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USS Louisville Returns From Western Pacific Deployment

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS051117-05
Release Date: 11/17/2005 10:04:00 AM

By Chief Journalist (SW/AW) David Rush, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (NNS) -- Following a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific, the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Louisville (SSN 724) returned to its homeport of Pearl Harbor Nov. 16.

The Los Angeles-class submarine departed Pearl Harbor May 16. During its deployment, the submarine visited Yokosuka, Japan; Brisbane, Australia; Guam and Saipan. In June, the submarine participated in exercise Talisman Sabre off of the coast of Australia.

According to Cmdr. David Kirk, Louisville’s commanding officer, his submariners performed very well.

“We had an exceptional deployment," he said. "The crew performed superbly, and we accomplished every mission task.”

Kirk added that they were involved in various exercises during the deployment.

“We participated in several multinational exercises. We were fortunate to go to Australia and participate in Talisman Sabre. We were also involved in the SHAREM (Ship Antisubmarine warfare Readiness and Evaluation Measurement) exercises with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force.”

Machinist's Mate 1st Class Edward Daminco was glad that the deployment seemed to go by quickly.

“It went by quicker than when it started," he said. "The port visits to Australia and Saipan were really good.”

Daminco's wife was delighted to have her submariner home.

“Words cannot describe it. It’s good to have him home, and I’m happy he’s safe," she said. "We’re looking forward to celebrating the holidays together.”

Louisville has a crew of 20 officers and 137 enlisted men. It displaces more than 6,900 tons, is 360 feet long, and can reach speeds in excess of 25 knots and attain depths of more than 800 feet.

Commissioned in 1986, Louisville is the 35th Los Angeles-class submarine. It made history in 1991 during Operation Desert Storm when it became the first submarine to launch a Tomahawk cruise missile in war.