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USS Normandy (CG 60)

US Navy photo by MC2 Dylan M. Kinee.

USS NORMANDY was the 14^th ship in the TICONDEROGA - class of guided missile cruisers and the first ship in the Navy to bear the name. NORMANDY was named in commemoration of the Allied invasion of Normandy, France, which began on June 6, 1944, and marked the opening of the major Allied ground campaign in Western Europe during World War II. The cruiser held a decommissioning ceremony at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on September 25, 2025, before officially being decommissioned and stricken from the Navy list on September 29.

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Crew List:

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

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USS NORMANDY Cruise Books:

• Arabian Gulf Cruise Book 2005
• World Cruise Book 2015
• Mediterranean and NorLant Cruise Book 2018

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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

The Shield:

The lettering, lion, anchor, and perimeter of the shield are gold. The border beneath the lettering and the crest background are dark blue. These are the color traditionally associated with the Navy. The caltraps symbolize mines and German defenses on the Normandy beaches. The anchor characterizes sea power and strength. The chevron is broken and thrust forward, denoting the assault landing and the "breaking through" the enemy defenses; it is white for honor and integrity, edged with red for valor, sacrifice, and bloodshed.

The Crest:

The pole star signifies the Allied Forces that joined for the Normandy Invasion. It also portrays the four points of the globe, signifying the worldwide mission of the NORMANDY. The gold lion, adopted from the Coat of Arms of Normandy, France, represents the location of the assault and characterizes the courage, strength, and determination of the invasion forces. He grasps an inflamed trident in honor of Neptune, mythological lord of the sea, and code name for the Navy's crucial gunfire support and the delivery of land forces in the Battle of Normandy.

The Motto:

The words, "VANGUARD OF VICTORY," underscore the Battle of Normandy as the spearhead of the Allied defense which turned the tide of war in Europe.

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History of USS NORMANDY:

USS NORMANDY was built by Bath Iron Works at Bath, Maine. Her keel was laid on April 7, 1987, and she was launched on March 19, 1988. Sponsored by Mrs. Gayle Wilson, wife of U.S. Senator Pete Wilson of California, the cruiser was delivered to the Navy on October 18, 1989, and commissioned at Newport, Rhode Island, on December 9, 1989, with Captain Raymond C. Smith in command. Following commissioning, the cruiser joined the U.S. Atlantic Fleet and was assigned to Naval Station New York at Staten Island, New York, as her first homeport. During the opening months of 1990, she conducted shakedown training, engineering evaluations, weapons testing and operational exercises in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.

On May 8, 1990, NORMANDY responded to an emergency involving the guided missile destroyer USS CONYNGHAM (DDG 17), which had suffered a major fire in her forward boiler room while operating off the coast of North Carolina. The fire spread through several shipboard compartments and caused extensive damage to the destroyer's machinery and superstructure. NORMANDY and USS BRISCOE (DD 977) were among the American warships directed to assist the damaged destroyer. NORMANDY dispatched firefighting personnel by small boat to USS CONYNGHAM, where they supported efforts to extinguish the fire and prevent further damage. The fire continued for approximately twenty-three hours and resulted in the death of Lieutenant Commander A. Pope Gordon, Jr., and injuries to eighteen other sailors. The damage ultimately led to the decision to retire USS CONYNGHAM rather than undertake extensive repairs.

Following the emergency, NORMANDY resumed operational training and preparations for her first overseas deployment. During the remainder of 1990, the cruiser conducted air-defense exercises, missile warfare training and coordinated operations with other Atlantic Fleet units. The Navy's operational requirements increased substantially following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990, which prompted the deployment of American and coalition military forces to the Middle East under Operation Desert Shield.

On December 28, 1990, NORMANDY departed the United States for her first overseas deployment as part of the USS AMERICA (CV 66) Battle Group. The formation crossed the Atlantic Ocean and proceeded through the Mediterranean Sea and Suez Canal toward the Red Sea and Persian Gulf. The deployment took place during the final preparations for the coalition campaign intended to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. During Operation Desert Shield, NORMANDY provided air-defense surveillance and protection for American and allied naval forces operating in the Middle East. Her responsibilities included monitoring aircraft movements, coordinating defensive measures and supporting maritime interception operations established to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq.

On January 17, 1991, the multinational coalition began Operation Desert Storm with an extensive air and missile campaign against Iraqi military and government targets. NORMANDY participated in the naval missile campaign, launching Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles against designated Iraqi targets. During the conflict, the cruiser fired a total of twenty-six Tomahawk missiles. The missile strikes were conducted in coordination with carrier-based aircraft, land-based coalition air forces and other naval units operating in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea and Mediterranean. In addition to her strike warfare responsibilities, NORMANDY continued providing air-defense coverage for American and allied ships and supported maritime interdiction operations intended to restrict prohibited shipping traffic to and from Iraq.

During the campaign, NORMANDY also supported mine countermeasures operations as American and coalition naval forces attempted to identify and clear Iraqi mines in the northern Persian Gulf. These operations were particularly important because Iraqi forces had laid extensive minefields near the approaches to Kuwait, creating serious hazards for naval movements and possible amphibious operations.

Following the liberation of Kuwait and the suspension of major offensive operations on February 28, 1991, NORMANDY remained in the region to support postwar maritime security activities. The cruiser subsequently returned through the Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea to the United States, completing her first deployment. Her participation in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm was recognized through the Navy Unit Commendation and campaign awards.

During the remainder of 1991 and throughout 1992, NORMANDY conducted maintenance, inspections and operational training from Naval Station New York. Her activities included engineering assessments, combat systems evaluations, air-defense exercises and coordinated operations with other Atlantic Fleet units. These preparations took place as the Navy's operational priorities shifted from Cold War commitments toward regional crises and multinational security operations.

On August 11, 1993, NORMANDY departed with the USS AMERICA Battle Group for a deployment to the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas. The deployment was conducted during the wars accompanying the breakup of Yugoslavia, when United Nations and NATO forces were engaged in humanitarian assistance, sanctions enforcement and restrictions on military aviation over Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the deployment, NORMANDY operated in the Adriatic Sea and performed air-defense coordination and airspace control duties. The cruiser served as a REDCROWN airspace control platform, maintaining surveillance of aircraft movements and supporting the coordination of military aviation in the region.

Her assignments included support for Operation Provide Promise, the international humanitarian airlift delivering food, medicine and other supplies to civilians affected by the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The operation also included medical evacuations and other assistance activities conducted by American and allied forces. NORMANDY also supported Operation Deny Flight, the NATO mission established to enforce the United Nations no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Her Aegis combat system contributed to the surveillance and coordination of aircraft involved in the operation, while the cruiser maintained air-defense readiness and supported the wider naval presence in the Adriatic.

Another assignment was Operation Sharp Guard, the multinational maritime sanctions enforcement operation conducted by NATO and Western European naval forces. Participating warships monitored and inspected commercial shipping in the Adriatic Sea to enforce the United Nations arms embargo and economic sanctions imposed during the conflicts in the former Yugoslavia. NORMANDY conducted these missions in cooperation with American and allied surface combatants and aircraft. The deployment also included maritime security exercises, replenishment operations and visits to Mediterranean ports. The cruiser subsequently returned to the United States after completing her Adriatic assignments.

During the spring of 1994, NORMANDY was selected to participate in international ceremonies commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy. On May 18, 1994, nine veterans of the Second World War embarked aboard the cruiser for a series of commemorative activities in Britain and France. NORMANDY subsequently visited Portsmouth, United Kingdom, and Le Havre, France, where her crew participated in ceremonies honoring those who had taken part in the invasion of Normandy in June 1944. More than 15,000 people visited the cruiser during the two-week period of commemorative activities.

On May 31, 1994, NORMANDY participated in ceremonies at Slapton Sands, England, attended by U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom Admiral William J. Crowe, Jr. Slapton Sands had been used by American forces to prepare for the amphibious landings in Normandy and had been the scene of the disastrous Exercise Tiger in April 1944. On June 6, 1994, NORMANDY participated in the principal fiftieth-anniversary commemorations along the Normandy coast. President Bill Clinton attended the ceremonies honoring the Allied forces that had landed in France fifty years earlier. The cruiser served as an American naval representative during the commemorations, while members of her crew and embarked veterans participated in memorial services and official activities. Following completion of the anniversary events, NORMANDY returned to New York. On June 27, 1994, the cruiser participated in the closing ceremonies for Naval Station New York at Staten Island. The event marked the closure of the naval installation as part of the Department of Defense base realignment and closure process.

Staten Island Borough President Guy Molinari and Congresswoman Susan Molinari participated in the ceremonies. Following the closure of the base, NORMANDY departed for her new homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, ending nearly four years of assignment to Staten Island. During the remainder of 1994 and the first half of 1995, NORMANDY underwent maintenance, inspections and operational training from Norfolk. The cruiser participated in exercises with Atlantic Fleet units, including preparations for another Mediterranean deployment with the USS AMERICA Battle Group.

On August 28, 1995, NORMANDY departed Norfolk for a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea with USS AMERICA. The deployment took place as NATO was preparing to expand military operations against Bosnian Serb forces following renewed attacks around Sarajevo and the failure of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. During the opening phase of the deployment, NORMANDY operated in the western Mediterranean while conducting turnover procedures with American naval forces preparing to return home. On September 8, the cruiser received orders to proceed at high speed toward the Adriatic Sea to support Operation Deliberate Force, NATO's air campaign against Bosnian Serb military targets.

NORMANDY subsequently made a rapid transit of approximately 1,600 nautical miles across the Mediterranean and entered the Adriatic operating area. Her mission involved the employment of Tomahawk land-attack missiles against air-defense facilities that posed a threat to NATO aircraft operating over Bosnia and Herzegovina. On September 10, 1995, at approximately 8:43 p.m. local time, NORMANDY began launching Tomahawk cruise missiles against Bosnian Serb air-defense installations and associated command-and-control facilities near Banja Luka in northern Bosnia. The cruiser fired thirteen missiles within approximately five minutes. The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Deliberate Force, which had begun on August 30 in response to continued military attacks and the deteriorating humanitarian situation around Sarajevo. The Tomahawk launches targeted facilities associated with the Bosnian Serb integrated air-defense system and supported the broader NATO effort to reduce threats to allied aircraft.

The September 10 strike marked the first combat use of Tomahawk land-attack missiles against targets in Bosnia and Herzegovina. NORMANDY subsequently continued operating in the Adriatic, maintaining air-defense surveillance and coordinating aircraft movements associated with NATO operations. During the remainder of the deployment, NORMANDY supported Operations Deny Flight and Sharp Guard and participated in naval activities associated with the implementation of the Dayton Peace Accords. The agreement, reached in November 1995 and formally signed in Paris on December 14, provided the framework for ending the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Following the establishment of the NATO-led Implementation Force, NORMANDY supported Operation Decisive Endeavor, which involved the maritime components of NATO's efforts to implement the peace agreement. The cruiser continued air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance and multinational naval exercises in the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas. NORMANDY returned to Norfolk in early 1996 after completing her six-month deployment. Her service during the Adriatic operations was recognized through additional unit awards. Following her return, the cruiser entered a period of maintenance, inspections and operational training.

During 1996 and the first months of 1997, NORMANDY continued her training cycle in preparation for another overseas deployment. Activities included engineering evaluations, Aegis combat systems testing, missile warfare exercises and coordinated operations with other Atlantic Fleet ships. On October 3, 1997, NORMANDY departed Norfolk for a six-month deployment with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) Battle Group. The cruiser served as Air Defense Commander for the formation, coordinating the air-defense capabilities of accompanying ships and monitoring aircraft operations.

During October, the battle group participated in Exercise Bright Star in Egypt. The multinational exercise involved military forces from the United States, Egypt and numerous other countries and focused on combined operations, command and control, interoperability and regional military cooperation. Following completion of Bright Star, the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group was directed toward the Persian Gulf as tensions increased between Iraq and the international coalition responsible for enforcing United Nations resolutions adopted after the 1991 Gulf War.

Beginning on November 16, 1997, NORMANDY and accompanying ships proceeded through the Suez Canal and Red Sea toward the Gulf of Oman and Strait of Hormuz. The formation made a rapid transit to reinforce American naval forces already operating in the Persian Gulf, including the USS NIMITZ (CVN 68) Battle Group. After arriving in the Persian Gulf, NORMANDY assumed Ready Strike duties, maintaining the capability to launch Tomahawk land-attack missiles against designated targets if ordered. The cruiser also assumed regional air-defense coordination responsibilities, supporting the surveillance and management of military aviation in the operating area.

During the following four months, NORMANDY supported Operation Southern Watch, the multinational operation enforcing restrictions on Iraqi military aviation over southern Iraq. Her duties included air-defense surveillance, carrier escort operations and coordination of defensive procedures among American and allied naval units. NORMANDY also participated in maritime interception operations intended to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Boarding teams from American and coalition warships inspected commercial vessels suspected of transporting prohibited cargo, while the cruiser provided surveillance and coordination support.

During the deployment, NORMANDY completed twenty-seven underway replenishment operations and covered approximately 48,000 miles. Her embarked aviation detachment accumulated more than 300 flight hours without an aviation mishap. On December 23, 1997, singer Paula Cole visited NORMANDY to perform for the crew during the Christmas period. On December 25, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Jay L. Johnson visited the cruiser together with his wife and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Hagan.

During early 1998, NORMANDY continued Persian Gulf operations before being relieved by units of the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) Battle Group. Following completion of the turnover, the cruiser proceeded through the Strait of Hormuz, Red Sea and Suez Canal toward the Mediterranean. On April 3, 1998, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk, completing her six-month deployment. During the following months, the cruiser conducted post-deployment maintenance and inspections before entering a substantial shipyard availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.

The maintenance period included repairs and improvements to the hull, engineering equipment, machinery and combat systems. Following completion of the work, NORMANDY resumed sea trials, weapons qualifications and operational training. The cruiser also received the Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award in recognition of her material readiness and operational performance. During 1999 and the first half of 2000, NORMANDY continued the Atlantic Fleet training cycle, conducting exercises and readiness evaluations with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group. These activities included air-defense exercises, maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare training and preparations for another deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East.

On June 21, 2000, NORMANDY departed Norfolk with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group for a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and Persian Gulf. The cruiser served as an air-defense coordination platform for the carrier formation while American naval forces maintained their presence in the region. During the Mediterranean portion of the deployment, NORMANDY participated in exercises with allied naval forces, including Destined Glory, SLUNJ 2000 and Sarment 2000. The activities included air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance, tactical maneuvering and the integration of American and allied naval units.

Following the Mediterranean operations, the battle group proceeded through the Suez Canal toward the Middle East. NORMANDY supported Operation Southern Watch, providing air-defense surveillance and coordination for carrier aircraft conducting missions associated with the enforcement of restrictions on Iraqi military aviation. The cruiser also participated in maritime interception operations in the Persian Gulf. During the deployment, NORMANDY conducted fifteen vessel inspections as part of efforts to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq. These operations involved cooperation with American and allied naval forces monitoring commercial shipping in the region.

Following completion of her Middle East assignment, NORMANDY returned through the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean Sea. During the homeward portion of the deployment, the battle group was directed toward the Ionian Sea to support the continued American naval presence in the region. On December 19, 2000, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk, completing a six-month deployment. The cruiser subsequently entered a post-deployment maintenance and modernization period.

Beginning in February 2001, NORMANDY underwent an extended maintenance availability that continued through September. The work included extensive repairs and improvements to engineering systems, machinery and combat equipment, as well as modernization of elements of the ship's combat systems. The availability was intended to sustain the cruiser's operational capabilities and prepare her for future deployment assignments. Following completion of the shipyard period, NORMANDY resumed testing and training along the American East Coast. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, had substantially increased the Navy's operational commitments, with additional naval forces being deployed to support the developing campaign against al-Qaeda and Taliban forces in Afghanistan.

During the first months of 2002, NORMANDY participated in integrated training with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group. In May, the formation completed Joint Task Force Exercise 02-2 off the American East Coast, the final major readiness evaluation before deployment. On June 20, 2002, NORMANDY departed Norfolk with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group for another deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. The formation proceeded through the Strait of Gibraltar in early July before continuing eastward toward the Suez Canal and the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility.

During the deployment, NORMANDY supported American naval operations associated with Operations Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom. The cruiser provided air-defense surveillance and carrier escort capabilities while American naval forces operated in the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea and surrounding waters. Her assignments included maintaining the air-defense picture, coordinating aircraft movements, monitoring maritime traffic and supporting the protection of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and adjoining waters. The cruiser also participated in exercises and maritime security activities with American and coalition naval units.

During the latter part of the deployment, NORMANDY returned through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean Sea. On December 3, 2002, she arrived at Souda Bay, Crete, for a scheduled logistics and port visit before completing her Atlantic crossing. NORMANDY returned to Norfolk on December 20, 2002, completing a six-month deployment. Following her return, the cruiser entered a period of maintenance, inspections and operational training.

Throughout 2003, NORMANDY remained based at Norfolk and conducted local operations in the western Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. The cruiser participated in engineering evaluations, weapons qualifications and coordinated exercises involving air defense, surface warfare and maritime security. These activities maintained the ship's readiness for future independent and expeditionary operations. During 2004, NORMANDY continued training and readiness evaluations, including combat systems testing and preparations for deployment with an expeditionary strike group. The exercises emphasized the ability of an Aegis cruiser to provide air-defense and maritime security capabilities for amphibious forces operating away from traditional carrier battle groups.

On March 25, 2005, NORMANDY departed Norfolk as part of the USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3) Expeditionary Strike Group for operations in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and Middle East. The deployment supported maritime security and theater cooperation missions associated with continuing American military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Following the Atlantic crossing, the formation operated in the Mediterranean before proceeding through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea. NORMANDY was assigned maritime security and surveillance duties and conducted operations in the Gulf of Aden, where American and coalition naval forces were monitoring commercial shipping and responding to maritime security concerns.

On April 29, 2005, NORMANDY participated in a humanitarian rescue operation in the Gulf of Aden after a vessel carrying Somali migrants capsized approximately twenty-five miles off the Somali coast. The patrol coastal ship USS FIREBOLT (PC 10) assisted in recovering survivors, while NORMANDY supported the operation. The joint rescue effort involved eighty-nine people who had been aboard the distressed vessel. American naval personnel provided assistance and coordinated arrangements with regional authorities for the survivors. The operation demonstrated the humanitarian responsibilities that frequently accompanied maritime security patrols in the Gulf of Aden.

Following the rescue, NORMANDY continued maritime security activities in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. On May 29, 2005, the cruiser provided medical assistance and supplies to another small vessel encountered during maritime operations. During the deployment, NORMANDY operated in the northern Persian Gulf, supporting the protection of Iraqi offshore oil infrastructure and conducting maritime security operations with American and coalition forces. The Al Basra and Khawr al-Amaya oil terminals remained important to Iraq's postwar economy and required sustained protection against potential attacks.

The cruiser also participated in multinational exercises and theater security cooperation activities involving regional naval forces. These included operations and training associated with American military activities in Djibouti, Jordan and Kuwait, as well as maritime engagement with the Moroccan Navy. During the final months of the deployment, NORMANDY completed her remaining Fifth and Sixth Fleet assignments before returning through the Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean. She arrived at Norfolk on October 31, 2005, completing a deployment of more than seven months.

During 2006, NORMANDY underwent post-deployment maintenance, inspections and operational training. The cruiser subsequently prepared for assignment to Standing NATO Maritime Group One, one of NATO's permanent multinational naval formations. In April 2007, NORMANDY departed Norfolk to join Standing NATO Maritime Group One. The deployment involved extensive operations in the North Atlantic, Mediterranean Sea and waters surrounding Africa. NORMANDY served as flagship of the multinational formation under Rear Admiral Michael Mahon of the U.S. Navy.

The NATO force included warships from Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal and the United States. Its principal objectives were maritime security, cooperation with regional partners and exercises intended to improve the ability of allied naval forces to operate together. During the early portion of the deployment, NORMANDY participated in Exercise Neptune Warrior off the United Kingdom. The exercise involved British and allied naval forces conducting integrated air-defense, surface warfare, anti-submarine and maritime security training. The formation subsequently operated in the North Sea and Mediterranean. On July 15, 2007, NORMANDY arrived at Souda Bay, Crete, for a scheduled logistics visit before continuing with the NATO deployment.

During the summer, Standing NATO Maritime Group One began an approximately 12,500-nautical-mile circumnavigation of Africa. The operation involved exercises with African naval forces, maritime surveillance and visits to regional ports. The deployment was intended to expand cooperation with countries bordering important shipping routes around the African continent. On August 28, 2007, NORMANDY arrived at Cape Town, South Africa, for a scheduled port visit. The visit provided opportunities for professional exchanges with South African naval personnel and cooperation with local maritime authorities.

Following the South African visit, the NATO formation rounded the Cape of Good Hope and proceeded into the Indian Ocean. The ships conducted exercises and maritime security operations while proceeding north along the eastern coast of Africa. From September 14 to 18, 2007, NORMANDY visited Mombasa, Kenya. The visit involved professional exchanges, logistical support and engagement with Kenyan naval personnel. The formation subsequently continued into the Gulf of Aden and Red Sea. During the latter part of September 2007, the NATO ships were operating in the southern Red Sea when the volcanic island of Jabal al-Tair erupted on September 30. The eruption caused the deaths and disappearance of Yemeni military personnel stationed on the island.

Standing NATO Maritime Group One assisted Yemeni authorities by supporting search-and-rescue activities and providing maritime surveillance and assistance in the affected area. NORMANDY participated in the multinational response before the formation resumed its northward transit. After passing through the Suez Canal, the NATO ships returned to the Mediterranean Sea. NORMANDY made another logistics visit to Souda Bay during early October before continuing westward. On October 31, 2007, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk.

During 2008, NORMANDY conducted post-deployment maintenance, inspections and operational training in the western Atlantic. Her activities included combat systems evaluations, engineering assessments, shiphandling exercises and coordination with other Atlantic Fleet units. During the opening months of 2009, NORMANDY underwent a dry-docking maintenance period at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair. The work involved hull preservation, underwater inspections, machinery repairs and maintenance of combat equipment. Following completion of the availability, NORMANDY resumed sea trials and training. The cruiser continued preparing for future deployment assignments, including maritime security operations and the ability to respond to regional crises or humanitarian emergencies.

On January 12, 2010, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck Haiti, causing extensive destruction in Port-au-Prince and surrounding communities. The United States launched Operation Unified Response to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. At approximately 2:30 a.m. on January 13, NORMANDY received orders to prepare for immediate deployment to Haiti. The cruiser departed Norfolk approximately fifteen hours later, carrying supplies and equipment intended to support relief operations.

NORMANDY arrived off Haiti on January 17, 2010, and began conducting humanitarian assistance activities. The cruiser supported reconnaissance, delivery of food and water, transport of medical supplies and evacuation of injured civilians. The ship's embarked helicopter detachment from Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 46, Detachment Three, conducted regular flights to affected communities, transporting relief supplies and assisting medical personnel operating ashore. During the operation, NORMANDY supported relief activities along the Tiburon Peninsula and in areas near Port-au-Prince. On January 23, the cruiser conducted humanitarian assistance operations near Petit-Trou-de-Nippes, using embarked helicopters and small boats to deliver supplies to communities affected by the earthquake.

Throughout the deployment, the helicopter detachment delivered approximately 75,142 pounds of food and drinking water and 3,000 pounds of medical supplies. The helicopters also evacuated 107 injured Haitians to medical treatment facilities. The relief operations required coordination with American military units, humanitarian organizations and Haitian authorities. NORMANDY also supported the assessment of damaged coastal facilities and assisted with the movement of personnel and supplies to areas where roads and port infrastructure had been severely affected. After completing her assignment in Haiti, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk for maintenance and preparations for another deployment. The humanitarian mission was followed by an accelerated period of training and readiness evaluations.

On May 20, 2010, NORMANDY departed Norfolk for a deployment to the U.S. Fifth and Sixth Fleet areas of responsibility. The cruiser conducted maritime security operations, air-defense training and surveillance activities in the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. During the deployment, NORMANDY supported American and coalition naval missions associated with the continuing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Her assignments included maritime surveillance, regional air-defense coordination and the protection of important shipping routes in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea. The cruiser also participated in exercises and training activities with allied naval forces, conducting replenishment operations and port visits needed to sustain the deployment. On December 12, 2010, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk, completing an approximately seven-month deployment. Following her return, the cruiser entered a period of maintenance and training.

During April 2011, NORMANDY participated in Fleet Week activities at Port Everglades, Florida. The cruiser arrived on April 25 and opened to visitors as part of the Navy's public engagement activities. The visit included official receptions, ship tours and events involving local organizations. During the remainder of 2011, NORMANDY conducted training and operational evaluations in preparation for a deployment to northern European waters. Activities included air-defense exercises, engineering inspections and preparations for multinational operations with NATO and partner navies.

In June 2012, NORMANDY deployed to the Baltic Sea to participate in BALTOPS 2012. The annual exercise involved naval forces from NATO members and regional partner nations, conducting maritime security, anti-submarine warfare, air-defense and surface warfare training. The principal sea phase began on June 7, 2012. NORMANDY provided air-defense coordination and participated in tactical exercises with American and European naval units. The activities included coordinated maneuvering, maritime surveillance and communications training. On June 15, 2012, NORMANDY arrived at Kiel, Germany, following the BALTOPS sea phase. The cruiser moored at the German naval base and participated in activities associated with Kiel Week, including official visits, public access and professional exchanges with German naval personnel.

After completing the Kiel visit, NORMANDY continued eastward through the Baltic Sea to participate in Exercise FRUKUS 2012, a multinational naval exercise involving France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. On June 24, 2012, NORMANDY arrived at Baltiysk, Russia, for the opening phase of FRUKUS. The participating navies conducted professional exchanges and training intended to improve communications, maritime security procedures and cooperation during multinational operations. The exercise continued at sea through June 29, with activities including coordinated maneuvering, search-and-rescue procedures and maritime security training. NORMANDY subsequently visited St. Petersburg, Russia, where the crew hosted Russian naval personnel and participated in additional professional exchanges.

Following completion of the Baltic deployment, NORMANDY returned to American waters in July 2012. During the remainder of the year, the cruiser resumed maintenance, inspections and training in the western Atlantic. Throughout 2013 and 2014, NORMANDY conducted operational training and readiness evaluations in preparation for deployment with Carrier Strike Group Twelve, centered on USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71). These preparations included integrated carrier strike group exercises, air-defense coordination, anti-submarine warfare training, surface warfare and maritime security operations. The training cycle culminated in readiness exercises conducted during the latter part of 2014.

On March 9, 2015, NORMANDY departed Norfolk for a deployment with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group. Other participating ships included USS FARRAGUT (DDG 99), USS FORREST SHERMAN (DDG 98) and USS WINSTON S. CHURCHILL (DDG 81). The deployment was unusual because the carrier strike group was scheduled to proceed through the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East before continuing across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT was also scheduled to transfer her homeport from Norfolk to San Diego during the deployment.

Following the Atlantic crossing, NORMANDY entered the Mediterranean and participated in training and maritime security operations with American and allied naval forces. The formation subsequently transited the Suez Canal into the Red Sea. During April 2015, the security situation in Yemen deteriorated following the expansion of the Houthi movement's control over parts of the country and the beginning of a Saudi-led military intervention. American naval forces increased their presence in the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea as concerns grew over maritime security and possible weapons shipments to Yemen.

On April 20 and 21, 2015, NORMANDY and USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT repositioned toward the Arabian Sea and approaches to the Gulf of Aden. The deployment supported American maritime security operations and regional monitoring during the developing conflict in Yemen. During the following months, NORMANDY provided air-defense coordination and carrier escort duties while the strike group supported Operation Inherent Resolve, the American-led military campaign against Islamic State forces in Iraq and Syria. The cruiser operated in the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman and surrounding waters, conducting maritime surveillance, air-defense training and replenishment operations. Her responsibilities included maintaining the recognized air picture, protecting the carrier strike group and supporting maritime security operations.

During July 2015, NORMANDY visited Manama, Bahrain, for a scheduled logistics and port visit. The cruiser subsequently returned to regional operations, continuing air-defense and carrier escort duties. On August 31, 2015, NORMANDY held a change-of-command ceremony during the deployment. The cruiser subsequently continued eastward with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group toward the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific. During October 2015, NORMANDY participated in Exercise Malabar 2015, a multinational naval exercise involving the United States, India and Japan. The exercise was conducted in the Bay of Bengal and involved ships, submarines and aircraft from the participating navies.

From October 16 to 19, NORMANDY participated in tactical exercises including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare and visit, board, search and seizure training. The activities emphasized interoperability among the three navies and the ability to conduct integrated maritime operations. Following completion of Malabar, NORMANDY continued eastward and visited Singapore during late October. The cruiser subsequently proceeded across the Western Pacific with the carrier strike group. On November 23, 2015, USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT arrived at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, completing her homeport transfer from Norfolk. The move formed part of a carrier homeport realignment involving USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN 76) and USS GEORGE WASHINGTON.

NORMANDY subsequently continued the voyage toward the Atlantic Ocean, becoming the only ship of the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group to complete a full circumnavigation of the world during the deployment.

After passing through the eastern Pacific, the cruiser transited the Panama Canal and continued into the Atlantic Ocean for the final leg of her journey. The deployment had taken NORMANDY through the operating areas of the U.S. Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Fleets. On December 12, 2015, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk, completing a deployment lasting approximately nine and a half months. The cruiser had conducted maritime security operations, carrier escort duties, multinational exercises and regional engagement activities during a voyage around the world.

Following her return, NORMANDY entered a post-deployment maintenance period. On January 28, 2016, BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair received a contract associated with a Selected Restricted Availability aboard the cruiser. The maintenance period involved extensive repairs and modernization of hull structures, engineering equipment, machinery and combat systems. The work continued through much of 2016 while shipyard personnel completed scheduled improvements and inspections.

During 2017, NORMANDY resumed operational training and readiness evaluations following the extended shipyard availability. The cruiser conducted sea trials, engineering certifications, air-defense exercises and coordinated operations with other Atlantic Fleet units.

On June 6, 2017, NORMANDY experienced a fatal man-overboard incident while conducting training approximately eighty miles off the coast of Cherry Point, North Carolina. Fire Controlman Second Class Christopher W. Clavin was observed falling into the water at approximately 3:00 p.m. The crew immediately initiated man-overboard procedures and began searching the area. Additional Navy and Coast Guard units were directed to assist, including the aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72), the destroyers USS BAINBRIDGE (DDG 96), USS THE SULLIVANS (DDG 68) and USS MASON (DDG 87), and the Coast Guard cutter USCGC Forward.

The search involved multiple helicopters, surface ships and supporting aircraft. Navy and Coast Guard personnel searched an area of approximately 6,300 square miles over more than seventy-six hours. Despite the extensive search, Clavin was not located. The operation was suspended on June 9, 2017, and he was presumed lost at sea. The crew subsequently conducted memorial activities while the Navy investigated the circumstances of the incident.

During the remainder of 2017, NORMANDY continued training and operational evaluations, preparing for deployment with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) Carrier Strike Group. On April 11, 2018, NORMANDY departed Norfolk with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group for a deployment to European and Middle Eastern waters. The formation included USS ARLEIGH BURKE (DDG 51), USS BULKELEY (DDG 84), USS FORREST SHERMAN and USS FARRAGUT, together with supporting ships and aircraft.

The deployment formed part of the Navy's Dynamic Force Employment concept, which involved adjusting the timing and duration of naval deployments to provide greater operational flexibility. Rather than remain continuously overseas, the carrier strike group was scheduled to conduct separate operational phases divided by a return to American waters. During the opening phase, NORMANDY crossed the Atlantic and entered the Mediterranean Sea. The cruiser provided air-defense surveillance and protection for the carrier strike group while American naval forces supported Operation Inherent Resolve and maintained a regional presence.

The formation conducted carrier flight operations in the eastern Mediterranean, along with air-defense exercises and multinational training involving allied naval forces. NORMANDY also participated in maritime surveillance and coordinated operations with other American surface combatants. On May 22, 2018, NORMANDY held a change-of-command ceremony while operating in the Mediterranean Sea. One week later, on May 29, the cruiser visited Santorini, Greece, for a scheduled port visit.

Following further operations in the Mediterranean, the carrier strike group began returning toward the United States for a planned interval in home waters. USS HARRY S. TRUMAN arrived at Norfolk on July 21, 2018, ending the first phase of the deployment. During the following weeks, NORMANDY conducted maintenance, training and preparations for renewed operations in the North Atlantic. The interval allowed equipment inspections, crew rest and adjustments to the deployment schedule.

On August 28, 2018, the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group resumed its overseas deployment. NORMANDY returned to the North Atlantic, conducting maritime security operations and exercises with American and allied naval forces. During October and November 2018, NORMANDY participated in Exercise Trident Juncture 2018, one of NATO's largest military exercises of the post-Cold War period. The exercise involved forces from numerous allied and partner nations and focused on collective defense, reinforcement of Northern Europe and large-scale joint operations.

The maritime phase involved naval forces operating in the Norwegian Sea, North Atlantic and coastal waters of Norway. NORMANDY provided air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance and surface warfare capabilities during operations with American and allied ships. The cruiser operated in high northern latitudes, including waters near Vestfjorden and Bodo, Norway, where the exercise tested the ability of naval forces to operate in demanding environmental conditions and coordinate with land-based aircraft and other military units.

Following completion of Trident Juncture and the remaining North Atlantic assignments, NORMANDY returned across the Atlantic Ocean. She arrived at Naval Station Norfolk on December 16, 2018, completing the second phase of the deployment.

During the first half of 2019, NORMANDY underwent post-deployment maintenance, inspections and operational training. The cruiser subsequently prepared for another overseas deployment involving maritime security and operations with American naval formations in the Mediterranean and Middle East. During the fall of 2019, NORMANDY deployed to the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility as part of a surface action group operating independently from a carrier strike group. The deployment included maritime security patrols, exercises with allied naval forces and regional presence operations. On October 6, 2019, NORMANDY arrived at Souda Bay, Crete, for a scheduled port visit. The visit included official engagements and a visit by senior American defense officials.

The cruiser subsequently continued Mediterranean operations before proceeding westward toward Spain. From December 2 to 5, 2019, NORMANDY visited Naval Station Rota for logistics, maintenance and crew rest. Following completion of the Mediterranean assignment, NORMANDY proceeded toward the Middle East and joined operations associated with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group. The cruiser subsequently operated in the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region, supporting American maritime security activities and carrier operations. On December 24, 2019, NORMANDY arrived at Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a scheduled Christmas port visit.

During January and February 2020, NORMANDY continued maritime security operations in the northern Arabian Sea. The ship's duties included surveillance of commercial shipping, investigation of suspicious vessels and support for multinational efforts to disrupt illicit maritime trafficking. On February 9, 2020, NORMANDY intercepted a stateless dhow in international waters of the Arabian Sea. The cruiser's visit, board, search and seizure team boarded the vessel and discovered a substantial shipment of weapons and military equipment. The seized materiel included 150 Iranian-manufactured Dehlavieh anti-tank guided missiles, three Iranian-designed 358 surface-to-air missiles, thermal imaging weapon sights and components associated with unmanned aerial and maritime systems.

American military authorities subsequently assessed that the weapons had been intended for delivery to the Houthi movement in Yemen, potentially violating United Nations restrictions on the transfer of weapons to the group. The shipment contained equipment similar to material recovered by USS FORREST SHERMAN during a separate interdiction in the Arabian Sea on November 25, 2019. The two seizures contributed to American and international investigations into illicit maritime weapons trafficking in the region. Following the interdiction, NORMANDY continued supporting maritime security patrols and carrier strike group operations in the Middle East. The deployment continued during the initial spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in new restrictions on port visits and crew movements throughout the Navy.

During the spring of 2020, NORMANDY began the return voyage to the United States. On June 5, 2020, the cruiser returned to Norfolk together with USS FORREST SHERMAN, completing a deployment of approximately nine months. Following her return, NORMANDY entered a post-deployment maintenance period. On October 1, 2020, the cruiser was assigned to Carrier Strike Group Twelve, the formation being prepared for future operations with the new aircraft carrier USS GERALD R. FORD (CVN 78).

At approximately the same time, NORMANDY began a planned extended maintenance and modernization period. The work involved preservation and repairs to the hull, propulsion and auxiliary machinery, combat systems and other shipboard installations. During 2021, NORMANDY remained primarily engaged in maintenance, inspections and preparations for returning to operational service. Following completion of the principal shipyard work, the cruiser resumed engineering evaluations, sea trials and combat systems testing.

During the first half of 2022, NORMANDY continued training and readiness evaluations with Atlantic Fleet units. The ship was assigned to the developing USS GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group, whose first-in-class aircraft carrier was preparing for its initial operational deployment. On October 4, 2022, USS GERALD R. FORD departed Norfolk for a short Atlantic deployment involving multinational naval operations and exercises with allied forces. NORMANDY participated in the carrier strike group's activities, which included the integration of surface combatants and naval aviation with the new carrier.

Other ships participating in the formation included USS McFAUL (DDG 74) and USS THOMAS HUDNER (DDG 116), together with allied naval units including the Spanish frigate ALVARO DE BAZAN (F 101) and the German frigate FGS HESSEN (F 221). The deployment included Exercise Silent Wolverine and other training intended to evaluate the integration of the new carrier and its accompanying surface combatants. NORMANDY conducted air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance and tactical exercises with American and allied naval forces. The carrier strike group completed its initial deployment on November 26, 2022. NORMANDY subsequently continued maintenance and readiness preparations for a longer overseas deployment scheduled for the following year.

During the first months of 2023, NORMANDY participated in advanced training and operational certification exercises with Carrier Strike Group Twelve. These activities included Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training, Composite Training Unit Exercise and additional assessments intended to confirm the formation's readiness for overseas operations. On February 28, 2023, Captain Errol A. Robinson relieved Captain Gary M. Chase as commanding officer of NORMANDY during a ceremony at Norfolk. The cruiser subsequently completed preparations for her next deployment.

On May 2, 2023, NORMANDY departed Norfolk with the USS GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group for the carrier's first major overseas deployment. The formation included USS RAMAGE (DDG 61), USS McFAUL and USS THOMAS HUDNER. The deployment began with operations in the Atlantic Ocean and Norwegian Sea, where the carrier strike group participated in exercises and maritime security activities with NATO forces. NORMANDY served as Air Defense Commander for the formation, coordinating the air-defense capabilities of accompanying surface combatants and aircraft.

During May 2023, the carrier strike group participated in naval activities associated with NATO cooperation in Northern Europe. The presence of the American carrier and accompanying warships formed part of increased allied maritime activity following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. On May 25, 2023, NORMANDY arrived at Gothenburg, Sweden, for her first scheduled port visit of the deployment. The visit involved professional exchanges with Swedish naval personnel, official engagements and opportunities for maintenance and crew rest. Following the Gothenburg visit, NORMANDY continued operations in northern European waters before proceeding toward the Mediterranean Sea. The cruiser participated in exercises and coordinated operations with NATO ships and aircraft, maintaining air-defense surveillance and maritime security responsibilities.

During the summer of 2023, NORMANDY operated extensively in the Mediterranean, participating in multinational exercises and engagements with allied naval forces. The deployment included visits to Koper, Slovenia; Rijeka, Croatia; and Aksaz, Turkey, as well as continued maritime security patrols. The cruiser also conducted professional exchanges and joint activities with ships of the British, Italian, Turkish and Greek navies, including HMS KENT (F 78), ITS CARABINIERE (F 593), TCG GÖKCEADA (F 494) and HS ELLI (F 450).

On September 18, 2023, NORMANDY arrived at Bar, Montenegro, for a scheduled port visit lasting until September 21. The visit involved engagements with Montenegrin military and government representatives and activities intended to strengthen maritime cooperation between the United States and Montenegro. During the visit, NORMANDY hosted representatives of the United States Embassy and Montenegrin authorities during a reception aboard the cruiser. The ship subsequently resumed Mediterranean operations with the USS GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched coordinated attacks against Israel, resulting in a major escalation of conflict in the Middle East. The United States directed additional naval forces toward the eastern Mediterranean to deter a wider regional conflict and support American military commitments. The USS GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group was retained in the eastern Mediterranean, where NORMANDY continued serving as Air Defense Commander. The cruiser supported maritime surveillance, air-defense coordination and the protection of the carrier formation during a period of increased military activity in the region. Throughout October and November 2023, NORMANDY operated in the eastern Mediterranean and participated in training and maritime security activities with American and allied naval forces. The deployment included repeated exercises involving carrier aircraft, surface combatants and regional air-defense coordination.

On December 3, 2023, NORMANDY arrived at Piraeus, Greece, for a scheduled port visit. The cruiser subsequently resumed operations in the eastern Mediterranean before returning to Piraeus on December 26 for another logistics and liberty visit. During the final weeks of 2023, the carrier strike group continued its extended deployment in the Mediterranean. NORMANDY maintained air-defense readiness and supported coordination with other American and allied naval units operating in the region.

In early January 2024, NORMANDY began her return voyage toward the United States. On January 5, the cruiser passed through the Strait of Gibraltar and conducted logistics operations at Naval Station Rota, Spain. Another brief logistics stop followed on January 12. On January 20, 2024, NORMANDY returned to Naval Station Norfolk, completing a deployment lasting more than eight months. The cruiser had traveled more than 61,000 nautical miles and served as Air Defense Commander for the USS GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group during extensive NATO exercises and operations in the eastern Mediterranean.

Following her return, NORMANDY entered a short maintenance and training period before preparing for another deployment to European waters. The next assignment included participation in the eightieth-anniversary commemorations of the Allied invasion of Normandy and the annual Baltic Operations exercise. During early May 2024, NORMANDY participated in the inaugural Fleet Week Miami. The cruiser operated alongside USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, USS BATAAN (LHD 5), USS LEYTE GULF (CG 55) and the Coast Guard cutter USCGC SENECA (WMEC 906). During the event, the participating ships welcomed members of the public, conducted official visits and participated in community activities intended to provide information about the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

Following Fleet Week Miami, NORMANDY proceeded across the Atlantic toward European waters. The deployment was particularly connected with the cruiser's name because of the approaching eightieth anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy on June 6, 1944. On June 3, 2024, NORMANDY arrived at Cherbourg, France, to participate in the D-Day anniversary commemorations. The port visit included official ceremonies, engagements with French and American military representatives and activities honoring the veterans and military personnel who had participated in the Allied invasion of France. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro and Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, participated in commemorative activities associated with the anniversary. Members of NORMANDY's crew attended ceremonies and engagements commemorating the Allied landings and the subsequent campaign to liberate Western Europe.

The visit provided a direct connection between the ship and the historical event for which she was named. The ship's presence also formed part of the American naval participation in the international commemorations conducted throughout Normandy during June 2024. Following her visit to Cherbourg, France, for the 80th anniversary commemorations of the Allied landings in Normandy, USS NORMANDY participated in Baltic Operations 2024 (BALTOPS 24), a multinational NATO exercise conducted in the Baltic Sea region from June 7 to 20, 2024. On June 23, following the conclusion of the exercise, NORMANDY operated alongside the ballistic missile submarine USS TENNESSEE (SSBN 734) in the Norwegian Sea. The cruiser subsequently visited Naval Station Rota, Spain, before returning to Norfolk on July 13, 2024.

During the remainder of 2024, NORMANDY conducted maintenance, inspections and local training from Norfolk. The Navy continued preparations for the cruiser's eventual retirement while maintaining her operational capabilities for a final deployment.

During the first months of 2025, NORMANDY completed maintenance and readiness evaluations in preparation for an independent deployment to the U.S. Fourth Fleet area of responsibility. On February 25, 2025, NORMANDY departed Norfolk for an approximately three-month deployment to the Caribbean Sea and surrounding waters. The mission focused on maritime security, regional naval cooperation and exercises with American partner nations in Central America, South America and the Caribbean. The deployment was conducted under U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. Fourth Fleet. NORMANDY participated in maritime surveillance and training intended to improve cooperation among navies and maritime security authorities operating in the region.

On March 3, 2025, NORMANDY participated in a trilateral maritime exercise with the British patrol ship HMS MEDWAY (P 223) and the Dutch patrol ship HNLMS GRONINGEN (P 843). The exercise included coordinated ship maneuvering, communications training and aviation operations involving an NH90 helicopter embarked aboard the Dutch vessel. The exercise was intended to improve interoperability among the participating forces and develop procedures for multinational maritime security operations in Caribbean waters. On March 27, 2025, NORMANDY participated in a bilateral passing exercise with the Guyana Defence Force offshore patrol vessel SHAHOUD. The exercise involved coordinated shiphandling, communications and maritime security procedures.

During the deployment, NORMANDY also conducted exercises and engagement activities with naval and maritime forces from Colombia, France, Panama and other regional partner countries. These activities supported American efforts to strengthen maritime cooperation and improve regional security capabilities. Following completion of her Fourth Fleet assignments, NORMANDY returned to Naval Station Norfolk on May 15, 2025, concluding her final overseas deployment after nearly thirty-six years of commissioned service.

During the following months, NORMANDY continued limited operational activities while preparations for retirement progressed. In July 2025, the cruiser participated in Exercise Atlantic Alliance 2025 off the northeastern coast of the United States. During late August 2025, NORMANDY visited Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Virginia, to offload ammunition and other weapons in preparation for inactivation. The cruiser subsequently proceeded north for a final public port visit. NORMANDY arrived at New London, Connecticut, where she moored near Fort Trumbull State Park for activities associated with the Connecticut Maritime Heritage Festival. The visit included public tours, official engagements and community events. Following completion of the festival, NORMANDY returned to Norfolk on September 9, 2025, to complete preparations for decommissioning. The remaining crew and supporting personnel secured shipboard equipment, removed operational systems and prepared the cruiser for transfer to the inactive fleet.

On September 25, 2025, USS NORMANDY held her decommissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, marking the conclusion of nearly thirty-six years of commissioned service. The ceremony was attended by former crew members, naval personnel and guests associated with the ship's history. Rear Admiral Derek Trinque, Director of the Surface Warfare Division in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations and a former commanding officer of NORMANDY, delivered the principal address. Captain Nathan P. Diaz, the cruiser's final commanding officer, oversaw the concluding stages of the ship's inactivation.

Following completion of the decommissioning process, the former USS NORMANDY remained at Naval Station Norfolk while preparations were made for her transfer to the inactive fleet. On February 25, 2026, ex-NORMANDY departed Norfolk under tow, bound for the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. On February 27, 2026, the former cruiser arrived at Philadelphia, completing her transfer from Norfolk. She was subsequently placed in lay-up at the inactive ship facility pending a decision on her final disposition.

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Homeports of USS NORMANDY:

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Accidents aboard USS NORMANDY:

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USS NORMANDY Patch Gallery:

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USS NORMANDY Image Gallery:

The photo below was taken by Karl-Heinz Ahles and shows USS NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on May 11, 1999.

The photo below was taken by me and shows the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on November 9, 2008.

The photos below were taken by me and show the NORMANDY dry-docked at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Va., on February 3, 2009.

The photos below were taken by me and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on May 6, 2012.

The photos below were taken by Carl Groll and show the NORMANDY during her early morning arrival in Kiel, Germany, after her participation in BALTOPS 2012. The photos were taken on June 15, 2012.

The photos below were taken by me and show the NORMANDY during her early morning arrival in Kiel, Germany, after her participation in BALTOPS 2012. The photos were taken on June 15, 2012. Note that she is not wearing any command excellence awards at all.

The photos below were taken by me and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Kiel, Germany, on June 16 and 17, 2012.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on October 28, 2013.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on October 23, 2014.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY undergoing a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair on April 12, 2016.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY undergoing a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair on October 12, 2016.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va, on October 4, 2017.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va, on December 26, 2021.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va, on September 6, 2022.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the NORMANDY at Naval Base Norfolk, Va, on May 31, 2025.

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