USS Carney: A Valiant Destroyer in Battle

WASHINGTON – On October 19, 2023, an ordinary day transformed dramatically for the crew of USS Carney (DDG 64) as they navigated the Red Sea during their deployment to the 5th Fleet’s area of responsibility. By late afternoon, the ship was engaged in unexpected combat operations.

The turning point came when an announcement to “clear the weatherdecks” reverberated through the ship’s 1MC intercom system. “I’d never heard that before,” said Fire Controlman (AEGIS) 2nd Class Justin Parker, a radar technician on board. Almost immediately, the sound of missiles launching and the ship’s 5-inch gun firing filled the air, indicating an unprecedented situation.

Gunner’s Mate 1st Class Charles Currie, also aboard the USS Carney, described the experience as intensely filled with adrenaline. The crew found themselves confronting a real-world threat, having only trained for such scenarios before. Over a intense 10-hour period, the Carney shot down 15 drones and four land-attack cruise missiles launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The vessel had left its homeport of Naval Station Mayport in Florida on September 27, aiming for a standard deployment. However, after the devastating Hamas terror attacks on Israel on October 7, the crew sensed that their mission could take an unexpected turn.

Following Israel’s military response in Gaza, Houthi rebels commenced attacks against civilian ships in the Red Sea, aiming to disrupt trade. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby condemned the attacks as terrorism and assured that the U.S. would take necessary actions to defend international waters.

After the initial engagement on October 17, the USS Carney remained vigilant, ending its deployment with 51 combat incidents. Lt. j.g. Haven Vickers attributed the crew’s success to rigorous training and unity among shipmates. Ens. William Hinckley emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of others during such engagements.

Upon returning home on May 10, 2024, the entire crew received the Combat Action Ribbon, marking the first such recognition since the Gulf War in 1991. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti lauded the crew’s efforts and acknowledged their significant contributions to maritime security.

Reflecting on the historic mission, OSC Noah Wicks expressed pride in their achievements, while many crewmembers, like Fire Controlman 2nd Class Kameron Miller, recognized the profound impact of their actions on a global scale. “It was a reminder of why we serve,” Miller said, underscoring the mission’s rewarding nature and the critical role they played in safeguarding lives.