return passage toward the western Pacific and arrived back in Japan in March 1999.

On April 2, 1999, Captain Thomas A. Parker relieved Captain Ward L. Harris Jr. as commanding officer. During the following months, BELLEAU WOOD resumed operations from Sasebo, including a training period from July 26 to August 26. In September, however, the ship was ordered to support the international response to the crisis in East Timor, where violence had followed the August 30 referendum on independence from Indonesia.

On September 14, 1999, BELLEAU WOOD departed Sasebo for operations in the South Pacific in support of the Australian-led International Force East Timor (INTERFET). The multinational force had been authorized by the United Nations to restore security in East Timor following attacks by pro-Indonesian militias and the displacement of large numbers of civilians.

BELLEAU WOOD arrived in the operating area off East Timor and provided aviation and logistical support for the multinational force. Her embarked Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 conducted transport missions involving troops, equipment and supplies. Beginning in early October, the helicopters supported movements between ships, staging areas and locations ashore where damaged infrastructure limited the movement of personnel and cargo.

On October 7, 1999, BELLEAU WOOD relieved USS MOBILE BAY (CG 53) as the American naval unit responsible for coordinating U.S. support to the international operation. The ship's aviation and command facilities were used to support the continuing arrival and deployment of peacekeeping personnel and supplies. BELLEAU WOOD also participated in humanitarian activities associated with the multinational effort.

BELLEAU WOOD remained in the East Timor operating area during October before completing her assignment in early November. She returned to Sasebo on November 8, 1999, after nearly two months of operations in the South Pacific.

During the first months of 2000, BELLEAU WOOD continued her forward-deployed schedule. From February 8 to April 1, she conducted operations in the western Pacific, including activities in the Singapore area. On April 15, the ship began a Restricted Availability at Sasebo, which continued until June 30. The work included maintenance and preparations for an exchange of hulls and crews with USS ESSEX (LHD 2).

The exchange was part of the Navy's plan to replace BELLEAU WOOD as the permanently forward-deployed amphibious assault ship in Japan without requiring the relocation of the families of the crews already stationed there. Under the arrangement, BELLEAU WOOD's Sasebo-based crew would transfer to USS ESSEX, while the San Diego-based crew of USS ESSEX would assume responsibility for BELLEAU WOOD and return her to the United States.

Preparations for the exchange began on July 1, 2000. On July 13, USS ESSEX arrived at Sasebo, and the crews began transferring equipment, records and personal belongings between the two ships. On July 26, the official exchange of command and crews took place. Captain Thomas A. Parker transferred from BELLEAU WOOD to USS ESSEX, while Captain Robert J. Gilman assumed command of BELLEAU WOOD.

On August 11, 2000, BELLEAU WOOD departed Sasebo for her new homeport at San Diego. During the return voyage, she conducted operations in Korean waters and completed a maintenance availability at Guam. The ship also visited Saipan and Pearl Harbor during the transpacific transit. On October 13, BELLEAU WOOD arrived at Naval Station San Diego, ending eight years of forward-deployed service in Japan.

Following her return to the United States, BELLEAU WOOD entered a maintenance and training cycle to prepare for further service with the Pacific Fleet. On January 17, 2001, she began a five-month Drydocking Planned Maintenance Availability. The maintenance program included installation of a fifth air-conditioning system, improvements to the ship's collection, holding and transfer systems, and modernization of combat systems, communications and intelligence equipment.

The availability continued until June 16, 2001, after which BELLEAU WOOD resumed sea trials and operational training. During the second half of the year, she conducted amphibious exercises, aviation training and readiness evaluations. On November 19, Captain Craig R. Solem relieved Captain Robert J. Gilman as commanding officer.

On June 15, 2002, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for a deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Amphibious Ready Group included USS DENVER (LPD 9) and USS MOUNT VERNON (LSD 39), with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked. The aviation combat element included Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161.

The Amphibious Ready Group arrived at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on June 21, 2002, for a port visit lasting until June 25. The ships subsequently continued westward across the Pacific, conducting training and readiness activities during the transit. On July 19, BELLEAU WOOD and the accompanying ships arrived at Singapore for a scheduled port visit that continued until July 23.

After leaving Singapore, the Amphibious Ready Group proceeded toward the Middle East and entered the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. During August, elements of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in Exercise Infinite Moonlight 02 in Jordan. The exercise began on August 12 and involved combined training with Jordanian forces, including amphibious and ground operations. BELLEAU WOOD provided aviation, transportation and logistical support for the embarked Marines.

Following the Jordanian exercise, BELLEAU WOOD continued operations in the Arabian Gulf region. During September and October, elements of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit participated in Exercise Eager Mace 03 in Kuwait, conducting combined training with Kuwaiti forces. The training included amphibious landing operations, tactical exercises and logistical support activities.

During October 2002, BELLEAU WOOD also participated in humanitarian assistance operations off Djibouti. The ship provided aviation and logistical support for relief activities in the region. The deployment continued into November, when the Amphibious Ready Group conducted humanitarian assistance operations off East Timor. These activities involved transportation and logistical support for relief and stabilization efforts in the territory. Following completion of her assigned operations, BELLEAU WOOD began the return transit across the Pacific. The official deployment records give December 14, 2002, as the end of the deployment, while other descriptions place the return at San Diego on December 15.

On January 22, 2003, BELLEAU WOOD entered National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego for a Complex Overhaul. The availability involved extensive maintenance of the propulsion plant, engineering systems, hull, aviation facilities and amphibious equipment. On March 11, she entered dry dock for underwater hull work, inspections and repairs. The ship remained in dry dock until July 10, after which the remaining maintenance and modernization work continued alongside. On May 30, 2003, Captain Earl L. Gay relieved Captain Craig R. Solem as commanding officer. The overhaul continued through the summer and was completed on October 8, 2003. BELLEAU WOOD subsequently underwent sea trials and operational training in preparation for another deployment.

On November 19, 2003, Brigadier General Joseph V. Medina of the U.S. Marine Corps assumed command of the newly established Expeditionary Strike Group Three during a ceremony aboard BELLEAU WOOD in San Diego. The new command arrangement placed a Marine Corps general officer in charge of a naval strike group that included amphibious ships, surface combatants and a submarine. BELLEAU WOOD was designated as the group's flagship.

Expeditionary Strike Group Three was organized around BELLEAU WOOD, USS DENVER, USS COMSTOCK (LSD 45), USS MOBILE BAY, USS HOPPER (DDG 70), USS PREBLE (DDG 88) and USS CHARLOTTE (SSN 766). The force was accompanied by the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, including Battalion Landing Team 1/4, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 166 (Reinforced) and Marine Service Support Group 11.

During the opening months of 2004, BELLEAU WOOD conducted training and readiness exercises with the newly organized Expeditionary Strike Group. The program included shipboard aviation qualifications, amphibious operations, communications exercises and tactical training with the surface combatants assigned to the group. During April, the ships participated in a Composite Training Unit Exercise intended to prepare the group for its planned deployment.

On May 27, 2004, BELLEAU WOOD departed San Diego for her final overseas deployment, accompanied by USS DENVER and USS COMSTOCK. The deployment was conducted under the Navy's Fleet Response Plan and began earlier than originally scheduled. More than 5,000 sailors and Marines were assigned to the entire Expeditionary Strike Group. The remaining surface combatants of the group departed separately. USS MOBILE BAY and USS PREBLE departed San Diego on June 17, 2004, to join the deployed force, while USS HOPPER and USS CHARLOTTE were also assigned to the group during the deployment.

Following the transit across the Pacific and Indian oceans, BELLEAU WOOD, USS DENVER and USS COMSTOCK arrived in the Arabian Gulf in late June 2004. On July 2, Expeditionary Strike Group Three assumed responsibility for maritime security operations in the northern Arabian Gulf as Task Force 58. The mission included surveillance, maritime interdiction and protection of shipping and important maritime infrastructure.

The Amphibious Ready Group also began disembarking more than 2,000 Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit for operations ashore in Iraq. The Marines were deployed to support American and coalition security operations during the continuing insurgency following the overthrow of the Iraqi government in 2003. On July 5, 2004, two AV-8B Harrier II aircraft from Marine Attack Squadron 214, Detachment B, operating as part of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 166 (Reinforced), launched from BELLEAU WOOD to conduct close air support missions over Iraq. The flights were the first combat support missions conducted by the ship's aviation combat element during the deployment.

During July and August 2004, BELLEAU WOOD continued operations in the northern Arabian Gulf, serving as the command platform for maritime security missions. The ship's activities included coordination with coalition naval forces, Coast Guard units and patrol craft assigned to the protection of shipping routes and offshore oil facilities.

The maritime security mission included protection of the Al Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya oil terminals off the Iraqi coast. The terminals were important to Iraq's petroleum exports and had been subject to attacks by insurgent forces. BELLEAU WOOD and the associated naval units supported surveillance, patrols and security operations intended to prevent further attacks and maintain access to the facilities.

During the deployment, BELLEAU WOOD also provided aviation and logistical support to coalition forces operating ashore. The embarked helicopters conducted transportation and resupply missions, while the ship's command facilities supported the coordination of operations by units of the Expeditionary Strike Group and other forces assigned to Task Force 58.

On September 10, 2004, a change in command arrangements was carried out in the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of operations as the Expeditionary Strike Group led by USS ESSEX assumed responsibilities from the BELLEAU WOOD group. The transition included the transfer of personnel and operational control arrangements associated with the ongoing maritime security mission.

On September 14, 2004, BELLEAU WOOD, USS DENVER and USS COMSTOCK departed the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of operations and began their return passage across the Indian Ocean. After proceeding through the Strait of Malacca, BELLEAU WOOD arrived at Singapore on September 22 for a scheduled port visit. Following the Singapore visit, BELLEAU WOOD continued eastward through the western Pacific. During October, the ship conducted additional training and preparations for returning to the United States. On October 14, she arrived at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, for a final port visit before crossing the eastern Pacific.

On October 24, 2004, BELLEAU WOOD returned to Naval Station San Diego following completion of her final overseas deployment. The ship had spent nearly five months away from her homeport, conducting maritime security operations in the Arabian Gulf and supporting the deployment of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit to Iraq.

On October 28, 2004, Captain Robert L. Ford relieved Captain Earl L. Gay as commanding officer of BELLEAU WOOD. During the following months, the ship remained at San Diego while preparations were made for her scheduled retirement. The remaining operational activities included maintenance, inspections, equipment inventories and administrative preparations for inactivation. During 2005, BELLEAU WOOD continued the process of removing equipment and supplies and preparing the ship for transfer to the inactive fleet. On October 13, 2005, she was deactivated at Naval Station San Diego, ending her operational service. On October 28, BELLEAU WOOD was formally decommissioned and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register after 27 years of commissioned service. She was the first TARAWA-class amphibious assault ship to be retired.

Following decommissioning, ex-BELLEAU WOOD was transferred to the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The ship remained there until she was selected for use as a target during the multinational Rim of the Pacific exercise RIMPAC 2006. On July 10, 2006, the Military Sealift Command fleet ocean tug USNS NAVAJO (T-ATF 169) began towing ex-BELLEAU WOOD from Pearl Harbor to the designated target area off Hawaii. The former amphibious assault ship was prepared for a Sinking Exercise (SINKEX) involving U.S. and allied naval units participating in RIMPAC.

During the exercise in July 2006, ex-BELLEAU WOOD was attacked by ships and aircraft using various weapons. USS MOBILE BAY fired an RGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missile against the former amphibious ship, while other participating units conducted additional live-fire attacks. Despite receiving multiple weapons impacts, ex-BELLEAU WOOD remained afloat. On July 13, 2006, explosive ordnance disposal personnel detonated demolition charges placed aboard the former ship, causing her to sink in the Pacific Ocean off Kauai, Hawaii.

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Accidents aboard USS BELLEAU WOOD:

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About the Ship's Name, about the Battle of Belleau Wood:

Belleau Wood, near Chateau Thierry, France, was the scene of a battle between the 4th Marine Brigade and elements of three German divisions in June 1918. This was part of the larger Battle of the Aisne, launched on 27 May by Germany in the hopes of defeating French forces near Paris before significant American forces could arrive at the front. The German Southern Army Group broke through the British and French divisions defending Chemin des Dames ridge on the first day of the attack, forcing the defenders across the Aisne and Vesle Rivers. German forces continued their advance, reaching the Marne River on 1 June before the offensive slowed.

Meanwhile, the American Army's 2d Division, with the 4th Marine Brigade attached, was ordered from its training areas north of Paris to a position northwest of Chateau Thierry. Attached to the French XXI Corps, the American troops took up positions astride the Paris-Metz highway on 1 June. The following day, a limited German attack rolled back the French outposts and occupied the towns of Tourcy and Bouresches, including the woods called Bois de Belleau between them, in front of the marine positions. As the French fell back through the marines, an officer advised Marine Corps Capt. Lloyd Williams to withdraw his men. Williams replied: "Retreat, hell! We just got here."

On 3 June, the German infantry advanced toward the 4th Brigade but were driven back by heavy artillery and long-range rifle fire. By the 5th, when it became clear that the Germans had shifted to the tactical defensive, the French corps commander ordered the 4th Brigade to attack Bois de Belleau. The month-long action remembered as the Battle of Belleau Wood began on 6 June with a battalion-level attack on a hill near Torcy. Although the assault companies suffered devastating enfilade fire, Hill 142 was taken after bloody hand-to-hand combat.

The following day, three battalions attacked the woods and Boureches from the southwest. Short on artillery support and hobbled by poor maneuver tactics, the marines again suffered heavy losses as they tried to clear the woods of machinegun nests. By evening, they held the edge of Belleau Wood and had cleared Boureches after desperate street fighting. Reinforced and resupplied, they held the town all night against repeated counterattacks. The day's fighting had cost the marines over 1,000 casualties, more than the Corps had lost in its entire history.

The 4th Brigade continued assaults into Belleau Wood for the next twelve days, fighting an attrition-style battle of platoons and squads in the confined wooded terrain. The advance slowed to a crawl as units were decimated in close combat and the entire brigade was forced to pull out of the fighting to regroup on 18 June. Returning to Belleau Wood on 25 June, the marines launched the final two-battalion assault that drove the last German battalion from its trenches. Early in the morning on the 26th, the tired marines reported "Belleau Wood now U.S. Marine Corps entirely."

Although the operation had cost the 4th Marine Brigade 4,719 casualties, and over 1,000 killed, the marines had proved their courage to both the French and the AEF. Heartened by the American performance, the French awarded the division's infantry brigades, including 4th Marine Brigade, unit citations for "gallant action" and officially renamed the wood Bois de la Brigade Marine.

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USS BELLEAU WOOD Image Gallery:

			Click here for more Photos.

The photo below was taken by William Chiu when BELLEAU WOOD visited Hong Kong on July 28, 1995.

The photos below were taken in the western Pacific by Stefan Karpinski during BELLEAU WOOD's 2002 deployment.

The photos below are US Navy photos and were taken on July 10, 2006, showing the BELLEAU WOOD being towed out of Pearl Harbor, Hi, by the USNS NAVAJO (T-ATF 169). The BELLEAU WOOD was subsequently sunk as a target.

The photos below were taken on July 13, 2006, and show the BELLEAU WOOD being sunk by EOD set off bombs. On July 12, 2006, the ship had already taken Harpoon hits and gunfire from the USS MOBILE BAY (CG 53) but refused to sink. Thanks to Mario Silva-Hernandez for contributing the potos.

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