10 Facts About The Uss Benfold Ddg 65

The USS Benfold (DDG-65) is a significant naval asset that has played a crucial role in various military operations and international relations. As a part of the United States Navy's Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, the USS Benfold has been involved in numerous deployments, exercises, and humanitarian missions.

Here are ten facts about the USS Benfold (DDG-65):

1. Commissioned in 1996: The USS Benfold was commissioned on March 30, 1996, at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. The ship was named after Edward C. Benfold, a Hospital Corpsman Third Class who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War.

2. Homeported in San Diego: The USS Benfold is currently homeported at Naval Base San Diego, California, and is part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Deployments and Exercises

The USS Benfold has participated in numerous deployments and exercises, showcasing its capabilities and versatility as a naval asset.

3. First Deployment: The USS Benfold's first deployment was in 1998, when it sailed to the Mediterranean Sea as part of the USS George Washington (CVN-73) Carrier Battle Group. During this deployment, the ship participated in exercises with NATO forces and conducted port visits in several countries.

4. Operation Enduring Freedom: In 2001, the USS Benfold was deployed to the Arabian Sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The ship played a crucial role in providing air defense and supporting maritime interdiction operations.

5. Exercise Talisman Saber: In 2015, the USS Benfold participated in Exercise Talisman Saber, a biennial exercise conducted by the U.S. and Australian navies. The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability and strengthen the partnership between the two nations.

Humanitarian Missions

The USS Benfold has also been involved in several humanitarian missions, demonstrating its ability to provide aid and assistance in times of need.

6. Operation Unified Assistance: In 2004, the USS Benfold was deployed to the Indian Ocean in support of Operation Unified Assistance, a humanitarian mission aimed at providing aid to countries affected by the devastating tsunami.

7. Typhoon Haiyan Relief: In 2013, the USS Benfold was part of the U.S. Navy's relief efforts following Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines. The ship provided logistical support and humanitarian aid to affected areas.

Crew and Command

The USS Benfold has a crew of approximately 300 sailors, who are responsible for operating and maintaining the ship.

8. Command Structure: The USS Benfold is commanded by a commanding officer, who is responsible for the overall operation and administration of the ship. The commanding officer is supported by a team of department heads, who oversee various aspects of the ship's operations.

9. Crew Training: The USS Benfold's crew undergoes rigorous training to prepare for various scenarios, including combat, humanitarian missions, and port visits. The crew's training is designed to ensure they can operate effectively and safely in a variety of situations.

Awards and Recognition

The USS Benfold has received several awards and recognition for its outstanding performance and service.

10. Battle Efficiency Award: In 2018, the USS Benfold received the Battle Efficiency Award, which recognizes the ship's outstanding performance in various areas, including combat readiness, safety, and community service.

We hope you found these facts about the USS Benfold (DDG-65) informative and interesting. The ship's service history and achievements are a testament to the dedication and hard work of its crew.

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Gallery of USS Benfold (DDG-65) Images

USS Benfold (DDG-65) Image Gallery