Farewell to Naval Titan: USS Leyte Gulf Decommissioned

Over 500 attendees, including plankowners and former crew members, gathered to celebrate the distinguished 37-year naval service of the USS Leyte Gulf. Vice Adm. Eugene Black III, the ship’s 14th commanding officer, served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. He wished the current crew fair winds and following seas as they bid farewell to their ship.

“What a great opportunity to celebrate the Sailors who brought this ship to life, kept her operating at the highest level, and ready for a fight throughout her long and illustrious career of service to our nation,” Black said.

Cmdr. Brian M. Harrington, the ship’s 23rd and final commanding officer, led the final crew through the decommissioning process. He assumed command following Leyte Gulf’s deployment to the Caribbean Sea and South Atlantic earlier this year.

“It’s been an honor to lead America’s Battle Cruiser and her crew through the final chapter in her storied career. This crew accomplished the final mission with professionalism and dedication that honors all Leyte Gulf Sailors, past and present,” Harrington stated.

The ceremony’s atmosphere was one of fond, yet somber remembrance. Black and Harrington shared memories from Leyte Gulf’s 37 years of service, invoking shared laughter from crew members, both past and present.

Built at Ingalls Shipbuilding Corporation in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and commissioned in Port Everglades, Florida, on September 26, 1987, Leyte Gulf’s namesake commemorates the largest naval battle in history, fought from October 23-26, 1944, during World War II.

Since her maiden deployment in 1988, the warship has been a crucial part of America’s national defense strategy, excelling in air defense across 17 global deployments. After decommissioning, the ship will be towed on October 16th to the Navy’s Inactive Ship’s facility in Philadelphia, Pa., where it will maintain a Logistical Support Asset status.