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USS Sterett (CG 31)

USS STERETT was the sixth ship in the BELKNAP-class of guided missile cruisers and the third U.S. Navy ship named in honor of Master Commandant Andrew Sterett, an American naval officer who served during the Quasi-War with France and the First Barbary War. Decommissioned on March 24, 1994, the STERETT spent the following years laid-up in Suisun Bay, California, as part of the Reserve Fleet until sold to International Shipbreaking Corp., Brownsville, Tx., for scrapping in 2005.

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS STERETT. 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 STERETT memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

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USS STERETT Cruise Books:

• WestPac Cruise Book 1977
• Central America Cruise Book 1993

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History of USS STERETT:

USS STERETT's keel was laid at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington, on September 25, 1962. She was launched on June 30, 1964, sponsored by Mrs. Phyllis Pratt Nitze, wife of Secretary of the Navy Paul H. Nitze. Following construction, fitting-out, and acceptance preparations, STERETT was commissioned at Bremerton on April 8, 1967, with Captain Edward A. Christofferson Jr. in command.

Following commissioning, STERETT remained at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard for further fitting-out activities and acceptance preparations. On June 16, 1967, she was formally delivered to and accepted by the Navy. Assigned to the Pacific Fleet as flagship of Destroyer Squadron Three, she subsequently proceeded to her initial homeport of Long Beach, California.

During the second half of 1967, STERETT conducted shakedown training, weapons qualifications, and operational evaluations off the West Coast. Her first foreign port visit took place at Acapulco, Mexico, from September 10 through 13. The visit included official activities associated with the sister-city relationship between Acapulco and Beverly Hills, California. Further equipment testing and training continued through December, including final acceptance trials conducted from December 18 through 20. On January 8, 1968, STERETT entered Puget Sound Naval Shipyard for a post-shakedown availability. Repairs, modifications, and adjustments to equipment occupied the following months. The work was completed on March 29, when she departed Bremerton for FAST exercises with the fast combat support ship USS CAMDEN (AOE 2).

Following approximately twenty days at Long Beach, STERETT departed on April 23 to participate in Fleet Exercise 2-68, returning on May 1. She subsequently completed nuclear-capable certification and participated in Composite Training Unit Exercise 8-68 while preparing for her first Western Pacific assignment.

On June 19, 1968, STERETT departed Long Beach for the western Pacific, sailing in company with USS MacKENZIE (DD 836). The voyage included stops at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and Midway Island before the ship reached Yokosuka, Japan, on July 5. Yokosuka became STERETT's forward operating base and subsequently her assigned overseas homeport. The decision to station the ship in Japan allowed the Seventh Fleet to maintain a modern guided-missile combatant close to the operating areas off Vietnam. The formal homeport arrangements were completed during July.

On July 19, 1968, STERETT departed Yokosuka for her first operational assignment in the Gulf of Tonkin, proceeding by way of Subic Bay, Philippines. She arrived at Da Nang, South Vietnam, on July 30 for operational briefings and subsequently continued to her assigned station. On July 31, STERETT relieved USS HORNE (DLG 30) as the Positive Identification Radar Advisory Zone (PIRAZ) ship. Operating with the destroyer USS RICH (DD 820) assigned to provide close surface protection, STERETT maintained radar surveillance of aircraft operating over the Gulf of Tonkin and nearby North Vietnamese territory.

PIRAZ duties required continuous monitoring of radar contacts, identification of American and other aircraft, and communication with fighters and command authorities directing air operations. The ship's long-range radar and tactical data-processing equipment allowed her to contribute to the recognized air picture for Seventh Fleet forces operating off Vietnam. STERETT remained on the PIRAZ station until August 5, 1968, when she transferred to search-and-rescue and strike-support assignments. During the following weeks, the guided-missile frigate coordinated rescue operations for American aircraft operating near the North Vietnamese coastline.

On August 25, 1968, her embarked UH-2A Seasprite helicopter was dispatched to assist in the recovery of an A-7 pilot who had ejected near the North Vietnamese coast. Five days later, on August 30, the ship participated in another operation involving the recovery of an A-4 pilot. These missions formed part of the continuous search-and-rescue effort maintained by American naval forces during carrier air operations against North Vietnam. STERETT continued alternating between PIRAZ, search-and-rescue, and strike-support duties during the autumn of 1968. Following a period at Yokosuka, she departed Japan on September 26 in company with the guided-missile cruiser USS PROVIDENCE (CLG 6) and returned to the Gulf of Tonkin by way of Subic Bay and Da Nang.

Her second operational period off Vietnam lasted from October 7 through 29, 1968. Afterward, STERETT visited Hong Kong before returning to Subic Bay to load missiles and other ammunition. On November 14, 1968, STERETT began her third operational period in the Gulf of Tonkin. During this assignment, she continued search-and-rescue and strike-support duties, maintaining communications with carrier aircraft and other surface combatants. A change-of-command ceremony took place at sea on November 29, when Captain Claude L. Tyler relieved Captain Christofferson. STERETT completed the operational period on December 10 and subsequently returned to Japan for maintenance and preparations for further Seventh Fleet operations.

On January 7, 1969, STERETT began her fourth operational period off Vietnam. With Commander, Destroyer Squadron Three, embarked, she served as Tonkin Gulf Search-and-Rescue Coordinator. A helicopter detachment from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Seven supported the ship's rescue responsibilities.

Her fifth operational period began on February 25 and continued until March 12, 1969. Throughout these assignments, STERETT maintained readiness to coordinate the rescue of downed aircrews while supporting the air-defense and surveillance requirements of American naval forces operating in the Gulf of Tonkin. On March 17, 1969, STERETT joined Carrier Division Three for special operations in the Sea of Japan. The deployment reflected continuing security concerns on the Korean Peninsula, where American reconnaissance operations were closely monitored by North Korean forces.

On April 15, 1969, North Korean MiG-21 fighters shot down an unarmed American EC-121 reconnaissance aircraft over international waters in the Sea of Japan. All 31 crew members were killed. The incident prompted an American military response that included reinforcement of naval forces in the region and increased protection for reconnaissance aircraft. On April 16, STERETT was ordered to sea on short notice to serve as flagship of a four-ship search-and-rescue task unit. The assignment continued through April 21 and was followed by further surveillance and screening duties in the Yellow Sea.

From April 27 through May 14, 1969, STERETT provided protection for aircraft conducting Peacetime Aerial Reconnaissance Program missions near the Korean Peninsula. The operations required coordination between American naval surface units and reconnaissance aircraft operating in international airspace. After completing her assignment near Korea, STERETT returned to the Gulf of Tonkin. Her sixth Vietnam operational period began on May 25 and continued until June 19. Additional periods followed from July 21 through August 1 and from August 24 through September 6. These assignments involved PIRAZ, strike-support, and search-and-rescue duties. The ship alternated between operations off Vietnam and visits to regional naval facilities for maintenance, supplies, and crew rest.

On September 11, 1969, STERETT entered a restricted availability at Yokosuka for modifications to her weapons and combat systems. The work included installation of the Ship's Anti-Missile Integrated Defense System, improvements associated with the Standard missile system, and chaff rocket launchers intended to provide additional protection against radar-guided weapons. The availability continued until late October. Following completion of the modifications, STERETT resumed training and operational duties, including another period of protection for American reconnaissance aircraft from December 3 through 20.

During the opening months of 1970, STERETT continued operating between Yokosuka and the Gulf of Tonkin. Her ninth Vietnam operational period lasted from January 14 through February 6. Afterward, she visited Hong Kong from February 10 through 16. On March 17, 1970, STERETT began her tenth operational period off Vietnam, remaining on station until April 17. Her duties again involved air surveillance, fighter coordination, and search-and-rescue support. The eleventh and final Vietnam operational period of her initial forward deployment began on May 6 and continued until May 27, 1970. Following its completion, STERETT visited Keelung, Taiwan, overnight on May 29 and 30 before proceeding to Japan.

From June 4 through 6, 1970, the ship visited Kobe, Japan, allowing crew members to attend the Japan World Exposition, Expo '70. The visit was among the final port calls of her extended Yokosuka assignment. On June 30, 1970, STERETT received a Navy Unit Commendation recognizing her service in the Vietnam operating area between July 1968 and June 1970. On July 29, 1970, STERETT departed Yokosuka for the United States, ending more than two years of forward deployment to Japan. During the return voyage, Captain Jack Hilton relieved Captain Tyler as commanding officer on August 13.

The ship arrived at her new homeport of San Diego, California, on August 15, 1970. Following a leave and maintenance period, she began preparations for her first regular overhaul. On October 15, 1970, STERETT entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for an extensive overhaul. The work included conversion of the propulsion plant to Navy Distillate Fuel, the installation of a third Naval Tactical Data System computer, and improvements to the combat systems. The modernization also included the Anti-Ship Missile Defense 70 system, intended to improve the ship's ability to detect and respond to antiship missile threats. STERETT was among the first guided-missile frigates to receive the system. The overhaul continued until March 23, 1971. Three days later, STERETT returned to San Diego and began post-overhaul trials, refresher training, and equipment evaluations.

During July 1971, STERETT conducted a midshipman training cruise that included visits to San Francisco, California, from July 2 through 5; Vancouver, British Columbia, from July 9 through 13; and Pearl Harbor from July 21 through 25. The remainder of 1971 was devoted to training, exercises, and preparations for another Vietnam deployment. In December, STERETT conducted antisubmarine exercises with the nuclear-powered submarine USS SCULPIN (SSN 590). The training involved ASROC operations and the release of exercise torpedoes from the ship's embarked LAMPS helicopter.

On January 7, 1972, STERETT departed San Diego for her second major Western Pacific deployment, sailing in company with the Seventh Fleet command ship USS BLUE RIDGE (LCC 19) and the guided-missile frigate USS MAHAN (DLG 11). After stops at Pearl Harbor and Guam, STERETT arrived at Subic Bay on January 29. During preparations for combat operations, additional machine guns and specialized electronic equipment were installed to improve the ship's defensive and tactical capabilities.

On February 10, 1972, STERETT relieved the guided-missile cruiser USS CHICAGO (CG 11) as PIRAZ ship in the Gulf of Tonkin. The operational period continued until March 3. On February 21, a STERETT air-intercept controller directed U.S. Air Force fighters during an engagement that resulted in the destruction of a North Vietnamese MiG-21. The operation was recorded as an early successful interception in which a U.S. Navy surface ship directed an Air Force combat air patrol against an enemy fighter.

After completing the first operational period, STERETT proceeded to Subic Bay. On March 6, 1972, Captain Herbert E. Reichert relieved Captain Hilton as commanding officer. STERETT returned to Vietnamese waters on March 21 and resumed PIRAZ duties. The deployment coincided with the North Vietnamese Easter Offensive, which began on March 30 and led to intensified American air and naval operations against North Vietnamese forces and supply routes.

On March 30, STERETT's air-intercept controllers directed American F-4 fighters during engagements involving North Vietnamese MiGs. The ship's radar and communications systems enabled the controllers to track aircraft and provide tactical instructions to the American pilots. During the opening weeks of April, STERETT continued operating in the Gulf of Tonkin while American naval forces increased their support for South Vietnamese forces responding to the North Vietnamese offensive. On April 6, 1972, STERETT participated in a rescue operation involving Commander Mason C. Gilfry, executive officer of Attack Squadron 195, whose aircraft from the carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CVA 63) had been shot down by a surface-to-air missile. The pilot was recovered by a rescue helicopter and transferred aboard STERETT for medical examination before returning to his carrier.

On April 19, 1972, STERETT took part in the naval engagement off Dong Hoi, North Vietnam. During the action, American surface ships encountered attacks by North Vietnamese aircraft while operating near the coast. One of the American ships involved, the destroyer USS HIGBEE (DD 806), was damaged when a North Vietnamese MiG-17 dropped a bomb that struck the destroyer's after gun mount. The attack caused casualties and damage aboard HIGBEE. During the engagement, STERETT fired Terrier surface-to-air missiles against attacking aircraft and was credited with shooting down one North Vietnamese MiG. The cruiser also fired a second missile salvo against another airborne radar contact that was believed at the time to be a possible Styx antiship missile. The identity of the second target was not conclusively established. Although contemporary reports described the engagement as the destruction of a possible antiship missile, the available evidence does not establish with certainty that the contact was a Styx missile. STERETT's participation in the engagement was recognized with the Combat Action Ribbon and a Navy Unit Commendation.

Four days later, on April 23, 1972, STERETT's embarked helicopter participated in a search-and-rescue operation that recovered an American fighter pilot off Dong Hoi. During May, STERETT continued supporting American air operations. On May 9, her helicopter detachment performed duties associated with protecting the naval forces involved in the mining of Haiphong Harbor. The mining operation formed part of Operation Pocket Money, which was conducted alongside the broader Linebacker air campaign intended to restrict North Vietnam's access to military supplies and transportation routes. On May 17, STERETT's controllers supported another rescue operation involving an American naval aviator who had been forced to abandon his aircraft in the Gulf of Tonkin.

STERETT completed her second operational period on May 19 and proceeded to Subic Bay, arriving on May 22. During the port visit, Admiral Bernard A. Clarey, Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet, visited the ship and addressed personnel in recognition of their recent combat operations. On May 29, STERETT began another period of operations off Vietnam. During this phase, she served as a backup air-defense and radar advisory ship in support of the nuclear-powered guided-missile cruiser USS LONG BEACH (CGN 9). Following a visit to Hong Kong, STERETT resumed PIRAZ duties on June 21 and remained in the operating area until July 16.

On July 8, 1972, STERETT's air-intercept controllers directed U.S. Air Force fighters during further successful engagements with North Vietnamese MiGs. The ship's role consisted of radar surveillance, identification of hostile aircraft, and tactical control of the intercepting fighters. After completing her final Vietnam operational period of the deployment, STERETT proceeded to Subic Bay and began the return voyage across the Pacific. She arrived at San Diego on August 8, 1972. During the remainder of 1972, STERETT conducted maintenance, training, and exercises in Southern California waters.

On March 9, 1973, STERETT departed San Diego for her third major Western Pacific deployment. She sailed with a task unit that included USS CAMDEN, the aircraft carrier USS CORAL SEA (CVA 43), and the destroyer escort USS REASONER (DE 1063). The ships stopped at Pearl Harbor before continuing to the Philippines. During the Pacific crossing, STERETT experienced an aviation accident involving her embarked SH-2D Seasprite helicopter. On March 26, 1973, the helicopter departed STERETT to transfer a chaplain between ships for religious services. Shortly after takeoff, approximately 1,000 yards from the cruiser's port side, an engine malfunction occurred and the helicopter crashed into the sea. All three crew members were rescued.

STERETT arrived at Subic Bay on March 25 and completed preparations for operations off Vietnam. The Paris Peace Accords had been signed on January 27, and American military operations in Southeast Asia were being reduced, although U.S. naval forces continued maintaining surveillance and other assignments.

On April 2, STERETT began her first operational period of the deployment in the Gulf of Tonkin. The assignment involved PIRAZ duties, carrier plane-guard responsibilities, air-defense coordination, and exercises with other Seventh Fleet units. The cruiser remained in the operating area until May 30, when she proceeded to Sasebo, Japan, for a port visit and maintenance.

During June, STERETT visited Keelung, Taiwan, from June 15 through 19 before departing for another operational period in the Gulf of Tonkin. The second operational period began on June 19 and continued until July 17. During the assignment, STERETT temporarily left her designated station to avoid an approaching typhoon before resuming PIRAZ duties on July 14. Following a visit to Hong Kong from July 18 through 23, STERETT proceeded to Subic Bay, where she underwent repairs and embarked three midshipmen for a training cruise.

On August 2, 1973, STERETT began her final operational period off Vietnam. She remained in the area until August 16 before departing for Yokosuka and the return voyage to the United States. The cruiser arrived at Pearl Harbor on August 31 to disembark the midshipmen and resumed her voyage the following day. She reached San Diego on September 6, 1973, completing her third major Western Pacific deployment.

During the remainder of 1973, STERETT operated in Southern California waters and prepared for an extended shipyard availability. On February 1, 1974, STERETT entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for an eleven-month regular overhaul. The work involved extensive repairs and modernization of the ship's engineering plant, command-and-control facilities, combat systems, and living spaces. The program included improvements to crew accommodations, equipment reliability, weapons systems, and communications installations. The overhaul was completed on December 19, 1974. During the opening months of 1975, STERETT resumed sea trials, equipment evaluations, refresher training, and operational inspections in preparation for another deployment.

On June 30, 1975, STERETT was redesignated from guided-missile frigate DLG 31 to guided-missile cruiser CG 31 as part of the Navy's fleetwide reclassification of major surface combatants. The change reflected the ship's size and capabilities, particularly her role as a long-range air-defense combatant operating with aircraft carrier groups. Training and preparations continued through the summer and early autumn of 1975.

On October 4, STERETT departed San Diego for another Western Pacific deployment, with Commander, Destroyer Group One, and personnel from Amphibious Squadron Seven embarked. The initial voyage included a stop at Pearl Harbor, where STERETT participated in naval activities associated with the American Bicentennial commemorations. She subsequently proceeded through Guam and assumed duties as flagship for Commander, Task Force 75. During the deployment, STERETT operated throughout the western Pacific, conducting air-defense exercises, tactical training, amphibious support, and operations with Seventh Fleet units.

The cruise included port visits in the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Japan. STERETT alternated between underway periods and maintenance or replenishment stops at regional naval facilities. She returned to San Diego on May 23, 1976, completing an overseas deployment of more than seven months.

During the remainder of 1976, STERETT conducted post-deployment maintenance, training, and inspections. Preparations for another extended Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment continued into early 1977. On February 17, 1977, STERETT departed San Diego for an overseas deployment that included Western Pacific and Indian Ocean operations. She carried an SH-2 Seasprite helicopter detachment from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 33 and participated in RIMPAC 77 exercises during the opening phase of the deployment. On March 11, 1977, STERETT experienced a fatal helicopter accident while conducting exercises with two French naval vessels. During the evening, the embarked helicopter crashed into the sea. Lieutenant Commander Jeffrey Smith was killed in the accident. The other two members of the helicopter crew escaped from the sinking aircraft and were rescued by STERETT.

Following the accident, STERETT continued her assigned overseas operations. The deployment included exercises and surveillance assignments across the western Pacific and Indian Ocean. During May, STERETT operated in the Celebes Sea and subsequently continued toward the Indian Ocean. Her port visits included locations in Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, Mauritius, Kenya, Iran, the Maldives, Singapore, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. These visits formed part of a deployment that extended from the western Pacific into the Indian Ocean and waters associated with the American naval presence in the Middle East. STERETT returned to San Diego on October 6, 1977. During the final portion of the voyage, approximately seventy relatives and friends of crew members embarked in Hawaii for a Tiger Cruise to the ship's homeport.

Following her return, STERETT completed maintenance and training in preparation for further Pacific Fleet operations. During 1978, STERETT participated in local exercises, readiness evaluations, and public events. She visited Portland, Oregon, during the Rose Festival from June 9 through 12 and participated in Seattle Seafair from August 2 through 7.

On September 26, 1978, STERETT departed San Diego for another Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment with the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64). Other ships associated with the battle group included the guided-missile destroyers USS HOEL (DDG 13), USS WADDELL (DDG 24), and USS DECATUR (DDG 31), the frigate USS BRADLEY (FF 1041), and the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS BARB (SSN 596).

During the Pacific crossing, STERETT suffered the loss of a crew member. On October 11, 1978, Seaman Marvin Burkhart was lost at sea. The deployment subsequently continued into the Indian Ocean. American naval forces in the region were monitoring developments associated with increasing political instability in Iran and the broader Middle East. On December 7, 1978, STERETT received orders to proceed toward the Persian Gulf region in connection with contingency planning during the escalating Iranian crisis.

During the opening months of 1979, STERETT continued operations in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea with the USS CONSTELLATION battle group. In March 1979, the ship participated in an accelerated transit westward through the Strait of Malacca following the outbreak of fighting between North and South Yemen. The conflict involved forces in a strategically important area near the entrance to the Red Sea and raised concerns about regional stability and international shipping routes. American naval forces operated in the region during the crisis while monitoring military activity.

STERETT's duties included air-defense surveillance, communications coordination, and escort operations with the deployed battle group. Her service during the period from March 12 through April 19, 1979, was subsequently recognized with a Meritorious Unit Commendation. The cruiser returned to San Diego on May 17, 1979.

Following post-deployment maintenance and preparations, STERETT entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard on July 24, 1979, for a major overhaul. The availability lasted approximately fifteen months and involved extensive repairs, machinery maintenance, equipment modernization, and work on the ship's weapons and electronic systems. The overhaul was completed on October 17, 1980. Two days later, STERETT returned to San Diego and began preparations for the resumption of operational service. During late 1980 and the first half of 1981, STERETT conducted sea trials, refresher training, weapons qualifications, and readiness inspections. These activities were intended to restore the ship's operational capability following the extended shipyard period.

During 1981, the Navy arranged another overseas homeport assignment for STERETT, this time at Subic Bay in the Philippines. The move would return the cruiser to forward-deployed Seventh Fleet service. On July 27, 1981, STERETT departed San Diego for her new homeport. The voyage included a stop at Pearl Harbor for operational briefings and a refueling stop at Guam. STERETT arrived at Subic Bay on August 19, 1981, beginning a forward-deployed assignment that would last almost ten years.

During the following weeks, the ship completed maintenance and preparations for regional operations. Senior Seventh Fleet officers and local officials visited STERETT as she began her new homeport assignment. On September 4, 1981, the Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Thomas B. Hayward, visited STERETT. A further visit by Admiral James D. Watkins, Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet, followed on September 11. Throughout the remaining months of 1981, STERETT conducted local training, tactical exercises, and inspections while integrating into the Seventh Fleet's forward-deployed operational schedule.

During 1982, STERETT participated in several exercises involving American and allied naval forces in East and Southeast Asia. From March 23 through April 1, 1982, she operated with the battle group centered on USS MIDWAY (CV 41) during Exercise Team Spirit 82 off the Korean Peninsula. The exercise involved American and South Korean military forces practicing coordinated operations and the reinforcement of the Korean Peninsula during a major military contingency. During May 1982, STERETT also participated in Exercise Cobra Gold with Thai military forces. The exercise involved joint and combined training in the Southeast Asian region.

On June 10, 1982, STERETT encountered a boat carrying fifteen Vietnamese refugees who had been attacked by pirates and left adrift. The cruiser rescued the refugees and provided food, medical assistance, and temporary accommodation. The rescue was subsequently recognized through the award of the Humanitarian Service Medal.

On June 20, 1982, STERETT was operating with the destroyers USS TURNER JOY (DD 951), USS BENJAMIN STODDERT (DDG 22), and USS LYNDE McCORMICK (DDG 8) when the American formation came under fire from a Vietnamese fishing vessel approximately twenty nautical miles south of Con Son Island. The incident occurred in waters where American naval forces continued to conduct surveillance and maritime operations following the end of direct American involvement in the Vietnam War.

STERETT continued her Seventh Fleet assignments during the remainder of 1982, including exercises, maintenance periods, and operations from Subic Bay. In March 1983, STERETT again participated in Exercise Team Spirit, operating in the Sea of Japan and East China Sea with American and South Korean forces. During July, the cruiser conducted further battle group training. On July 6, she joined the battle group centered on the battleship USS NEW JERSEY (BB 62) for Battle Week 83-2, an exercise that continued through July 11.

On July 20, 1983, STERETT encountered a boat carrying 173 Vietnamese refugees who were adrift off the southern coast of Vietnam. The cruiser rescued the occupants and began providing medical assistance, food, water, and shelter. The following day, July 21, STERETT encountered a second refugee boat carrying another 89 people. The cruiser brought the additional refugees aboard, increasing the total to 262. On July 22, STERETT arrived at Pattaya, Thailand, where the refugees were transferred to Thai authorities and organizations responsible for their care. The rescue operations were subsequently recognized with another Humanitarian Service Medal. The incidents were among the largest refugee rescue operations conducted by STERETT during her forward-deployed service in Southeast Asia.

On September 1, 1983, Korean Air Lines Flight 007, a Boeing 747 passenger aircraft, was shot down by a Soviet fighter after entering Soviet-controlled airspace near Sakhalin Island. All 269 passengers and crew members were killed. The incident led to an international crisis and a search for the aircraft's wreckage and flight recorders in the Sea of Japan.

On September 8, 1983, STERETT departed Subic Bay to serve as flagship for Commander, Task Force 71, during the American search operations. The search area was located in international waters near Moneron Island, west of Sakhalin, where American, Japanese, South Korean, and Soviet ships and aircraft were operating in close proximity. STERETT's command facilities were used to coordinate American naval participation in the search. The operation required continuous monitoring of surface and air activity, communications among participating ships, and coordination of search areas and available equipment.

The presence of Soviet naval units in the same operating area created additional operational and diplomatic complications. American and Soviet ships monitored one another while conducting their respective searches for aircraft wreckage and other material. STERETT remained in the search area for approximately fifty-five days. The ship's assignment ended in early November, and the American search operation was terminated on November 7, 1983. STERETT's service during the operation was recognized with a Meritorious Unit Commendation. The ship also received the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.

Following the search operation, STERETT returned to her regular Seventh Fleet assignments. On December 7, 1983, Admiral James D. Watkins, Chief of Naval Operations, visited the cruiser while she was at sea. On January 5, 1984, STERETT departed Subic Bay for a deployment to the Indian Ocean and Middle East with Battle Group Alfa, centered on USS MIDWAY. The deployment followed increasing American concern about regional security and the continuing Iran-Iraq War. American naval forces maintained carrier battle groups and supporting surface units in the northern Arabian Sea and other Indian Ocean operating areas. Battle Group Alfa relieved a formation centered on USS RANGER (CV 61), which had been operating in the region.

STERETT's responsibilities included air-defense coordination, carrier screening, surveillance, and participation in tactical exercises with the deployed battle group. On February 15, 1984, Captain Jimmy H. McCoy relieved Captain George E. Sullivan III as commanding officer while STERETT was operating in the Indian Ocean. During the deployment, STERETT operated with several American surface combatants, including the destroyer USS O'BRIEN (DD 975), the frigates USS FRANCIS HAMMOND (FF 1067) and USS KIRK (FF 1087), and the guided-missile destroyer USS COCHRANE (DDG 21). The American formation also received logistical support from Military Sealift Command vessels, including USNS HASSAYAMPA (T-AO 145) and USNS NAVASOTA (T-AO 106).

On March 23, 1984, the USS MIDWAY battle group conducted a combined formation exercise with units of the British Royal Navy. The British formation included the guided-missile destroyer HMS GLAMORGAN, frigates HMS AURORA, HMS BRAZEN and HMS ROTHESAY, and several Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships. The exercise involved formation steaming, communications, and coordinated tactical procedures between American and British naval forces operating in the Indian Ocean.

During April, STERETT began the return portion of the deployment. The voyage included a crossing of the equator on April 19 and visits to Singapore and Pattaya, Thailand. STERETT arrived at Subic Bay on May 11, 1984, completing approximately four months of operations associated with the Indian Ocean deployment. During the remainder of 1984, STERETT resumed forward-deployed training, maintenance, and exercises in western Pacific waters. In September, she participated in combined operations with Canadian naval forces following a training availability at Yokosuka.

On March 14, 1985, STERETT began participation in Exercise Team Spirit 85 off the Korean Peninsula. During the exercise, she served as an antiair warfare picket, operating in the East China Sea, Yellow Sea, and Sea of Japan. On March 23, the cruiser was assigned to monitor a Soviet naval task group centered on the aircraft-carrying cruiser NOVOROSSIYSK. The American ship maintained surveillance of the Soviet formation as it operated in western Pacific waters before returning toward the Soviet naval facilities near Vladivostok.

On June 24, 1985, STERETT departed Subic Bay for another Indian Ocean deployment with Battle Group Alfa, again centered on USS MIDWAY. The deployment involved carrier screening, air-defense exercises, maritime surveillance, and tactical training in the Indian Ocean. On August 23, STERETT crossed the equator while proceeding toward Diego Garcia with USS KIRK and the ammunition ship USNS KILAUEA (T-AE 26). The following day, STERETT arrived at Diego Garcia for a five-day maintenance period alongside the destroyer tender USS SIERRA (AD 18). Following completion of the maintenance availability, STERETT departed independently for Southeast Asia on August 30. She stopped at Singapore on September 4 for fuel and subsequently visited Pattaya, Thailand, from September 6 through 10.

STERETT returned to Subic Bay on September 16, 1985, and entered a Selected Restricted Availability. The availability included a period in dry dock from September 26 through November 23. During the shipyard period, Captain John L. Lockett III relieved Captain McCoy as commanding officer on October 10. After completion of the maintenance period, STERETT resumed local training and preparations for further operations with the Seventh Fleet.

During March 1986, STERETT participated in Exercise Team Spirit 86, serving as an antiair warfare picket in the northern Sea of Japan. Following the exercise, the cruiser continued operations in Korean waters and visited Inchon, South Korea, for five days. On June 19, 1986, STERETT departed Inchon and joined operations involving USS NEW JERSEY in the Sea of Japan. During the early morning of June 21, STERETT ran aground near Yeongil Bay, close to Pohang, South Korea, while operating with American naval forces. The grounding occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. local time. The crew conducted damage-control and engineering evaluations while arrangements were made for the ship to proceed to repair facilities. STERETT subsequently returned to Subic Bay, where she entered dry dock on July 2. Repairs associated with the grounding continued until August 15, 1986.

Following completion of the initial repairs, STERETT resumed testing and maintenance. A further Selected Restricted Availability began on September 22 and continued until December 3. The work included preservation, equipment repairs, inspections, and preparations for the ship's return to normal operational service. During the opening months of 1987, STERETT conducted training and readiness evaluations. On January 28, she began a voyage to Pearl Harbor for damage-control training, firefighting exercises, inspections, and combat systems qualifications. The visit represented her first return to Hawaii since beginning her forward-deployed assignment at Subic Bay in 1981.

The training program continued until March 15, 1987, when STERETT completed the operational evaluations and resumed Seventh Fleet duties. On May 18, 1987, STERETT departed Subic Bay with Battle Group Alfa for a deployment that included visits to Australia. The cruiser visited Sydney from June 3 through 7 and Melbourne from June 10 through 14. During the voyage, she conducted exercises and other battle group operations before returning to the western Pacific.

On July 21, 1987, STERETT began another Selected Restricted Availability at Subic Bay. The maintenance period continued until October 13 and included extensive work intended to restore equipment reliability and prepare the cruiser for an upcoming deployment to the Middle East.

On November 8, 1987, STERETT departed for operations in the North Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region with the battle group centered on USS MIDWAY. The deployment took place during the final stages of the Iran-Iraq War, when American naval forces were conducting maritime security operations and providing protection for commercial shipping. Since July 1987, the United States had been conducting Operation Earnest Will, escorting Kuwaiti oil tankers reflagged under the American flag through the Persian Gulf. STERETT operated with American naval forces supporting the regional maritime security mission. Her duties included air-defense surveillance, communications coordination, and tactical operations associated with the deployed battle group.

During this period, American naval forces in the region operated under the command arrangements of Commander, Joint Task Force Middle East. From December 23 through 26, 1987, STERETT visited Muscat, Oman, for a port call and crew rest. On December 28, the cruiser underwent a two-day maintenance availability alongside the destroyer tender USS CAPE COD (AD 43) near Masirah Island, Oman. Following the availability, Rear Admiral Dennis M. Brooks, Commander, Joint Task Force Middle East, embarked aboard STERETT.

During the following weeks, STERETT continued regional operations and coordination of tactical activities associated with American naval forces in the Middle East. On February 15, 1988, the cruiser completed turnover procedures with relieving forces and began the return voyage toward Southeast Asia. She subsequently visited Pattaya, Thailand, from February 23 through 27 and returned to Subic Bay on March 4, 1988, completing approximately four months of deployment to the Middle East.

Later in March, STERETT participated in Exercise Team Spirit 88 off the Korean Peninsula. She operated as the northern antiair warfare picket for Battle Group Alfa and associated amphibious forces. As the exercise concluded, Soviet naval forces, including the aircraft-carrying cruiser NOVOROSSIYSK, departed Vladivostok for operations in the northwestern Pacific. STERETT was assigned to monitor the Soviet formation and maintained surveillance during operations from March 23 through April 6, 1988. During the remainder of 1988, STERETT conducted training, maintenance, and operational readiness activities from Subic Bay. These included tactical exercises and preparations for further multinational operations.

In February 1989, STERETT participated in Exercise Team Spirit 89. The exercise involved American and South Korean forces conducting coordinated maritime and land operations. During the exercise, STERETT served as an advance force commander and antiair warfare commander, coordinating surveillance and defense procedures among participating units. Following the exercise, STERETT visited Hong Kong from March 28 through April 2, 1989, before returning to Subic Bay.

On May 7, 1989, STERETT departed Subic Bay for another visit to Hong Kong, this time in company with the Seventh Fleet command ship USS BLUE RIDGE and the guided-missile frigate USS RODNEY M. DAVIS (FFG 60). The three ships arrived at Hong Kong on May 9 and remained until May 15. They subsequently departed for the People's Republic of China. On May 19, 1989, STERETT, USS BLUE RIDGE, and USS RODNEY M. DAVIS arrived at Shanghai for a three-day official visit. The port call was an important event in the development of naval contacts between the United States and China. It was among the earliest visits by American warships to mainland China since the establishment of the People's Republic in 1949.

The American ships were welcomed by Chinese naval authorities and participated in official receptions, tours, and activities involving the visiting crews. The visit also took place during a period of major political developments in China. Demonstrations were occurring in Shanghai and Beijing, and the port call followed the visit of Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev to China. STERETT departed Shanghai on May 21 and returned toward Subic Bay, arriving on May 26. During the following months, the cruiser resumed Seventh Fleet exercises and training. On July 7, 1989, STERETT rescued 48 Vietnamese refugees from a boat in distress in the South China Sea. The refugees received food, medical assistance, and temporary accommodation aboard the cruiser before arrangements were made for their transfer to appropriate authorities.

On September 2, 1989, STERETT conducted another refugee rescue operation, recovering six men and one woman who had been found adrift in the South China Sea. The seven refugees were subsequently transported to Subic Bay. These incidents continued the ship's record of humanitarian operations involving Vietnamese refugees during her service in Southeast Asia.

During September and October 1989, STERETT participated in several major multinational exercises. The exercises included PACEX 89, involving American naval forces operating in the northern Pacific, and ANNUALEX 89, conducted with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. During ANNUALEX, STERETT operated with Japanese naval units in exercises involving formation maneuvering, air-defense coordination, communications, and tactical procedures. The cruiser subsequently participated in Exercise Valiant Blitz with American and South Korean forces.

On November 23, 1989, STERETT rendezvoused with a battle group centered on USS NEW JERSEY in the Strait of Malacca. The American formation subsequently proceeded toward the northern Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region, where naval forces continued maintaining a presence following the end of the Iran-Iraq War.

During the opening months of 1990, STERETT resumed training and operations in the western Pacific. From January 23 through 28, the cruiser conducted naval gunfire support exercises at the Tabones Range in the South China Sea. The training involved the employment of the ship's 5-inch gun against designated shore targets. During May 1990, STERETT visited Hong Kong for four days beginning May 29. The visit included official activities and the embarkation of twenty-five first-class midshipmen for summer training. During July, STERETT participated in a combined American-Japanese midshipman training program. The program included operations between Kure and Yokosuka, Japan, and the exchange of American and Japanese midshipmen among participating naval vessels.

During the remainder of 1990, STERETT continued Seventh Fleet exercises, equipment evaluations, and training. In November, she participated in a reconnaissance training exercise involving approximately twenty-five Marines from the Third Marine Division. The exercise included the use of small inflatable boats for embarkation and recovery operations. In December, STERETT completed missile training in the South China Sea, including firings of Standard Missile 1 and Standard Missile 2 Extended Range weapons. During the opening months of 1991, STERETT continued operating from Subic Bay. In March, she participated in Exercise Team Spirit 91 with American and South Korean military forces. On May 10, 1991, STERETT departed Subic Bay for the last time as a forward-deployed cruiser, ending almost ten years of homeport assignment in the Philippines. The return voyage included a stop at Guam on May 15 and a visit to Pearl Harbor from May 24 through 28. During the Pacific crossing, the cruiser embarked midshipmen and family members for training and a Tiger Cruise. On June 4, 1991, STERETT arrived at her new and final homeport of San Diego, California. The return marked the conclusion of one of the longest overseas homeport assignments undertaken by a U.S. Navy guided-missile cruiser during the Cold War.

Following her return to the United States, STERETT began preparations for another extensive modernization. On August 12, 1991, the cruiser entered Southwest Marine Shipyard in San Diego for a New Threat Upgrade overhaul. The modernization involved extensive changes to the ship's combat systems, electronic equipment, radar installations, communications systems, and missile fire-control capabilities. The New Threat Upgrade program was intended to improve the ability of older guided-missile cruisers to detect, track, and engage modern aircraft and antiship missiles. STERETT's modifications included improvements to the air-search radar systems and weapons control equipment, allowing more effective employment of Standard Missile 2 Extended Range weapons. The shipyard work also involved repairs to machinery and engineering systems, structural maintenance, and improvements to crew facilities. The availability continued through 1991 and most of 1992. The modernization and associated repairs cost more than $75 million, according to the ship's historical records.

On October 13, 1992, STERETT returned to sea for the first time following the prolonged shipyard period. The formal completion of the overhaul was recorded on October 23, 1992. The ship then began an extensive series of combat systems qualification trials. From October 19 through December 5, STERETT conducted evaluations of her missile systems, radar equipment, tactical data processing, and other combat capabilities. The test program included four successful missile exercises at the Barking Sands missile range in Hawaiian waters.

On December 16, 1992, Commander Gordon O. Dorsey relieved Captain Thomas E. Blount Jr. as commanding officer during a ceremony at San Diego. He became the cruiser's final commanding officer. Following completion of the modernization and qualification program, STERETT resumed training in preparation for another operational deployment. During the first half of 1993, the cruiser conducted local exercises, inspections, and preparations for maritime counter-narcotics operations in the eastern Pacific and Caribbean.

On July 9, 1993, STERETT departed San Diego for what became her final operational deployment. The cruise was conducted in support of American counter-narcotics efforts in waters off Central America and the Caribbean. The deployment involved coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and other federal agencies responsible for detecting and intercepting suspected drug-trafficking vessels. STERETT embarked a Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment as well as a helicopter detachment from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 33. The Coast Guard personnel provided law-enforcement capabilities for maritime inspections and boardings, while the helicopter detachment supported surveillance and other operations associated with the mission.

STERETT's responsibilities included monitoring maritime traffic in designated operating areas, exchanging information with other units, and supporting the interception of vessels suspected of transporting illegal drugs. The cruiser arrived at Naval Station Rodman in the Panama Canal Zone on July 25, 1993, and remained until July 30 for logistical support and preparations for further operations. During August, STERETT continued conducting surveillance and counter-narcotics assignments in the eastern Pacific. From August 19 through 22, the cruiser visited Manta, Ecuador, for a port call and crew rest. The visit also included traditional crossing-the-equator ceremonies associated with the voyage.

Following the port visit, STERETT resumed patrol operations in Central American waters. On September 28, 1993, the cruiser transited the Panama Canal from the Pacific into the Caribbean. The passage marked the first time STERETT had used the canal during the deployment. In Caribbean waters, STERETT continued counter-narcotics surveillance and training. From October 4 through 14, she visited Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for maintenance, logistical support, and operational preparations. Following completion of the Caribbean assignments, STERETT transited the Panama Canal for the second time on October 24, returning to the Pacific.

The cruiser then visited Naval Station Rodman from October 24 through 29 before continuing toward Central America. From November 1 through 3, 1993, STERETT visited Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica, during the final phase of the deployment. Following further operations in the eastern Pacific, the cruiser visited Mazatlan, Mexico, from November 18 through 20. On November 21, STERETT embarked approximately fifty-eight family members and friends for a Tiger Cruise on the final passage from Mazatlan to San Diego. STERETT arrived at San Diego on November 24, 1993, completing her final deployment after 138 days away from homeport, including approximately 100 days underway. The deployment covered 22,581 miles and supported law-enforcement operations associated with the disruption of substantial quantities of illegal drug trafficking.

Following her return, STERETT began preparations for withdrawal from active service. Her final dependent's cruise took place on January 8, 1994, in Southern California waters. On January 10, 1994, the cruiser entered a decommissioning restricted availability. During the following seventy-four days, weapons systems, electronic equipment, spare parts, and reusable components were removed or transferred. The inactivation involved the systematic preparation of machinery and shipboard systems for permanent withdrawal from service. Crew members were gradually reassigned as the remaining personnel completed administrative and technical requirements.

USS STERETT was formally decommissioned at Naval Station San Diego, California, on March 24, 1994, after almost twenty-seven years of commissioned service. The cruiser was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on the same date. Her retirement formed part of the Navy's post-Cold War reduction of older surface combatants as newer Aegis-equipped cruisers and destroyers assumed an increasing share of fleet air-defense responsibilities. On May 12, 1994, the former STERETT was transferred to the Maritime Administration and placed in inactive storage with the National Defense Reserve Fleet at Suisun Bay, near Benicia, California. The former cruiser remained in the reserve fleet for more than a decade while proposals for preservation or alternative disposition were considered.

On July 31, 2005, ex-STERETT was sold to International Shipbreaking Corporation of Brownsville, Texas, for dismantling and recycling. The former guided-missile cruiser was subsequently transferred to Brownsville, where her equipment and structure were progressively dismantled. Scrapping was completed on November 30, 2006.

STERETT earned nine battle stars for her service along the coast of Vietnam.

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About the Ship's Name:

Lieutenant Andrew Sterett was born 27 January 1778 in Baltimore, Maryland. Andrew s father was a successful shipping merchant who had served as a captain during the Revolutionary War. Andrew was the fourth of ten children and despite his sizable inheritance, entered the Navy as a Lieutenant on 25 March 1798 at the age of twenty. He served as Third Lieutenant aboard the newly commissioned frigate CONSTELLATION. He was in command of a gun battery during the undeclared war with France in which the fledgling U. S. Navy scored its first victory on the high seas against the French frigate L INSURGENTE.

By February 1800 Andrew Sterett had been promoted to First Lieutenant and participated in successful battles against French ships. Later that year he assumed his first command, the schooner ENTERPRISE. This was the first US Navy ship to bear that name.

The ENTERPRISE sailed to the Mediterranean with Commodore Richard Dale to quell the Barbary pirates. Andrew Sterett and the ENTERPRISE went up against the pirate warship TRIPOLI in a furious engagement. He successfully fought off three attempts by the pirates to board his crippled ship. ENTERPRISE beat back all attacks and defeated the pirates. He was presented with a sword by President Thomas Jefferson and his crew received an additional month s pay for their heroism. Following several more dispatches to the coast of Tripoli, Sterett and the ENTERPRISE witnessed the return of freedom of the seas in the Mediterranean for American ships. He returned home in March of 1803 and resigned from the Navy in 1805. He pursued a career in the merchant marine and died a premature death in Lima, Peru on 9 January 1807 at the age of thirty.

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USS STERETT Image Gallery:

The photos below were taken by William Chiu when USS STERETT visited Hong Kong...

...in April 1989:

...on December 3, 1990:

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