Inception and Naming

The keel of the USS McFaul was laid down on January 26, 1996, at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The ship was launched on January 18, 1997, and christened on April 12, 1997, with Mrs. Marcia Coats, wife of Senator Dan Coats (R-Ind.), serving as the sponsor. This significant milestone marked the beginning of the ship’s journey towards becoming a vital component of the U.S. Navy fleet.

Commissioning and Maiden Deployment

On April 25, 1998, the USS McFaul was commissioned during a ceremony at the Garden City Terminal in Savannah, Georgia. This marked the official entry of the ship into active service, ready to fulfill its mission of protecting American interests and promoting stability across the globe.

In September of the same year, the USS McFaul embarked on its maiden six-month Mediterranean deployment. This deployment showcased the ship’s capabilities and readiness to operate in challenging environments, further solidifying its reputation as a versatile and reliable asset in the U.S. Navy’s arsenal.

Participating in Composite Training Unit Exercises

Composite Training Unit Exercises (COMPTUEX) are an integral part of the USS McFaul’s efforts to maintain operational readiness and improve interoperability with other naval assets. The ship was a member of the Battle Group led by the USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) during COMPTUEX in July 1999. The crew is able to polish their abilities, put their systems to the test, and improve their effectiveness as part of a wider naval force by participation in these exercises.

Mediterranean Deployment and Port Visits

During its deployments, the USS McFaul has had the opportunity to visit various ports and engage in diplomatic interactions with international partners. In November 1999, the ship arrived in Barcelona, Spain, for a scheduled port visit, fostering goodwill and strengthening relationships with Spanish counterparts. In July 2000, the USS McFaul had the honor of participating in the International Naval Review in New York City, a significant event that showcased the maritime capabilities of various nations.

Continued Training and Operations

The USS McFaul continued to participate in training exercises and operations to maintain its combat readiness and effectiveness. In January 2001, the ship underwent COMPTUEX A, followed by COMPTUEX B and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) in the subsequent months. These exercises allowed the crew to refine their skills and integrate seamlessly with other naval units, ensuring their ability to respond to any operational scenario.

Naval Surface Fire Support Qualifications and Missions

In April 2001, the USS McFaul underwent Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) qualifications off Vieques Island, Puerto Rico. These qualifications tested the ship’s ability to provide accurate and effective fire support to ground forces, showcasing the destroyer’s versatility and firepower. The ship also participated in missions supporting Operation Enduring Freedom, launching Tomahawk Land Attack Cruise Missiles (TLAMs) on Taliban forces in Afghanistan.

Port Visits and International Engagements

Throughout its service, the USS McFaul has made port visits to various countries, promoting goodwill and strengthening relationships with international partners. The ship docked in Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, for four days in November 2001, giving the crew a chance to get some rest and familiarize themselves with the local culture. Likewise, the ship visited Gibraltar in November 2001, further showcasing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to international cooperation and alliances.

Return to Homeport and Operational Readiness

The USS McFaul returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia in December 2001 after a six-month deployment in the Areas of Responsibility of the United States Fifth and Sixth Fleets. This marked the end of a successful mission, highlighting the ship’s ability to operate effectively in demanding environments while upholding its commitment to protecting American interests.

Following its return, the USS McFaul underwent various training and maintenance periods to ensure its operational readiness. The ship continued to participate in exercises and operations, maintaining its combat capabilities and standing as a vital asset in the U.S. Navy fleet.

Ongoing Support and Deterrence in the Mediterranean

As part of its mission to promote stability and deter potential adversaries, the USS McFaul has been actively involved in operations in the Mediterranean Sea. The ship regularly operates in the region, contributing to the collective security efforts of the United States and its allies. Recently, the USS McFaul has been stationed in the Eastern Mediterranean to keep Hezbollah and Iran out of Hamas-Israel war. Its presence in the region serves as a visible symbol of U.S. resolve and commitment to supporting its allies.

Over its long existence, the USS McFaul (DDG 74) has protected the seas and supported global operations. From its launch and commissioning to its training and operations, the ship has shown its capabilities and dedication to American interests. The USS McFaul, a Navy workhorse, symbolizes the US’s dedication to protect freedom worldwide.