Search the Site with

General Characteristics

Crew List

Memorabilia

Cruise Books

Ship's History

Accidents aboard the Ship

Patch Gallery

Image Gallery

to end of page

USS Worden (CG 18)

USS WORDEN was the third ship in the LEAHY - class of "double-end" guided missile cruisers and the fourth United States Navy vessel named in honor of Rear Admiral John Lorimer Worden. During the American Civil War, Worden commanded the ironclad MONITOR in her engagement with the Confederate ironclad CSS VIRGINIA at Hampton Roads on March 9, 1862. The battle was the first major engagement between ironclad warships and marked an important development in naval warfare. On June 17, 2000, WORDEN was sunk as a target during RIMPAC 2000 in the Pacific off Hawaii.

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

Crew List:

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

• Click here to view the list.

back to top

go to the end of the page

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

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS WORDEN Cruise Books:

• Commissioning and WestPac Cruise Book 1963-65
• WestPac Cruise Book 1967
• WestPac Cruise Book 1971-73
• WestPac Cruise Book 1977
• WestPac Cruise Book 1979
• WestPac Cruise Book 1987
• WestPac Cruise Book 1992-93

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS WORDEN History:

USS WORDEN was built by Bath Iron Works Corporation at Bath, Maine. Her keel was laid on September 19, 1960, and she was launched on June 2, 1962, sponsored by Mrs. William R. Smedberg III. Following completion of construction, fitting-out, and preliminary trials, WORDEN was commissioned at Boston, Massachusetts, on August 3, 1963, with Captain Scott Lothrop in command. Following commissioning, WORDEN remained at Boston Naval Shipyard for approximately two months of fitting-out, equipment inspections, and initial preparations for sea trials. On October 12, 1963, she departed Boston for Bermuda, where the crew conducted shakedown training and operational evaluations.

After completing the training period, WORDEN proceeded to Hampton Roads, Virginia, and departed Norfolk on October 28 for her new homeport of San Diego, California. She transited the Panama Canal and continued northward along the Pacific coast, arriving at San Diego on November 13, 1963. The ship subsequently conducted sonar measurements and acoustic evaluations in Dabob Bay, Washington, and visited Seattle before returning to southern California. During this period, WORDEN became flagship of her destroyer squadron.

In January 1964, WORDEN conducted a series of Terrier missile firings on the Pacific Missile Range off Point Mugu, California. The exercises were intended to qualify the ship's missile launchers, radar installations, fire-control equipment, and personnel responsible for operating the guided missile systems. Following additional exercises and inspections, WORDEN entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard in March 1964 for a post-shakedown availability. The shipyard work included repairs, modifications, and adjustments identified during her initial trials and training.

The availability was completed in early May, and WORDEN resumed exercises in southern California waters. From May 18 to June 26, she conducted underway training involving engineering readiness, communications, damage control, antisubmarine warfare, and antiaircraft warfare. From July 10-17, 1964, WORDEN participated in her first major fleet exercise, which concentrated on coordinated air-defense operations. The exercise required the ship to detect and track simulated hostile aircraft and exchange tactical information with other units of the Pacific Fleet.

On August 11, 1964, WORDEN departed San Diego for her first deployment to the Western Pacific. The voyage took her across the Pacific with refueling stops at Midway Island and Guam before she arrived at Subic Bay, Philippines, on August 30. WORDEN subsequently joined Seventh Fleet operations in the Western Pacific and South China Sea. The deployment took place shortly after the Gulf of Tonkin incidents, when the United States was increasing its naval presence in Southeast Asia. The ship's assignments included air-defense surveillance, carrier screening, missile-system readiness, and exercises with American naval forces operating in the region. Subic Bay provided a principal logistical center for maintenance and replenishment during the deployment.

During late October and early November 1964, WORDEN visited Yokosuka, Japan. She subsequently returned to Southeast Asian waters and continued Seventh Fleet operations through the end of the year. On January 1, 1965, WORDEN arrived at Hong Kong for a period of rest and recreation. Following the visit, she proceeded to Yokosuka for a short maintenance and replenishment period. WORDEN departed Japan on January 24 and began the return passage across the Pacific. She arrived at San Diego on February 17, 1965, completing her first Western Pacific deployment.

On March 5, 1965, WORDEN entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for a restricted availability lasting approximately three months. The work included maintenance and modifications to electronic and weapons equipment. The ship returned to San Diego on June 2 for evaluations of a newly installed radar system. During the following months, she continued operating along the California coast, conducting radar tests, missile-system evaluations, and operational training. From November 18-24, 1965, WORDEN participated in Exercise Range Bush off southern California. The exercise involved Pacific Fleet units conducting coordinated operations, including air-defense, communications, and tactical maneuvering.

During December, WORDEN completed preparations for another Western Pacific deployment as American carrier operations against targets in North Vietnam continued expanding. On January 7, 1966, WORDEN departed San Diego for the Western Pacific. She crossed the Pacific via Pearl Harbor and Guam and arrived at Subic Bay on January 30. The following day, WORDEN departed the Philippines for the Gulf of Tonkin, where she joined American naval forces supporting the continuing air campaign against North Vietnam. On February 4, 1966, WORDEN assumed Tomcat radar picket duties west of Hainan Island. These assignments involved identifying and tracking aircraft operating over the Gulf of Tonkin and maintaining communications with carrier aircraft returning from combat missions. The ship's radar and communications systems were used to develop and maintain the recognized air picture, assist in aircraft identification, and provide information to carrier air-control personnel.

Following this operational period, WORDEN proceeded to Sasebo, Japan, for an eight-day port visit and maintenance period. She departed Sasebo on March 1 and returned to the Gulf of Tonkin for plane-guard and escort duties with the aircraft carrier USS RANGER (CVA 61). The assignment required WORDEN to operate near the carrier during flight operations while maintaining air-defense readiness and remaining available to assist aircraft in distress. On March 19, 1966, WORDEN embarked a helicopter detachment to support search and rescue operations. The following day, a helicopter operating from WORDEN recovered the pilot of a downed F-4 Phantom II from the sea approximately three miles from the North Vietnamese coast. North Vietnamese boats were approaching the pilot's position when the helicopter completed the rescue. The operation demonstrated the importance of maintaining rescue helicopters and radar-equipped surface combatants near the areas in which American aircraft conducted combat missions.

On May 23, WORDEN participated in another rescue of a downed American aviator. Search and rescue assignments remained an important part of the ship's operations in the Gulf of Tonkin. During the deployment, WORDEN also conducted carrier screening, radar surveillance, and air-defense support while maintaining readiness against possible air and surface threats. The ship continued operations in the Gulf of Tonkin until June 17, 1966, when she was relieved of her commitments and proceeded to Yokosuka for maintenance and preparations for the return voyage. WORDEN arrived at San Diego on July 10, 1966. During the following months, she participated in weapons testing and training along the California coast.

From September 11 to October 21, WORDEN conducted a series of missile firings on the Pacific Missile Range off Point Mugu as part of a guided missile evaluation project. These activities involved testing the performance of her weapons and associated radar and fire-control systems. During the remainder of 1966, WORDEN continued training and preparing for further operational assignments. In January 1967, WORDEN participated in additional missile testing. During February, she remained at San Diego for maintenance, crew training, and preparations for another deployment. On March 13, 1967, WORDEN participated in a Composite Training Unit Exercise before returning to San Diego.

On April 8, 1967, WORDEN departed San Diego for a six-month Western Pacific deployment. She proceeded toward Japan via Pearl Harbor and arrived at Yokosuka on April 26. During the opening days of May, WORDEN continued toward Southeast Asia, visiting the Okinawa missile range before proceeding to Subic Bay. On May 14, 1967, WORDEN reached Da Nang, South Vietnam, where she received instructions for search and rescue assignments in the Gulf of Tonkin. She subsequently relieved the guided missile frigate USS DAHLGREN (DLG 12) on the northern search and rescue station.

During the following months, WORDEN operated on search and rescue stations off the Vietnamese coast, supporting American carrier aircraft conducting combat missions against targets in North Vietnam. The ship's Combat Information Center maintained surveillance of aircraft movements, coordinated tactical communications, and assisted in directing helicopters and supporting aircraft toward reported locations of downed aviators. The deployment included operational periods at sea interspersed with maintenance, replenishment, and port visits to Subic Bay, Hong Kong, Sasebo, and Yokosuka.

During a passage from Hong Kong toward Subic Bay, WORDEN encountered a small dugout canoe carrying three Philippine nationals who had been adrift for three days. WORDEN rescued the three men and provided assistance aboard the ship. The incident was one of several humanitarian activities undertaken during her service in the Western Pacific.

On August 13, 1967, WORDEN was involved in a harbor accident at Hong Kong when a Greek merchant vessel lost control and collided with her starboard side. The collision caused minor damage to WORDEN. Following the incident, the cruiser resumed her operational schedule and continued search and rescue duties in the Gulf of Tonkin. On September 14, 1967, WORDEN departed her final search and rescue station of the deployment and proceeded toward Japan via Subic Bay. She departed Yokosuka on September 23 and crossed the Pacific via Pearl Harbor, arriving at San Diego on October 6, 1967.

During the remainder of the year, WORDEN conducted maintenance and local training. Her activities included a dependents' cruise, operational exercises, and the unloading of ammunition at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach. In January 1968, WORDEN began preparations for her first major overhaul since commissioning. On January 9, she departed San Diego for San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard, where she entered drydock. The overhaul included maintenance of the propulsion machinery, weapons systems, electronic equipment, and shipboard facilities. Major work was completed during April, and sea trials began on May 6. The overhaul was formally completed on May 13, 1968. WORDEN returned to San Diego two days later and resumed training and evaluations in preparation for another Western Pacific deployment.

On July 1, WORDEN began a six-week refresher training program. The exercises included navigation, engineering readiness, damage control, antisubmarine warfare, air-defense coordination, and weapons-system operation. Following completion of refresher training on August 16, WORDEN continued preparations for deployment. During September, she conducted missile firings and antisubmarine warfare exercises. From October 1-10, 1968, WORDEN participated in Exercise Beat Cadence, which simulated the organization and operational procedures used by American naval forces in the Gulf of Tonkin.

After completing a tender availability and final preparations, WORDEN departed San Diego for another Western Pacific deployment. She arrived at Subic Bay on November 22, 1968, following the passage across the Pacific via Pearl Harbor. On November 25, shortly after departing Subic Bay, WORDEN assisted during an emergency involving a Navy helicopter that had ditched near the approaches to the harbor. Nine Navy personnel were aboard the helicopter, and all were rescued. The aircraft was subsequently towed to a nearby beach.

WORDEN then proceeded toward Da Nang to receive search and rescue briefings and participate in exercises involving simulated attacks by hostile patrol boats. The ship assumed duties as commander of the task unit operating on the northern search and rescue station in the Gulf of Tonkin. On December 5, WORDEN shifted to the southern search and rescue station, where she continued surveillance and rescue-support operations until December 29. On that date, she was relieved by the guided missile frigate USS COONTZ (DLG 9). WORDEN then proceeded toward Japan via Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and Sasebo.

During January 1969, WORDEN completed maintenance and replenishment at Western Pacific ports before returning to the Gulf of Tonkin. On January 25, she resumed operations on the northern search and rescue station near Da Nang. The ship remained on station until February 18, when she departed for Subic Bay. Following visits to Singapore and Hong Kong, WORDEN returned to Vietnamese waters on March 14 for another operational period. She completed this assignment and arrived at Subic Bay on March 23. During these operations, WORDEN continued coordinating aircraft surveillance and search and rescue support for American carrier forces conducting missions over North Vietnam. After completing additional fleet operations, WORDEN departed Subic Bay in April for the return voyage to the United States.

The voyage included visits to Sydney, Australia, from April 14-21, Wellington, New Zealand, from April 25-27, and Pago Pago, American Samoa, on May 1. WORDEN arrived at San Diego on June 8, 1969. During June, she conducted a special guest cruise for the Secretary of the Navy and completed a material inspection.

Throughout July and August, the ship continued local exercises and preparations for an extensive modernization. On September 22, 1969, WORDEN departed San Diego, visited Acapulco, Mexico, and transited the Panama Canal en route to Bath Iron Works in Maine. On November 10, 1969, WORDEN was formally decommissioned at Bath Iron Works to undergo a major antiair warfare modernization. The modernization was part of a Navy-wide program to improve the air-defense capabilities of guided missile frigates. A central element was the installation of the Naval Tactical Data System, which allowed tactical information to be processed and exchanged more effectively among ships and aircraft. The work also included modifications to Terrier missile fire-control equipment, radar installations, communications facilities, and combat information arrangements. Engineering machinery, electrical systems, and supporting equipment underwent extensive maintenance and repair.

During 1970, WORDEN remained at Bath Iron Works while the modernization continued. The ship's crew received technical training and prepared for the integration and testing of the new equipment. On January 16, 1971, WORDEN was recommissioned at Bath Iron Works. Following completion of preparations and initial trials, she departed on February 6 for the return voyage to the Pacific. The voyage included refresher training at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and a visit to Acapulco, Mexico. WORDEN arrived at her new homeport of Long Beach, California, on March 19, 1971.

During the following months, the ship conducted intensive training and evaluations associated with the modernized combat systems. These included missile-control testing, radar evaluations, engineering inspections, and operational readiness exercises. On July 7, 1971, WORDEN entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for an eight-week post-shakedown availability. The work included modifications and repairs identified during the ship's trials and training. During the summer, the crew learned that WORDEN would be assigned permanently to the Seventh Fleet, with Yokosuka, Japan, becoming her new homeport. The forward deployment arrangement allowed WORDEN to remain in the Western Pacific for extended periods and reduced the need for repeated transpacific deployment cycles.

On October 20, 1971, WORDEN departed Long Beach for Japan. She made a brief stop at Pearl Harbor and arrived at Yokosuka on November 11. During the closing weeks of 1971, WORDEN conducted operations in the Sea of Japan and completed preparations for renewed service in Southeast Asian waters. On January 3, 1972, WORDEN departed Yokosuka for operations in the Sea of Japan. She returned on January 17 and began preparing for another assignment in the Gulf of Tonkin. The preparations included visits to Buckner Bay, Okinawa, and Subic Bay, Philippines, where equipment and supplies were prepared for extended operations off Vietnam.

On February 6, 1972, WORDEN departed Subic Bay for the Gulf of Tonkin. She initially operated on the northern search and rescue station, where her radar controllers assisted aircraft operating over North Vietnam. During this assignment, WORDEN maintained air surveillance, coordinated communications, and provided information to aircraft involved in combat and rescue operations. On March 3, 1972, WORDEN's air controllers directed a rescue helicopter toward an F-4 Phantom II crew from the aircraft carrier USS CORAL SEA (CVA 43). Both the pilot and radar intercept officer were recovered.

On March 4, WORDEN was relieved on the northern search and rescue station by the guided missile frigate USS MAHAN (DLG 11). She subsequently moved closer to the North Vietnamese coast off Thanh Hoa to assume duties on the Positive Identification and Radar Advisory Zone, or PIRAZ, station. PIRAZ operations involved the identification and tracking of aircraft, coordination of air movements, and the provision of radar and communications information to American aircraft operating in the Gulf of Tonkin. On March 11, WORDEN was relieved of her PIRAZ duties by the guided missile cruiser USS CHICAGO (CG 11). She subsequently returned to Yokosuka for maintenance and preparations for further operations. During March and April 1972, WORDEN participated in training and exercises off Japan and Okinawa, including the amphibious Exercise Golden Dragon.

The North Vietnamese Easter Offensive, which began on March 30, led to a substantial increase in American naval and air operations. WORDEN was subsequently ordered south to support the expanding American response. In April 1972, WORDEN resumed operations in the Gulf of Tonkin as part of the screening force for USS CORAL SEA. On April 16, 1972, American carrier aircraft conducted major strikes against targets in the Haiphong area. During the operation, WORDEN was accidentally struck by antiradiation missiles fired by American aircraft. The AGM-45 Shrike missiles were designed to home on hostile radar emissions. During the strike, the ship's radar installations were mistakenly engaged, causing explosions and damage aboard WORDEN. One crew member, Petty Officer Third Class Robert Allen Sterling, was killed, and nine other sailors were injured. The wounded personnel were evacuated by helicopter to the amphibious assault ship USS TRIPOLI (LPH 10), where they received medical treatment. Following the incident, WORDEN proceeded to Subic Bay for approximately ten days of repairs. The work included restoring damaged equipment and returning the ship's combat systems to operational condition.

After completing repairs, WORDEN returned to the Gulf of Tonkin and resumed support for American carrier operations. Her assignments included escort duties with the aircraft carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CVA 63). In early May, American naval forces prepared to mine the approaches to major North Vietnamese ports as part of Operation Pocket Money. The mining operation began on May 9 and was accompanied by continuing air strikes and naval surveillance. WORDEN operated on search and rescue stations near the North Vietnamese coast, maintaining radar surveillance and communications with aircraft conducting operations in the region.

On May 16, 1972, the frigate began a restricted availability at Yokosuka. The maintenance period was followed by missile testing and other training at the Okinawa range. On June 20, WORDEN returned to the Gulf of Tonkin and assumed duties on the southern search and rescue station near Cape Mui Ron. During the following month, she continued surveillance, air-control, and rescue-support operations before proceeding to Yokosuka for maintenance and replenishment. On August 9, 1972, WORDEN returned to the Gulf of Tonkin and operated with carrier forces including USS MIDWAY (CVA 41) and USS KITTY HAWK.

During September, the ship continued air-defense and search and rescue assignments associated with the American Linebacker air campaign against North Vietnam. On October 1, WORDEN moved to the middle search and rescue station off Vinh. Six days later, she shifted southward toward Cape Mui Ron and resumed operations on the southern station. On October 17, WORDEN departed the Gulf of Tonkin for Hachinohe, Japan, where she visited from October 21-24 in connection with Navy Day activities at nearby Misawa Air Base. Following the visit, WORDEN proceeded to Yokosuka and entered drydock for replacement of both propellers.

The ship departed Japan on November 14 and returned to the northern search and rescue station in the Gulf of Tonkin on November 18. WORDEN continued operating off Vietnam until December 5, 1972. She subsequently visited Kaohsiung, Taiwan, from December 8-12 and returned to Yokosuka on December 16. During the opening weeks of 1973, WORDEN prepared for operations associated with the implementation of the Paris Peace Accords, which were signed on January 27. The agreements included provisions for the removal of American naval mines from North Vietnamese ports and coastal waters. The United States Navy subsequently began Operation End Sweep, a minesweeping operation conducted principally by helicopters and supporting surface ships.

WORDEN was assigned to Task Force 78 and served as the flagship of Rear Admiral Brian McCauley, the commander responsible for the American minesweeping force. During the operation, WORDEN provided command and communications facilities for the coordination of mine countermeasures activities in waters near Haiphong. The ship also served as a helicopter support platform and provided repair and logistical assistance to minesweeping units operating in the area. Her air-defense radar and weapons systems were used to support the protection of the task force, while the ship maintained surveillance of aircraft and surface contacts near the operational area. WORDEN's responsibilities included coordinating search and rescue resources and providing facilities for helicopters assigned to the minesweeping force.

Operation End Sweep required coordination with North Vietnamese authorities and careful sequencing of mine countermeasures activities around the harbor approaches. After completing her principal task force command and support assignments, WORDEN continued operating on air-defense picket and PIRAZ stations in the Gulf of Tonkin. The ship subsequently returned to more routine Seventh Fleet operations as American combat activities in Vietnam ended and the naval presence in the region was reorganized.

During the latter part of 1973, WORDEN resumed antisubmarine warfare training, engineering readiness exercises, and operations with other American and allied naval units. From November 30 to December 3, 1973, WORDEN conducted antisubmarine warfare exercises with the destroyer USS BAUSELL (DD 845) and the submarine USS DARTER (SS 576). The training involved coordinated submarine detection, tracking, and simulated attack procedures. Following completion of the exercises, WORDEN returned to Yokosuka for a maintenance and holiday period.

From January 14-17, 1974, WORDEN participated in Exercise ASWEX 3-74, also designated Taeknando III, with the Republic of Korea Navy. Following a brief visit to Yokosuka, the ship participated in Exercise Fly-A-Way off Okinawa and returned to her homeport on February 8. On February 25, WORDEN departed Yokosuka for Subic Bay, where she participated in surface-to-air missile exercises. The training formed part of the continued qualification of Seventh Fleet surface combatants following the end of major American combat operations in Vietnam. The ship subsequently visited Keelung, Taiwan, and received maintenance support at Sasebo, Japan.

On March 29, WORDEN departed Sasebo and joined USS MIDWAY for operations in the Sea of Japan. During the assignment, WORDEN participated in a search and rescue exercise with the guided missile destroyer USS PARSONS (DDG 33), simulating an emergency involving a North Korean surface unit. WORDEN returned to Yokosuka on April 7, 1974, and prepared to represent the United States at the Shimoda Black Ship Festival in May.

On May 10, a major earthquake struck the Izu Peninsula, causing damage in the Shimoda area. The scheduled festival was canceled, and WORDEN remained in the Yokosuka area for maintenance and training. On May 25, WORDEN resumed operations with USS MIDWAY and her task group in waters near Japan. The exercises included carrier air operations, antisubmarine warfare training, and coordinated maneuvers with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. On June 4, WORDEN was detached from the carrier group and proceeded to the Okinawa missile range for weapons qualifications before visiting Keelung, Taiwan.

During June and July, WORDEN participated in a midshipman training program and an exchange cruise involving American and Japanese naval personnel. On July 17, the ship departed Yokosuka with USS MIDWAY for operations off northern Japan. Five days later, WORDEN proceeded to Kure for the American-Japanese midshipman exchange program. The cruise concluded with activities at Yokosuka on July 30-31.

During August 1974, WORDEN participated in further operations near northern Japan. In late August and early September, she conducted surveillance activities involving Soviet naval units operating in the northwestern Pacific. Following a visit to Hong Kong, WORDEN returned to Yokosuka on September 25. During October, she conducted exercises with USS MIDWAY and participated in an operational readiness inspection. WORDEN entered drydock at Yokosuka on October 25 for maintenance and repairs. The ship returned to sea for training during November.

In early December, WORDEN visited Manila, Philippines, before joining USS MIDWAY for operations near Okinawa. On December 16, the formation participated in Exercise Command Diamond, a combined Navy and Air Force exercise involving coordinated air operations and defensive procedures. WORDEN returned to Yokosuka on December 19, 1974.

On January 13, 1975, WORDEN departed Yokosuka for Subic Bay while conducting air-defense and antisubmarine warfare exercises with USS MIDWAY. The ship arrived at Subic Bay on January 27 for replenishment and maintenance, participated in Exercise READEX, and returned to Yokosuka on February 19. During March, WORDEN conducted operations off Okinawa and visited Pusan, South Korea, before proceeding toward the Philippines and Thailand.

By April 1975, North Vietnamese forces were advancing rapidly through South Vietnam, and American authorities were preparing for the evacuation of personnel from Saigon. WORDEN was assigned to Seventh Fleet forces supporting Operation Frequent Wind, the final helicopter evacuation of American and Vietnamese personnel from Saigon on April 29-30, 1975. The operation involved American aircraft carriers, amphibious ships, helicopters, and supporting surface combatants operating offshore. WORDEN contributed to the naval force's surveillance and support arrangements during the evacuation. The ship maintained readiness while helicopters transported evacuees from Saigon to American ships in the South China Sea. Following completion of the evacuation, WORDEN resumed her schedule in Southeast Asian waters.

On May 12, 1975, Cambodian forces seized the American merchant ship SS MAYAGUEZ near the Cambodian coast. The incident prompted an American military response involving naval and air forces operating in Southeast Asia. WORDEN's movements were affected by the contingency operation, although the available records do not establish that she participated directly in the fighting around Koh Tang Island on May 15. Following the resolution of the incident, WORDEN proceeded toward Hong Kong and subsequently returned to Yokosuka on May 20.

During June, WORDEN resumed operations with USS MIDWAY, conducting air-defense and other training exercises in Japanese and Philippine waters. On June 30, 1975, WORDEN was officially redesignated from guided missile frigate DLG 18 to guided missile cruiser CG 18 as part of the Navy-wide reclassification of major surface combatants. The change reflected the revised classification of large missile-armed surface ships capable of performing fleet air-defense and other cruiser missions.

During July and August, WORDEN continued exercises with USS MIDWAY and participated in training with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. In October 1975, WORDEN departed Yokosuka for participation in Exercise MIDLINK 75, a multinational naval exercise conducted in the Indian Ocean under the auspices of the Central Treaty Organization. The voyage began with operations in Southeast Asia. After a visit to Subic Bay, WORDEN participated in Exercise Cape Diamond and then joined Exercise Merlion with Singaporean naval and air forces near Malaysia. On October 30, 1975, WORDEN arrived at Colombo, Sri Lanka. She departed on November 3 for Bandar Abbas, Iran, conducting exercises and training during the passage.

During November, the ship also participated in training with Pakistani naval units before arriving at Bandar Abbas for conferences and preparations associated with the multinational exercise. WORDEN departed Bandar Abbas on November 19 to participate in the principal MIDLINK operations. The exercise involved maritime surveillance, air-defense coordination, communications procedures, and other training with naval forces from countries participating in the regional security organization. Following completion of the exercise, WORDEN proceeded toward the Western Pacific via Subic Bay. During the visit to Subic Bay, the ship received Secretary of the Navy J. William Middendorf II. WORDEN returned to Yokosuka on December 19, 1975.

During January 1976, WORDEN conducted operations in the Western Pacific, including visits to Hong Kong, Okinawa, Pusan, and Sasebo. The ship returned to Yokosuka on February 2 and began preparations for an extensive regular overhaul. WORDEN entered drydock on February 20, 1976. The work included maintenance of propulsion machinery, radar and weapons equipment, electrical installations, and supporting systems. The drydock period ended on June 22, and additional repairs and equipment adjustments continued during the following months. The regular overhaul was completed on December 6, 1976.

WORDEN returned to sea on December 13 for independent steaming exercises and engineering evaluations. She returned to Yokosuka on December 17. During the first half of 1977, WORDEN conducted extensive post-overhaul training and inspections in waters near Japan and the Philippines. These activities included engineering readiness exercises, air-defense training, missile qualifications, and operations with Seventh Fleet surface combatants.

On June 18, WORDEN began a series of exercises from Subic Bay, including MULTIPLEX training. Following a visit to Singapore, WORDEN returned to Yokosuka on July 14 and remained there until July 23. The ship subsequently conducted replenishment and missile exercises before arriving at Hong Kong on August 13. WORDEN returned to Yokosuka on September 2 and began preparing for another extended deployment.

On September 27, 1977, WORDEN departed Yokosuka for operations in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. The voyage included a visit to Fremantle, Western Australia, followed by operations in the Indian Ocean and a visit to Bandar Abbas, Iran, from November 9-21. The visit took place during the final years of the Iranian monarchy, when Iran was an important American security partner in the Persian Gulf region. WORDEN subsequently proceeded toward Southeast Asia and visited Singapore from December 5-11. The deployment included training, exercises, and operations intended to maintain the ship's air-defense and antisubmarine warfare capabilities during extended periods away from her homeport. WORDEN arrived at Yokosuka on December 21, 1977.

During January 1978, WORDEN visited Chinhae, South Korea, and subsequently resumed carrier task group operations. On February 13, 1978, WORDEN participated in Exercise READEX 78 with USS MIDWAY and other Seventh Fleet units. The exercise involved simulated hostile surveillance and attacks while the participating ships maneuvered to support an amphibious operation near Okinawa. During March, WORDEN conducted antisubmarine warfare training near Korea and completed inspections before returning to Yokosuka. In April, WORDEN operated with USS MIDWAY and participated in further exercises in Japanese waters.

During May, the cruiser received maintenance support from the destroyer tender USS PRAIRIE (AD 15) and the Yokosuka ship repair facility. On May 30, WORDEN departed for Keelung, Taiwan, returning to Yokosuka on June 9. She subsequently participated in task group operations in the northern Philippine Sea before returning to Yokosuka on June 28. During July and August 1978, WORDEN conducted further exercises in Philippine waters, including missile-system evaluations near Okinawa. On August 12, the ship completed a missile firing exercise and subsequently returned to carrier task group operations. During September, WORDEN visited Chinhae and operated with USS MIDWAY before participating in antisubmarine warfare exercises with the Republic of Korea Navy.

In November, WORDEN participated in Exercise MAULEX 1-79, an amphibious exercise involving American and South Korean naval forces. The ship subsequently visited Hong Kong and Subic Bay before returning to Yokosuka on December 22, 1978.

During 1979, WORDEN continued operating from Yokosuka as a permanently forward-deployed unit of the Seventh Fleet. The year's activities included exercises, maintenance, and operational assignments in the Western Pacific. These operations were documented in the ship's 1979 WestPac cruise book, which includes sections devoted to the voyage, shipboard activities, and events. WORDEN continued conducting air-defense training, missile-system exercises, and antisubmarine warfare operations while supporting the American naval presence in waters surrounding Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The ship also participated in carrier task group operations and maintained her readiness to support regional contingency missions. Throughout the year, Yokosuka remained the ship's homeport and principal maintenance facility.

During the opening months of 1980, WORDEN continued Seventh Fleet operations in the Western Pacific. A change in the permanent forward-deployment arrangements for Pacific Fleet cruisers subsequently resulted in WORDEN being ordered back to Hawaii. USS REEVES (CG 24) was selected to assume the permanently forward-deployed cruiser assignment at Yokosuka, while WORDEN prepared to return to the United States. The change included the administrative and personnel arrangements necessary for the transfer of responsibilities between the two cruisers. On September 3, 1980, WORDEN arrived at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, which became her new homeport after nearly nine years of permanent assignment to Yokosuka.

During the following months, WORDEN conducted local operations and prepared for a major overhaul at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. The overhaul began during the closing months of 1980 and involved extensive maintenance and modernization of the ship's combat systems and engineering machinery. The improvements included modifications to radar and fire-control equipment, tactical data-processing systems, and communications facilities. The ship was also fitted with the Harpoon antiship missile system, providing a longer-range weapon against surface targets, and the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System, intended for short-range defense against aircraft and incoming antiship missiles. Additional work involved improvements to electronic warfare equipment, engineering machinery, electrical installations, and auxiliary systems. The overhaul continued throughout much of 1981, with the work requiring extensive testing and integration of newly installed equipment.

During 1982, WORDEN completed post-overhaul evaluations and resumed training with the Pacific Fleet. The training included missile qualifications, engineering readiness inspections, antisubmarine warfare exercises, and operations with aircraft carrier battle groups. WORDEN subsequently resumed extended deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean during the 1980s. These deployments involved carrier screening, air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance, and exercises with American and allied naval forces operating across the Pacific and Indian Ocean regions.

During 1983 and 1984, WORDEN continued Pacific Fleet assignments, including training and readiness operations associated with the American naval presence in East Asia. The ship's radar and guided missile systems remained central to her role within carrier formations, while the Harpoon and ASROC systems provided capabilities against surface and submarine threats. During 1985 and 1986, WORDEN continued participating in operational training, maintenance, and exercises with Pacific Fleet units. The training included missile-system testing, engineering readiness inspections, communications exercises, and preparations for further overseas deployments.

In early 1987, WORDEN prepared for another Western Pacific deployment. During the deployment, WORDEN operated with the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64). The carrier departed San Diego on April 11, 1987, for operations in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, returning on October 13. Other surface combatants associated with the carrier group included the guided missile cruiser USS FOX (CG 33), the guided missile cruiser USS VALLEY FORGE (CG 50), the guided missile frigate USS CROMMELIN (FFG 37), the frigates USS COOK (FF 1083) and USS OUELLET (FF 1077), and the fast combat support ship USS CAMDEN (AOE 2).

During the deployment, WORDEN participated in air-defense and surveillance operations intended to protect the carrier formation while aircraft conducted training and routine operational flights. The battle group operated in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean at a time when the Iran-Iraq War was creating increasing concern about the security of international shipping in the Persian Gulf. American naval forces maintained a presence in the Arabian Sea and surrounding waters while monitoring developments associated with the attacks on merchant ships. WORDEN contributed to the battle group's air-defense organization, conducting radar surveillance, tactical communications, and exercises involving simulated air and surface threats.

The deployment included replenishment, maintenance, and training periods associated with operations across the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. Following completion of the deployment in the autumn of 1987, WORDEN returned to Hawaii and resumed Pacific Fleet maintenance and operational training. During the closing years of the 1980s, WORDEN underwent another major modernization at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard under the New Threat Upgrade program.

The NTU modernization was intended to improve the effectiveness of the ship's air-defense systems against advanced aircraft and antiship missiles. The work involved improvements to the air-search radars, missile fire-control equipment, tactical data-processing systems, and the integration of Standard surface-to-air missiles. Additional modifications were made to communications and electronic warfare systems, propulsion machinery, electrical installations, damage-control equipment, and crew accommodations. The modernization required extensive testing and integration of equipment, followed by engineering inspections and combat-system evaluations. During 1989, WORDEN remained involved in modernization and readiness preparations, while the Navy continued adjusting its force structure and operational commitments following changes in the international security environment.

At the beginning of January 1990, WORDEN was still undergoing an extended regular overhaul at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. The ship's original command history identified installation of the improved NTU air-defense suite as a principal element of the work. During the early months of 1990, WORDEN completed additional inspections, technical evaluations, and preparations for renewed operational service. On March 26, General Colin L. Powell, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visited WORDEN and met members of the crew.

From April 6-9, the ship conducted a dependents' cruise to Kauai. The following months were devoted to exercises and inspections intended to restore readiness for overseas deployment. The training included refresher exercises, an Operational Propulsion Plant Examination, aviation readiness evaluations, and exercises associated with the requirements of the Middle East Force. During the summer of 1990, the ship continued preparations for deployment while political tensions in the Persian Gulf increased.

On August 2, 1990, Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait, prompting the United States and its coalition partners to deploy substantial military forces to the region under Operation Desert Shield. American naval forces were assigned to protect shipping, enforce United Nations sanctions, and prepare for possible military operations against Iraq. Following completion of a 24-day pre-deployment preparation period, WORDEN departed Pearl Harbor on September 25, 1990, for the Persian Gulf. She sailed in company with the frigate USS MARVIN SHIELDS (FF 1066).

During the passage across the Pacific, the ships visited Subic Bay, Philippines, and Singapore for replenishment and logistical support. WORDEN also conducted exercises and communications training with other American naval units, including the guided missile frigates USS REID (FFG 30) and USS VANDEGRIFT (FFG 48). On October 18, 1990, WORDEN crossed the equator during the passage toward the Middle East. Following completion of the transit through the Indian Ocean and the Strait of Hormuz, WORDEN entered the Persian Gulf and proceeded toward Bahrain.

During the approach to her assigned operating area, WORDEN received ammunition and logistical support from other American naval units, including a missile transfer with the ammunition ship USS FLINT (AE 32). On October 30, 1990, WORDEN anchored at Sitrah, Bahrain, where she completed the operational turnover with the guided missile cruiser USS ENGLAND (CG 22). Following the turnover, WORDEN assumed air-defense responsibilities in the Persian Gulf as part of the American naval force assigned to Operation Desert Shield.

During November and December, WORDEN operated in conjunction with the guided missile cruiser USS BUNKER HILL (CG 52), coordinating air-defense surveillance and tactical information. WORDEN was assigned to northern air-defense picket stations, where her radar systems monitored aircraft operating in the Persian Gulf and maintained communications with other American and coalition forces. These assignments required continuous surveillance and the identification of aircraft entering or operating near areas occupied by coalition naval units. From November 1-7, WORDEN operated on the northern air-defense station in the central Persian Gulf.

On November 8, she began a maintenance period at Mina Salman, Bahrain, receiving repair and logistical support from the destroyer tender USS ACADIA (AD 42). The maintenance period also provided opportunities for the crew to participate in operational briefings and coordination meetings concerning air-defense procedures.

American and coalition naval forces were preparing for possible hostilities with Iraq, and the coordination of aircraft identification and weapons-release procedures was a central requirement of the developing air-defense organization. From November 16-23, WORDEN resumed operations on the northern air-defense station. During this period, she participated in Exercise Imminent Thunder, conducted from November 17-21 as part of the preparation of coalition forces for possible military operations. The exercise included amphibious operations by Marine forces approximately 70 nautical miles south of the Kuwaiti border.

WORDEN supported the exercise by controlling combat air patrol aircraft and conducting air-defense and electronic warfare surveillance. The exercise provided training in the coordination of naval, air, and amphibious forces operating near the potential combat area. Following completion of the exercise, WORDEN continued surveillance duties and made a brief logistical stop at Sitrah before resuming operations.

In early December 1990, WORDEN participated in further coordination of air-defense procedures with USS BUNKER HILL. The discussions involved American and coalition personnel, including representatives of the Canadian and Royal Navies and air-control specialists from other participating services. The purpose was to improve coordination of aircraft identification, combat air patrol operations, and surface-to-air missile procedures within the multinational naval force. From December 2-6, WORDEN visited Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Following the visit, she returned to the northern air-defense station and conducted patrols from December 8-15. WORDEN subsequently proceeded to Abu Dhabi, where she remained from December 17-19. After completing the port visit, she resumed patrols on the northern air-defense station from December 21-29. During the closing days of 1990, WORDEN visited Mina Salman, Bahrain, for replenishment and maintenance before returning to operational duties.

On January 17, 1991, coalition forces began Operation Desert Storm, launching a major air campaign against Iraqi military targets. During the campaign, WORDEN continued her air-defense assignments in the Persian Gulf. Her radar and missile systems formed part of the defensive organization established to protect American and coalition naval units against possible Iraqi air and missile attacks. WORDEN served as an Anti-Air Warfare Commander and radar picket, coordinating air surveillance and supporting aircraft identification in the northern Persian Gulf. The ship's position allowed her to monitor air activity near the operating areas of coalition naval forces while maintaining communications with other surface combatants and aircraft-control organizations. During the campaign, WORDEN conducted combat patrols and remained prepared to respond to potential threats from Iraqi aircraft and missiles.

These operations took place in an environment where coalition naval forces were also required to consider the danger from naval mines and Iraqi surface units operating near Kuwait. The coalition ground offensive began on February 24, 1991. Following the rapid advance of coalition forces and the withdrawal of Iraqi troops from Kuwait, major offensive operations were suspended on February 28. WORDEN continued supporting American naval operations during the final phase of the campaign and the subsequent transition to maritime security and surveillance activities. Following completion of her Persian Gulf assignment, WORDEN departed the region and began the return voyage toward the Western Pacific and Hawaii.

The deployment qualified the ship for campaign and service awards associated with Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, including the Southwest Asia Service Medal and the Kuwait Liberation Medals. Following her return to Pearl Harbor in 1991, WORDEN underwent maintenance, inspections, and operational training. The ship continued serving with the Pacific Fleet during a period of changes in American naval strategy following the end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

During the remainder of 1991, WORDEN participated in exercises intended to maintain readiness for further overseas operations. These included engineering inspections, missile-system evaluations, air-defense training, and operations with other Pacific Fleet units. During the first half of 1992, WORDEN continued training and preparing for another extended deployment to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf. The deployment took place during the continuing enforcement of United Nations sanctions against Iraq and the establishment of new arrangements for monitoring Iraqi military activity.

In October 1992, WORDEN began another overseas deployment that would take her to the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf. During the deployment, WORDEN participated in surveillance and air-defense assignments associated with Operation Southern Watch. The operation had begun in August 1992 to enforce restrictions on Iraqi military flights south of the 32nd parallel. American, British, and French aircraft conducted patrols over southern Iraq while supporting naval units maintained surveillance and defensive capabilities in the Persian Gulf.

WORDEN operated as a Positive Identification and Radar Advisory Zone ship, maintaining radar coverage and coordinating the identification and tracking of aircraft operating in the region. Her responsibilities included exchanging tactical information with aircraft and other naval units and contributing to the air-surveillance organization supporting Southern Watch. The ship's NTU-modernized combat systems provided the ability to detect and track air targets at extended ranges and coordinate defensive procedures.

During the latter part of 1992, WORDEN continued operations in the Persian Gulf while coalition forces monitored Iraqi compliance with United Nations resolutions. Tensions increased during the closing weeks of the year as disputes arose concerning Iraqi military activities and restrictions on international inspections and aircraft operations. During January 1993, coalition forces conducted additional military operations in response to Iraqi actions. These included air strikes against Iraqi air-defense facilities and the launching of cruise missiles against targets associated with Iraq's military capabilities.

WORDEN continued her air-surveillance and radar advisory assignments during the period. Her presence in the Persian Gulf formed part of the wider naval organization supporting coalition operations. Following completion of her final Persian Gulf assignments, WORDEN returned through the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific toward Pearl Harbor.

During the remainder of 1993, the ship underwent maintenance and completed preparations for decommissioning. The Navy was reducing the number of older steam-powered guided missile cruisers in active service following the end of the Cold War. Although WORDEN had received extensive modernizations during her career, the Navy was replacing older surface combatants with newer ships equipped with gas-turbine propulsion, advanced radar systems, and vertical launching systems. During her final months in commission, the crew removed ammunition and equipment, secured shipboard systems, completed administrative requirements, and prepared the ship for transfer to inactive status.

On October 1, 1993, USS WORDEN was decommissioned at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on the same date. Her retirement ended more than thirty years of naval service. During her commissioned service, WORDEN earned nine campaign stars for Vietnam service, two Combat Action Ribbons, a Navy Unit Commendation, three Meritorious Unit Commendations, and two Humanitarian Service Medals. Her other decorations included three Battle Efficiency Awards, the Navy Expeditionary Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal, and the Kuwait Liberation Medals.

Following decommissioning, the former WORDEN was placed in inactive status at the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility at Pearl Harbor. She remained there for several years while awaiting final disposition. The former cruiser was subsequently selected for use as a target during Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2000, a major multinational naval exercise conducted in Hawaiian waters. Preparations were made to use WORDEN in a sinking exercise involving American and allied naval forces conducting weapons training against a large surface combatant.

On June 4, 2000, the former WORDEN was photographed at the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility in Pearl Harbor with a prominent red stripe painted on her hull, indicating her status as a target ship. On June 17, 2000, the former USS WORDEN was sunk as a target during RIMPAC 2000 in the Pacific Ocean north of Kauai, Hawaii. The ship sank at position 22° 57.1' North, 160° 00.2' West, in water approximately 2,560 fathoms, or 4,682 meters, deep.

back to top

go to the end of the page

Accidents aboard USS WORDEN:

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS WORDEN Patch Gallery:

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS WORDEN Image Gallery:

The photos below were taken by Joseph DeMarco and show the WORDEN during the Pearl Harbor Days 45th Anniversary. WORDEN was the Flag Ship for ComNavSurfGroup Midpac at the time and was asked to participate in the ceremonies.

The photo below is an official US Navy photo taken on June 4, 2000. It shows the WORDEN (center, with the red stripe on the hull) laid up at the Pearl Harbor Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility. 13 days later, the WORDEN was sunk as a target off the north coast of Kauai, Hawaii.

back to top

Back to Cruisers list.

Back to ships list.

Back to selection page.

Back to 1^st page.