USS Frank E. Petersen Jr.& USS Michael Murphy Triumphantly Sail Back to Pearl Harbor Post-Deployment

The USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) has showcased its formidable capabilities in recent deployments since July 2024. Comprising advanced naval assets like the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., the strike group departed from San Diego and Pearl Harbor with more than 6,000 Sailors aiming to bolster security and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.

In August 2024, the CSG, in a historic collaboration, executed a multi-large deck event with the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group. This demonstration of allied cooperation underscored the U.S. Navy’s enduring commitment to its global partners.

Prompted by strategic imperative, the strike group was redirected to the U.S. Central Command’s area to amplify military presence in the Middle East. Here, it played a key role in deterring regional threats and safeguarding international maritime routes.

The USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and accompanying destroyers successfully defended against Iranian-backed Houthi attacks while navigating the Bab el-Mandeb strait. The well-coordinated defense operations ensured the vessel’s integrity and no casualties occurred.

Commanding Officer Capt. Kevin Louis lauded the exceptional performance of his crew, emphasizing their resilience during the deployment. Under challenging conditions, the crew executed strategic operations setting benchmarks for future missions.

Frank E. Petersen Jr. notably completed extensive maritime operations, including over 475 hours of flight quarters and 17 replenishments-at-sea. The vessel also advanced the qualifications of many Sailors during this period, reinforcing its operational readiness.

USS Michael Murphy, under Cmdr. Jonathan B. Greenwald, traversed 44,689 nautical miles, representing a testament to the crew’s dedication and prowess. The destroyer completed critical operations across various fleets, contributing to the overall mission success of the strike group.

The leadership teams of both the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and USS Michael Murphy, composed of skilled officers and command chiefs, played pivotal roles in driving these achievements.

The returning destroyers such as USS Michael Murphy bring home proud Sailors whose efforts contributed significantly to maritime security. Meanwhile, other vessels continue their crucial deployments in supporting global security initiatives.

The U.S. 3rd Fleet’s operations in the Indo-Pacific region remain focused on enhancing freedom of navigation and upholding international maritime law, working closely with allied forces to ensure continued peace and stability.