Photo By Seaman Jamison Sutton | U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to USS Normandy (CG 60), a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile...... read more read more
NORFOLK, VA (September 25th, 2025) – Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), was recognized for nearly 36 years of naval service during the decommissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 25th, 2025.
Hundreds gathered to celebrate the ship’s distinguished history of naval service. Normandy’s Commanding Officer Capt. Nathan P. Diaz spoke of the ship’s legacy and its crew.
“The final chapter in Normandy’s rich history comes to an end,” said Capt. Diaz. “Her spirit, what truly brings the ship to life, lives on inside every one of her Sailors. I’m proud to be a part of her legacy, leading by example to all ships on the waterfront and showing them what right looks like.”
U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Derek Trinque, Director, Surface Warfare Division N96, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, delivered the keynote address, offering words of encouragement to the crew and reflecting on the ship's proud legacy. "Normandy has launched in combat, trained with allies and partners, responded in crisis, and stood ready for the call—always," said Rear Adm. Trinque. “Today, she comes to rest with pride, with dignity, with a record unmatched, and a legacy that will never be forgotten.”
USS Normandy participated in a multitude of operations and exercises, contributing significantly to U.S. naval power projection and security. From enforcing no-fly zones to conducting maritime security operations, the ship demonstrated versatility and capability across a range of mission profiles.
One of the notable milestones in Normandy's history was that she was the first U.S. Navy warship since 1945 to go to war on her maiden voyage. Tasked with providing air defense and maritime security, the ship played a vital role in the early stages of the Gulf War, showcasing the Navy's ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats and support the multinational effort to free Kuwait.
The ship's prowess was further demonstrated during Operation Deliberate Force, where she launched 13 tomahawk missiles at various Bosnian-Serb command and control sites. From conducting long range precision strikes, enforcing a naval blockade, and providing humanitarian relief, USS Normandy contributed to the success of coalition efforts to stabilize Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Additionally, the ship played a key role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, providing aid to regions devastated by natural disasters such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. These operations underscored the Navy's commitment to global stability and humanitarian values.
The first ship to bear the name, Normandy was built in Bath, Maine, and commissioned December 9th, 1989, in Newport, Rhode Island. Named after the pivotal Allied invasion at Normandy, France during World War II, the ship has faithfully served the nation for more than three decades, embodying the valor and resilience of the legendary landings that led to a liberated Europe.
After the decommissioning and inactivation, the ship will be towed to the Navy’s Inactive Ship facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where it will be in a Logistic Support Asset (LSA) status.
COMNAVSURFLANT mans, trains, and equips assigned surface forces and shore activities, ensuring a capable force for conducting prompt and sustained operations in support of United States national interests. The SURFLANT force is composed of 71 ships and 31 shore commands.
For more SURFLANT news and photos, visit Facebook.com/SURFLANT, www.surflant.usff.navy.mil.
| Date Taken: | 09.25.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.26.2025 11:10 |
| Story ID: | 549320 |
| Location: | NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 411 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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