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USS Chosin (CG 65)

USS CHOSIN is the 19^th ship in the TICONDEROGA-class of guided missile cruisers and the first ship in the Navy to bear the name. She was named in commemoration of the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War in November and December 1950.

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Crew List:

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

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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

The Shield:

On the shield, the conflict between invading Communist forces from the North and the UN offensive from the south, is symbolized by the interaction of red and light blue on the shield. Red also stands for courage and bloodshed; the gold denotes excellence and high ideals. The Marine Corps and United States Armyare represented by the swords, raised at the ready. The rays symbolize the flame of combat and the frigid environment in the area of the Chosin Reservoir, from which the ship takes its name.

The Crest:

The crest's demi-dragon, breathing fire, represents the threat from China. The demi-trident symbolizes Naval Power; gold represents excellence and courage in battle.

The Motto:

The ship's motto is INVICTUS is Latin for "invincible" or "unconquered".

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USS CHOSIN Patch Gallery:

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About the Ship's Name:

USS CHOSIN is named in commemoration of the First Marine Division s breakout from a Chinese Communist encirclement at the Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War in the bitter winter of 1950. Historians term the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir as the most savage battle of modern warfare. It is compared to Tarawa, the bloodiest battle of World War II.

The battle of Chosin was fought in the mountains of North Korea, near Manchuria. It pitted about 15,000 allied ground troops, mostly elements of the U.S. First Marine Division, a regimental combat team of the U.S. Army s Seventh infantry Division, and elements of the British Royal Marines against 120,000 Chinese Communists in 10 Divisions who had been ordered to annihilate them to the last man. Following the landing at Inchon and the seizure of Seoul, Korea, in September 1950, the First Marine Division reembarked on amphibious ships and transferred to the east coast of Korea. Landing at Wonson, the Fifth and Seventh Marines were sent to Hamhung to prepare for the advance on the Yalu. The First Marines initially remained near Wonson.

In November 1950, eight of those Chinese Communist Divisions struck the First Marine Division. Major General Oliver P. Smith ordered the Marines to reverse direction and overcome the Communist roadblocks. The attack in the new direction - the breakout - continued for 13 days until Marines linked with Army troops in the Hungnam perimeter.

By December, the Division had closed to Hungnam after a deliberate and calculated withdrawal, one that cost the enemy an estimated 25,000 dead as opposed to 730 Marines killed. Skillful troop leadership and stubborn determination enabled the Marines to avert disaster that at first seemed inevitable.

The survivors of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir are known as "The CHOSIN Few".

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History of USS CHOSIN:

The construction of USS CHOSIN began on August 3, 1987, at Ingalls Shipbuilding, a division of Litton Industries, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Her keel was laid on July 2, 1988, and the cruiser was launched on September 1, 1989. She was christened on October 14, 1989, with Mrs. Willa Knox H. Davis, wife of retired Marine Corps General Raymond G. Davis, serving as sponsor. Following fitting-out and initial trials in the Gulf of Mexico, CHOSIN was delivered to the U.S. Navy on November 5, 1990.

CHOSIN was commissioned at Pascagoula on January 12, 1991, with Captain Martin J. Mayer in command. Following additional testing in the Gulf of Mexico, the cruiser departed for her assigned homeport of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The passage included a transit of the Panama Canal, a stop at Naval Station Rodman on January 23, and an ammunition onload at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, California. CHOSIN visited San Diego from February 1-7 before arriving at Naval Station Pearl Harbor on February 14, 1991.

During the following months, CHOSIN underwent combat-system qualification trials, weapons testing, and post-shakedown maintenance. On April 8, 1991, she departed Pearl Harbor for Combat Systems Ship's Qualification Trials off Kauai. The cruiser subsequently conducted missile firings at the Pacific Missile Range Facility near Barking Sands. On June 10, she entered dry dock at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard for a post-shakedown availability. Further sea trials followed in August, and the ship completed refresher training during October and November. CHOSIN was subsequently assigned operational duties with the battle group centered on USS RANGER (CV 61).

On August 10, 1992, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for her maiden overseas deployment with the USS RANGER Battle Group. After crossing the western Pacific and Indian Ocean, the cruiser operated in the Persian Gulf during Operation Southern Watch. The operation involved American and coalition enforcement of the no-fly zone established over southern Iraq following the 1991 Gulf War. CHOSIN provided air-defense support for the battle group and participated in maritime surveillance and security operations associated with United Nations sanctions against Iraq.

During the deployment, CHOSIN also visited ports in the western Pacific and Indian Ocean region. The cruiser was documented at Hong Kong in late August 1992. Following operations in the Persian Gulf, she began the return voyage across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. On January 3, 1993, CHOSIN departed Fremantle, Australia, after a visit to the Perth area. She arrived at Sydney on January 10 for a six-day port visit and subsequently visited Townsville from January 18-20. The homeward passage also included Ebeye in the Marshall Islands, beginning January 25, and Tarawa in the Republic of Kiribati, beginning February 3. CHOSIN returned to Pearl Harbor on February 10, 1993, completing her first six-month deployment.

Following her return, CHOSIN underwent a Selected Restricted Availability and resumed sea trials in May 1993. During the remainder of the year, she conducted training, engineering evaluations, and operational exercises in Hawaiian waters. The cruiser also participated in weapons training and readiness evaluations in preparation for her next deployment.

On November 15, 1994, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for her second overseas deployment, operating with the battle group centered on USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64). The deployment included operations in the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf. During the outward voyage, CHOSIN visited ports in East and Southeast Asia, including Singapore, where she arrived at the Sembawang naval facility in late December 1994. On January 11, 1995, the battle group entered the Persian Gulf to support Operation Southern Watch and the enforcement of United Nations sanctions against Iraq. CHOSIN served as an air-warfare commander, coordinating air-defense activities and maintaining surveillance of the surrounding airspace. Her assignments also included escort duties and maritime-security operations in the northern Persian Gulf.

On January 28, 1995, CHOSIN arrived at Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a week-long port visit. She subsequently returned to operations in the northern Persian Gulf before entering Jebel Ali again on February 16 for maintenance and upkeep alongside the destroyer tender USS SAMUEL GOMPERS (AD 37). Further visits to Dubai and Jebel Ali followed during March. CHOSIN departed the Persian Gulf on March 23, 1995, and began the homeward passage through the Indian Ocean.

During April 1995, CHOSIN made several visits to Australian ports, arriving at Fremantle on April 7, Sydney on April 18, and Newcastle on April 24. She returned to Sydney on April 30 before continuing across the Pacific. The cruiser arrived at Pearl Harbor on May 15, 1995, completing approximately six months away from homeport.

In September 1995, CHOSIN entered Dry Dock 4 at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard for a Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. The work included hull, machinery, and equipment maintenance. She left dry dock in late October and resumed sea trials in December. During the first half of 1996, CHOSIN underwent additional training and operational evaluations, including engineering certification and weapons-system exercises.

From June 4-17, 1996, CHOSIN participated in the multinational Rim of the Pacific exercise, RIMPAC 96, in waters surrounding Hawaii. The exercise involved naval forces from several Pacific nations and included combined maritime operations, tactical maneuvering, and warfare training. Further readiness evaluations followed during the summer. On August 26, CHOSIN arrived at Portland, Oregon, for a visit associated with an international reunion of veterans of the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. She subsequently visited San Francisco before returning to Pearl Harbor on September 11. During October and November, the cruiser participated in additional pre-deployment exercises off Southern California.

From February 10-21, 1997, CHOSIN took part in Pacific Joint Task Force Exercise 97-1 off the Southern California coast. The exercise was part of a series previously known as FLEETEX and concentrated on the integration of naval forces with other American military services. CHOSIN subsequently completed final preparations for another overseas deployment.

On April 8, 1997, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor with the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group. The outward voyage included visits to Sydney and Fremantle, Australia, before the formation proceeded into the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. Following the battle group's arrival in the region in May, CHOSIN transferred regional air-defense responsibilities to USS LAKE ERIE (CG 70) and began maritime interception operations in the northern Persian Gulf.

The operations were conducted under United Nations sanctions restricting trade with Iraq. CHOSIN monitored merchant shipping and carried out inspections of vessels suspected of transporting unauthorized cargo. During one three-day period, the cruiser intercepted and boarded five vessels, including three large cargo ships. The operations were intended to enforce restrictions on imports and exports while allowing cargo permitted under the applicable United Nations resolutions.

In August 1997, CHOSIN participated in two Theater Ballistic Missile Defense exercises known as Arabian Skies. The exercises involved USS LAKE ERIE, USS JOHN PAUL JONES (DDG 53), aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing Two aboard USS CONSTELLATION, U.S. Army Patriot missile batteries, and U.S. Air Force communications and data-relay systems.

The exercises examined how information about simulated ballistic-missile threats could be detected, transmitted, and used by different military services. CHOSIN provided early warning information to other naval units and to an Army Patriot battery, allowing the receiving units to prepare their sensors and weapons systems for simulated incoming missiles. The exercises also evaluated command-and-control procedures and tactical data links associated with developing theater ballistic-missile defense capabilities.

After completing operations in the Persian Gulf in August 1997, CHOSIN began the return voyage through the Indian and Pacific Oceans. On August 21, she arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius, for a four-day visit. The cruiser subsequently made a brief refueling stop at Diego Garcia and visited Singapore in early September. CHOSIN anchored in Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour on September 8 for a four-day visit and later called at Apra Harbor, Guam, from September 17-18. She returned to Pearl Harbor on September 26, 1997.

During 1998, CHOSIN underwent maintenance and operational training in Hawaiian waters. Following an Intermediate Maintenance Availability and Selected Restricted Availability, the cruiser completed material inspections, combat-system training, and engineering certification. Further exercises and readiness evaluations continued through the second half of the year.

On June 19, 1999, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for another deployment with the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group. The deployment also involved operations in the same theater as the amphibious ready group centered on USS PELELIU (LHA 5). CHOSIN again served as an air-defense commander, coordinating the protection of naval forces during operations in the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf.

The deployment included visits to Busan, South Korea, from July 11-16, Yokosuka, Japan, from July 23-27, Singapore from August 10-14, and Phuket, Thailand, beginning August 17. CHOSIN entered the Persian Gulf in late August and resumed maritime interception operations in support of United Nations sanctions against Iraq. The cruiser also provided air-defense and surveillance support for the deployed American naval force.

During September and October 1999, CHOSIN made several logistics and liberty visits to Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates and Manama, Bahrain. Her activities in the northern Persian Gulf included monitoring commercial traffic and inspecting vessels suspected of violating trade restrictions. During one patrol, CHOSIN encountered a disabled Iraqi fishing dhow whose rudder had failed. The eight fishermen aboard had been adrift for approximately six days and were running short of food and drinking water. CHOSIN dispatched a boat to investigate and subsequently sent a repair party to assist the fishermen. An Arabic-speaking member of the crew helped establish communication and explain the assistance being offered.

CHOSIN departed the Persian Gulf in early November 1999 and proceeded toward Australia. Her return voyage included visits to Albany from November 18-22, Melbourne from November 25-29, and Sydney from December 1-5. The cruiser made a final refueling stop at Pago Pago, American Samoa, before arriving at Pearl Harbor on December 17, 1999. During the deployment, CHOSIN traveled more than 44,000 miles and visited ten ports in seven countries.

In May 2000, CHOSIN completed a Selected Restricted Availability that included modifications to her AEGIS combat system, communications equipment, and electronic warfare systems. Following the maintenance period, the crew underwent a Comprehensive Assessment of Readiness and Training. The cruiser subsequently embarked personnel from AEGIS Training and Readiness Command for specialized air-defense and antisubmarine warfare training. CHOSIN also visited Acapulco, Mexico, during this period.

During RIMPAC 2000, CHOSIN served as the air-defense commander for the combined American and Japanese bilateral force. The exercise included coordinated air-defense operations and communications between ships of the two navies. Following RIMPAC, CHOSIN resumed maintenance and training in preparation for her next overseas deployment.

On March 22, 2001, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for a deployment with the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group. The formation had completed a series of pre-deployment training exercises, including Joint Task Force Exercise 01-1 in February. CHOSIN's deployment included the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf during a period of continuing American operations against Iraq.

CHOSIN visited Melbourne, Australia, beginning April 6, followed by Fremantle later that month. On April 29, she entered the Persian Gulf for operations in support of Operation Southern Watch and maritime interception activities. During approximately fourteen weeks in the region, the cruiser conducted air-defense, escort, surveillance, and maritime-security missions. Port visits included Manama, Bahrain, and Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates.

On August 6, 2001, CHOSIN transited the Strait of Hormuz southbound and departed the Persian Gulf. The cruiser subsequently visited Phuket, Thailand, beginning August 11. On August 20, CHOSIN arrived off Dili, East Timor, where she supported the United States Support Group East Timor in humanitarian and civic-assistance activities. East Timor was then undergoing a United Nations-supervised transition toward independence following the violence associated with its 1999 independence referendum. CHOSIN subsequently visited Darwin, Australia, and Pago Pago, American Samoa, before returning to Pearl Harbor on September 14, 2001, three days after the terrorist attacks against the United States.

On November 7, 2001, CHOSIN entered dry dock at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard for an Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. The maintenance period involved extensive work on machinery, hull systems, and combat equipment. CHOSIN left dry dock in April 2002 and resumed sea trials on June 19, 2002. During the remainder of the year, she conducted training and equipment evaluations from Naval Station Pearl Harbor.

On March 15, 2003, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for deployment with the USS NIMITZ (CVN 68) Battle Group. Other ships associated with the group included USS PRINCETON (CG 59), USS FITZGERALD (DDG 62), USS RODNEY M. DAVIS (FFG 60), and the fast combat support ship USS BRIDGE (AOE 10). The deployment began during the opening phase of the American-led invasion of Iraq, Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Following the transit to the Middle East, CHOSIN conducted operations in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters. Her duties included air defense, carrier escort, maritime surveillance, and interception operations. The cruiser supported the naval force operating during the invasion and subsequent military operations in Iraq. On May 1, 2003, Captain Edward M. Boorda relieved Captain Richard J. Nolan Jr. as commanding officer during a ceremony aboard CHOSIN in the Persian Gulf.

During the following months, CHOSIN continued operational assignments with the USS NIMITZ Battle Group. After completing the deployment and returning across the Pacific, the cruiser arrived at Pearl Harbor on November 2, 2003, following approximately seven and a half months away from homeport.

During 2004, CHOSIN resumed training, maintenance, and fleet exercises in the eastern Pacific. From October 4-15, she participated in Exercise Trident Warrior 04 with Expeditionary Strike Group One, centered on USS TARAWA (LHA 1). The exercise tested communications, command-and-control systems, and information exchange within a naval formation that included amphibious and surface combatant forces. CHOSIN subsequently participated in San Francisco Fleet Week activities during October.

On July 25, 2005, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for a deployment with the USS TARAWA Expeditionary Strike Group. The formation included amphibious ships such as USS CLEVELAND (LPD 7) and USS PEARL HARBOR (LSD 52), as well as the guided-missile frigate USS INGRAHAM (FFG 61). The deployment took the ships through the western Pacific and Indian Ocean into the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

During the outward voyage, CHOSIN participated in antisubmarine warfare training with Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force units near Hawaii. On August 21, 2005, the cruiser anchored off Phuket, Thailand, for a scheduled port visit. The expeditionary strike group subsequently entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility, where its operations included maritime security and support for American military activities in Iraq.

During approximately two months of operations in the northern Persian Gulf, CHOSIN worked with Iraqi and coalition naval forces protecting the Al Basrah and Khawr Al Amaya oil terminals. The installations were central to Iraq's oil exports and remained under maritime protection because of the danger of attacks against shipping and offshore infrastructure. CHOSIN conducted surveillance, escort, and security duties in the surrounding waters.

The deployment also included visits to Singapore, Bahrain, Jebel Ali, Australia, and American Samoa. Following the return voyage across the Pacific, CHOSIN arrived at Pearl Harbor on January 9, 2006, completing a deployment lasting approximately five and a half months.

On March 31, 2006, CHOSIN and USS COWPENS (CG 63) participated in a multinational exercise with Russian Navy ships off Guam. The Russian units included the destroyer MARSHAL SHAPOSHNIKOV, landing ship NIKOLAY KORSAKOV, replenishment ship PECHENGA, and ocean-going tug SB-522. The exercise followed a Russian naval visit to Apra Harbor from March 27-30 and concentrated on humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief cooperation. Activities included personnel exchanges, tactical maneuvering, communications, and helicopter operations.

During the remainder of 2006, CHOSIN conducted training, maintenance, and operational preparations in the Pacific. In early 2007, the cruiser completed integrated exercises for another deployment with amphibious and surface forces.

On April 16, 2007, CHOSIN and USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG 93) departed Pearl Harbor to join the expeditionary strike group centered on USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD 6). The deployment included operations in the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility. The formation supported continuing American military commitments in Iraq and regional maritime-security operations. CHOSIN provided air-defense and escort support for the expeditionary strike group. Her assignments also included maritime surveillance and security operations in the northern Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. Following the deployment, CHOSIN and USS CHUNG-HOON returned to Pearl Harbor on September 28, 2007.

During March 24-28, 2008, CHOSIN underwent an inspection by the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey. The inspection identified significant deficiencies involving the ship's material condition and several combat and support systems. The findings raised concerns about the cruiser's ability to sustain combat operations without corrective maintenance. Following the inspection, CHOSIN underwent repairs and equipment refurbishment, including work on weapons and other shipboard systems. Maintenance and readiness training continued during the remainder of 2008 and into 2009.

On August 7, 2009, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor for another deployment with the USS NIMITZ Carrier Strike Group. The deployment included operations in the western Pacific and Middle East during a period of increasing international concern about piracy off Somalia. Following arrival in the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility, CHOSIN was assigned to counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and western Indian Ocean.

On November 6, 2009, CHOSIN assumed flagship duties for Combined Task Force 151, a multinational naval task force established earlier that year to conduct counter-piracy operations off Somalia. The cruiser embarked the task force command staff and served as a command-and-control platform for coalition naval operations. Her duties included coordinating surveillance, investigating suspected pirate vessels, responding to distress calls, and supporting boarding operations.

During November 2009, CHOSIN conducted maritime-security operations with warships from several participating nations. On November 12, the cruiser cooperated with the Italian frigate ITS LIBECCIO in the investigation of suspicious vessels in the Gulf of Aden. The operation included coordinated surveillance and interception procedures.

On November 17, 2009, CHOSIN rescued three Yemeni fishermen who had been left in the water after suspected pirates seized their fishing vessel. The men were found clinging to a piece of wood in the Gulf of Aden. CHOSIN dispatched a boat crew to recover them and provided medical assistance, food, and water. The incident occurred during the cruiser's counter-piracy patrol as flagship of Combined Task Force 151. CHOSIN continued counter-piracy and maritime-security operations during the remainder of the deployment. After completing her assignments in the region, the cruiser returned through the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The deployment also included a visit to Hong Kong in February 2010 with other units of the USS NIMITZ Carrier Strike Group. CHOSIN returned to Pearl Harbor on March 18, 2010.

In June 2010, CHOSIN visited Esquimalt, British Columbia, during activities marking the centennial of the Royal Canadian Navy. The cruiser subsequently participated in RIMPAC 2010 in Hawaiian waters. During the exercise, CHOSIN conducted air-defense training and live-fire weapons exercises. On July 10, 2010, she launched an RGM-84 Harpoon antiship missile during a scheduled live-fire event.

Following RIMPAC, CHOSIN entered a period of maintenance and modernization at Pearl Harbor. On December 9, 2010, the cruiser entered Dry Dock 4 at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility for a Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. The maintenance period included work on machinery, hull systems, and equipment associated with the Navy's cruiser modernization efforts. CHOSIN departed dry dock on July 6, 2011, and subsequently resumed testing and training.

During the remainder of 2011 and the first half of 2012, CHOSIN conducted operational evaluations, engineering training, and combat-system exercises. On April 3, 2012, Captain Patrick M. Kelly relieved Captain David J. Sheridan as commanding officer during a ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

During July 2012, CHOSIN participated in RIMPAC 2012, an international exercise held in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The exercise involved surface warfare, air defense, communications, maritime interception, and combined naval operations with participating foreign forces. Following RIMPAC, CHOSIN resumed maintenance and preparations for her next overseas deployment.

After completing readiness inspections in April 2013, CHOSIN departed Pearl Harbor on April 30 for an independent Western Pacific deployment under the Mid-Pacific Surface Combatant Operational Employment program. The deployment was intended to provide an American naval presence in the region and included exercises and operational activities with allied and partner navies. On May 4, 2013, CHOSIN entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility. During May, the cruiser operated with Carrier Strike Group Eleven, centered on USS NIMITZ. Other ships participating in the formation included USS PRINCETON and USS PREBLE (DDG 88). On May 11, CHOSIN arrived at Busan, South Korea, with the carrier strike group. The visit took place during the 60th anniversary year of the United States-Republic of Korea security alliance.

Following the visit, CHOSIN participated in combined naval exercises with the Republic of Korea Navy on May 13-14, operating alongside USS NIMITZ, USS PRINCETON, and USS PREBLE. The exercises included tactical maneuvering, communications, and maritime warfare training in international waters near the Korean Peninsula. CHOSIN subsequently resumed her wider Western Pacific deployment.

During the following months, CHOSIN visited a number of ports in East and Southeast Asia. These included Sasebo, Japan, from May 31 to June 7, and Subic Bay in the Philippines beginning June 12. Further operations and visits included Yokosuka, Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. During the deployment, the cruiser conducted exercises and maritime-security activities with regional naval forces.

In late September 2013, CHOSIN proceeded toward Australia for participation in the International Fleet Review. The event commemorated the centenary of the first entry of the Royal Australian Navy's fleet into Sydney Harbour in October 1913. CHOSIN arrived in Sydney on October 4, 2013, joining more than twenty international warships and Australian naval vessels assembled for the commemorative events. The fleet review included ceremonial activities and a naval display attended by representatives of participating nations.

Following the International Fleet Review, CHOSIN continued operations and multinational exercises in Australian waters. The deployment included additional visits to Australian ports and a stop at Guam during the return voyage across the Pacific. CHOSIN arrived at Pearl Harbor on November 22, 2013, completing nearly seven months away from homeport.

On February 27, 2014, the Royal Canadian Navy replenishment ship HMCS PROTECTEUR (AOR 509) experienced a major engine-room fire while returning to Canada across the Pacific. The fire disabled the ship approximately 340 nautical miles from Hawaii, leaving her with limited propulsion and electrical capabilities. American naval forces were directed to assist in the recovery operation. USS MICHAEL MURPHY (DDG 112) was the first American warship to reach the damaged Canadian vessel. CHOSIN subsequently arrived and provided additional assistance. The cruiser delivered food and drinking water by helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 37 and established a towing connection with PROTECTEUR. CHOSIN then began towing the disabled replenishment ship toward Hawaii.

On March 2, 2014, the fleet ocean tug USNS SIOUX (T-ATF 171) took over the towing operation. CHOSIN remained in company as the Canadian ship continued toward Pearl Harbor. USS MICHAEL MURPHY transported nineteen family members and civilian contractors, together with an injured Canadian sailor, back to Hawaii. On March 6, PROTECTEUR, CHOSIN, and USNS SIOUX arrived safely at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

In June 2014, CHOSIN led a multinational group sail from Guam to Hawaii in preparation for RIMPAC 2014. Captain Patrick Kelly, the cruiser's commanding officer, served as commander of the formation, which included nine ships from the United States, China, Singapore, and Brunei. The American ships included CHOSIN and USS HOWARD (DDG 83). Chinese participants included the destroyer HAIKOU, frigate YUEYANG, replenishment ship QIANDAOHU, and hospital ship PEACE ARK.

During the transit, the multinational formation conducted shiphandling, communications, personnel exchanges, and weapons training. The ships arrived at Pearl Harbor on June 24, 2014. RIMPAC 2014 was the first edition of the exercise in which the navies of China and Brunei participated. CHOSIN subsequently took part in the exercise in Hawaiian waters.

In October 2014, CHOSIN participated in San Francisco Fleet Week. The cruiser was among the ships opened to visitors during the event, together with USS KIDD (DDG 100) and the newly commissioned amphibious assault ship USS AMERICA (LHA 6). The event included ship tours, public demonstrations, and activities involving civilian authorities and the sea services.

On June 6, 2015, CHOSIN received the Canadian Forces Unit Commendation for her assistance to HMCS PROTECTEUR the previous year. The award was presented during the Portland Rose Festival Fleet Week in Oregon by Rear Admiral Bill Truelove of the Royal Canadian Navy. The commendation recognized the assistance provided by the cruiser's crew during the recovery of the disabled Canadian replenishment ship. USNS SIOUX received the same Canadian commendation during a separate ceremony at Naval Base San Diego on June 16.

During the following months, CHOSIN continued operations and training from Pearl Harbor while preparations were made for her entry into the Navy's Cruiser Phased Modernization Program. The program was intended to extend the operational service lives of selected TICONDEROGA-class cruisers through extensive maintenance and modernization of their engineering, combat, and support systems.

On March 22, 2016, the Navy announced that CHOSIN would change her homeport from Pearl Harbor to San Diego as part of the modernization program. The cruiser departed Pearl Harbor on March 25, ending approximately twenty-five years of homeport assignment in Hawaii. Under the Navy's administrative arrangements, CHOSIN remained in deployment status until her official homeport change to San Diego took effect on July 1, 2016.

After arriving in Southern California, CHOSIN entered a reduced operational status for modernization. The ship was maintained by a smaller crew while extensive repairs and system upgrades were planned. The initial stages included maintenance and Selected Restricted Availabilities at facilities in the San Diego area. During 2017 and 2018, CHOSIN underwent further maintenance at Continental Maritime of San Diego. The work formed part of the phased modernization process and included repairs and preparations for subsequent larger shipyard availabilities. By 2019, the cruiser remained assigned to the program and was awaiting additional extensive work on her hull, machinery, electrical equipment, and combat systems.

In February 2020, CHOSIN arrived under tow at Vigor's Harbor Island shipyard in Seattle, Washington, for a major Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. The modernization involved the ship's engineering plant, mechanical and electrical systems, hull structure, and equipment associated with the AEGIS combat system. The work was performed by Vigor, U.S. Navy maintenance organizations, and subcontractors. On November 2, 2020, the Navy announced a homeport change from San Diego to Everett, Washington, while CHOSIN continued her modernization in Seattle. The change placed the cruiser closer to the facilities supporting the extended maintenance period. The ship remained in commission with a reduced crew while administrative responsibility for modernization was exercised through Naval Sea Systems Command.

During 2021 and 2022, CHOSIN remained at Vigor's Harbor Island facility. The cruiser was undocked on June 3, 2021, and moved to a pier for continued modernization work. Additional repairs, equipment installation, and systems testing continued throughout the following year. Although the original modernization program had anticipated a considerably shorter period out of operational service, CHOSIN remained in the shipyard while the work was completed.

On February 17, 2023, Captain James M. Williams relieved Captain Christina L. Dalmau as commanding officer of CHOSIN. On February 28, Vigor completed its principal modernization work and CHOSIN was moved without using her own propulsion from the Harbor Island shipyard to Naval Station Everett. The three-year shipyard project had involved more than 1.7 million labor hours by Vigor employees, in addition to work performed by Navy personnel and subcontractors.

During the remainder of 2023, CHOSIN remained in Washington while the crew conducted equipment restoration, maintenance, and preparations for renewed operations at sea. The work included restoration of shipboard repair capabilities and training associated with equipment that had been inactive during the extended modernization. Preparations also continued for the cruiser's return to San Diego, which was again designated as her homeport. On February 10, 2024, CHOSIN got underway for sea trials following the prolonged modernization period. The trials included testing and evaluation of the ship's propulsion, engineering, navigation, and combat-related systems. After proceeding south along the Pacific coast, CHOSIN arrived at Naval Base San Diego on February 15, 2024, marking her physical return to her assigned homeport after approximately four years in Washington.

During the following months, CHOSIN conducted additional sea trials, training, maintenance, and certification activities off Southern California. The cruiser returned to sea on several occasions during April and May while the crew continued restoring operational proficiency and evaluating systems affected by the modernization. Further underway periods followed during the summer.

On October 11, 2024, CHOSIN participated in the U.S. Navy's first successful demonstration of transferring and loading a missile canister into a warship's vertical launching system while both ships were underway at sea. The demonstration was conducted off San Diego in cooperation with the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS WASHINGTON CHAMBERS (T-AKE 11). The experiment used the Transferrable Reload At-sea Method, known as TRAM, developed to allow missile-equipped warships to replenish their vertical launch systems without returning to port. During the demonstration, an empty missile canister was transferred from USNS WASHINGTON CHAMBERS to CHOSIN and loaded into a Mk 41 Vertical Launching System cell using a hydraulically operated mechanism. The experiment followed an earlier land-based demonstration conducted at Naval Surface Warfare Center Port Hueneme Division during the summer of 2024. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro observed the at-sea demonstration.

On November 4, 2024, the Department of the Navy announced that CHOSIN would receive a service-life extension, together with USS GETTYSBURG (CG 64) and USS CAPE ST. GEORGE (CG 71). The decision provided for continued operational service by the three modernized cruisers beyond their previously anticipated retirement dates. The Navy stated that the extensions would add a combined ten years of service life across the three ships during fiscal years 2026 through 2029.

During the early months of 2025, CHOSIN conducted training and operational activities in the eastern Pacific. The cruiser subsequently proceeded toward Central America in support of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. Fourth Fleet activities. On March 29, 2025, CHOSIN conducted an underway replenishment with the Peruvian Navy replenishment ship TACNA in the eastern Pacific. The evolution formed part of bilateral naval cooperation and provided an opportunity for personnel from the two countries to practice replenishment procedures and communications while at sea.

In early April 2025, CHOSIN arrived at Panama City, Panama, for a port visit associated with the Central American Security Conference 2025. On April 7, the cruiser hosted a reception for Panamanian government officials, foreign dignitaries, and senior American representatives. The reception was co-hosted by Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, and John M. Barrett, Charge d'Affaires at the United States Embassy in Panama. Captain Robert McFarlin IV, commanding officer of CHOSIN, received the visitors aboard the cruiser.

The conference brought together representatives of Central American nations and the United States to discuss regional security, cooperation, and common maritime challenges. The ship's visit also included tours and engagements with representatives of the host nation. Following the activities in Panama, CHOSIN continued her assigned operations and subsequently returned to the San Diego area.

During the second half of 2025, CHOSIN conducted further training, maintenance, and operational preparations with Pacific Fleet surface forces. The cruiser became part of Carrier Strike Group Nine, centered on USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71). In October and November, CHOSIN participated in integrated training with the carrier strike group and other naval units operating off Southern California. During January and February 2026, CHOSIN conducted maintenance and combat-system preparations, including a visit to the facilities at Port Hueneme, California. Further operational training followed during March and April. By April, the cruiser was operating with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group in the U.S. Third Fleet area of responsibility. The training included integrated combat-system operations, communications, navigation, and other activities intended to prepare the formation for an overseas deployment.

During June and July 2026, CHOSIN participated in RIMPAC 2026, the thirtieth exercise in the series, conducted in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The exercise brought together naval forces from thirty countries and included surface ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground forces. CHOSIN operated with the American contingent led by USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT. Other participating American surface combatants included USS PAUL HAMILTON (DDG 60), USS DECATUR (DDG 73), USS WAYNE E. MEYER (DDG 108), and USS CARL M. LEVIN (DDG 120).

On July 12, 2026, CHOSIN conducted an underway replenishment with the fleet oiler USNS GUADALUPE (T-AO 200) while operating in company with USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT. The replenishment took place during the at-sea phase of RIMPAC. CHOSIN continued participating in multinational naval exercises and operational training during the remainder of July.

Following RIMPAC, CHOSIN resumed preparations for an overseas deployment with Carrier Strike Group Nine. In late September 2026, the formation departed Southern California for operations in the western Pacific. The strike group included USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, CHOSIN, and USS DECATUR, together with embarked aviation units and supporting forces. CHOSIN performed air-defense and escort duties within the formation during the westbound transit.

On October 16, 2026, CHOSIN arrived at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, in company with USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT and USS DECATUR. The ships entered port for routine maintenance, resupply, and preparations for Exercise Keen Sword 27, a major bilateral American-Japanese military exercise with participation by additional allied nations. Following the port visit, the strike group returned to sea for Keen Sword 27, which began on October 19. On October 21, 2026, CHOSIN participated in multinational formation operations in the Philippine Sea with USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT and warships from Japan, Australia, Canada, and France. The participating units included the Japanese helicopter destroyer JS ISE, Japanese destroyers JS KONGO and JS ASAHI, the Australian frigate HMAS STUART, and the Canadian frigate HMCS REGINA. The exercise included coordinated maritime operations and interoperability training among American and allied naval forces.

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Homeports of USS CHOSIN:

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USS CHOSIN Image Gallery:

The photo below was taken by me and shows the CHOSIN at Pearl Harbor, Hi., on March 14, 2008. Note the two gun mounts installed aboard next to the helo deck.

The photo below was taken by Shiu On Yee and shows the CHOSIN anchored at Hong Kong. CHOSIN and other units of the NIMITZ (CVN 68) Strike Group visited Hong Kong from February 17-20, 2010, during their WestPac Cruise.

The photo below was taken by me and shows the CHOSIN at Pearl Harbor, Hi., on March 8, 2012.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning on October 12, 2014, during an open house aboard USS Chosin (CG 65) as part of Fleet Week San Francisco.

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The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the CHOSIN at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on April 18, 2016. The photos were taken just a few days after CHOSIN entered the Navy's Cruiser Phased Modernization Program. The ship will later undergo modernization and return to service by 2021, replacing an older sistership. The program follows a 2-4-6 plan meaning that each year no more than two cruisers will be placed in phased modernization; no cruiser will remain in phased modernization for more than 4 years; and no more than six cruisers may be in phased modernization at the same time. During the lay up, the ship is maintained by a small 45-sailor crew.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the CHOSIN laid up at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on October 6, 2016.

The photo below was taken by Sebastian Thoma and shows the CHOSIN laid up at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on December 20, 2016.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the CHOSIN undergoing her special Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at the Continental Maritime Shipyard in San Diego, Calif., on October 11, 2017.

The photo below was taken by Sebastian Thoma and shows the CHOSIN undergoing her special Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at the Continental Maritime Shipyard in San Diego, Calif., on November 10, 2017.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the CHOSIN undergoing her special Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at the Continental Maritime Shipyard in San Diego, Calif., on December 29, 2017.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the CHOSIN still undergoing her special Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at the Continental Maritime Shipyard in San Diego, Calif., on September 28, 2018.

The photo below was taken by Michael Jenning and shows the CHOSIN still undergoing her special Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) at the Continental Maritime Shipyard in San Diego, Calif., on March 2, 2019.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the CHOSIN undergoing an Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability (E-DSRA) at Vigor Shipyards, Seattle, Wash., on June 12, 2022. CHOSIN arrived under tow from San Diego, Calif., at Seattle in February 2020.

The photos below were taken by me and show USS CHOSIN - now fully operational again - at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on July 26, 2024.

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