USS St. Louis (LCS 19) Triumphantly Concludes First Mission with Fourth Fleet

The USS St. Louis has concluded an eight-month deployment, running from June 15, 2024, to February 24, 2025, highlighting several key achievements in naval operations. This deployment underscores the capabilities of the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) platform in modern maritime scenarios.

During its time with TASK FORCE 45/Destroyer Squadron 40, primarily in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean, USS St. Louis embarked on multiple successful missions. Partnering with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 50 Detachment 4 and U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachments, the operations disrupted over $100 million in illicit contraband, striking a blow to transnational criminal organizations.

Cmdr. T.J. Orth, the commanding officer of USS St. Louis, praised the crew’s resilience and tactical expertise, emphasizing their success in nighttime interceptions of illicit traffickers. The dedication of the crew enabled significant results during the deployment.

August marked a historic moment for the USS St. Louis as it became the first Freedom-variant LCS to operate as far south as Valparaíso, Chile. It participated in the 65th UNITAS, a multinational maritime exercise, working with naval forces from 44 countries, and demonstrated its interoperability and commitment to enhancing regional stability.

Furthering its mission, USS St. Louis supported the deteriorating security situation in Haiti by assisting the U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Task Force-Bravo. Serving as a fueling station and search and rescue force, the ship conducted over 50 deck landings with the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment UH-60 Blackhawks, exemplifying its operational versatility and potential for joint missions.

In its final venture, the crew of USS St. Louis rapidly deployed to support Joint Task Force Operation Southern Guard at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. This involved establishing infrastructure to accommodate up to 2,000 illegal aliens, showcasing effective interagency collaboration under the supervision of the Department of Homeland Security.

Cmdr. Lee Shewmake, USS St. Louis’ executive officer, noted the significance of this deployment as a first for the ship. The crew’s adaptability and the LCS platform’s potential were proven throughout their mission. Master Chief Roderick Bolton praised the crew’s professionalism and their contributions to the future of LCS operations.

The USS St. Louis’ deployment results in a profound impact on naval strategy, emphasizing the Littoral Combat Ship’s flexibility in addressing modern warfare challenges and setting a high bar for future missions in the Fourth Fleet Area of Responsibility.