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USS Alaska Departs Bangor for Final Time

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060718-08
Release Date: 7/18/2006 6:39:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Mary Popejoy, Northwest Region Fleet Public Affairs Center

SILVERDALE, Wash. (NNS) -- After 20 years of service in the Pacific Northwest, USS Alaska (SSBN 732) departed Naval Base Kitsap for the final time July 8.

Alaska is being relocated to the east coast to undergo an engineering refueling overhaul in Norfolk and a new homeport in Kings Bay, Ga.

“It was 20 years ago in this very building, Alaska completed her first strategic onload of C4 missiles," said Capt. Derek Hesse, commodore, Submarine Squadron (CSS) 19. "Her final offload of D5 missiles took place a few days ago in this very building.”

“Alaska was the first Trident to be converted to the D5 missile system in the Pacific and conducted the first D5 missile patrol out here in the Pacific, as well,” he said.

Hesse added that Alaska has had many more successes, every one of which exemplifies the words alert, confident and able.

Alaska’s accomplishments include CSS 19’s Strategic “S” three years in a row; the Tactical “T” for 2004-2005; 2004 Battle “E”; Pacific Fleet’s Retention Award three years in a row; Navy League's Outstanding Trident Award, 2003-2004 and the 2005 Omaha Trophy.

“It’s not just the awards that made Alaska so great, it’s the exceptional performance of every man in the crew, from the captain to the most junior seaman,” said Hesse.

During its time at Naval Base Kitsap, Alaska completed 47 C4 and 12 D5 missile patrols.

“Today, we regrettably say goodbye to one of the finest ships in the submarine force, one which has been an absolute cornerstone of our nation’s defense in the Pacific,” said Hesse.

“Alaska is ready to go. It’s ready to go to overhaul and the east coast to continue serving our country,” said Cmdr. Jon Fahs, commanding officer, Alaska.

Alaska has finished her tour in the Northwest, however the memories made here will always remain.

“It’s been a wonderful home for the ship and crew. I can’t imagine anything better," said Fahs. "It’s definitely with a heavy heart we’ll be leaving this area because many of us have spent a long time here. It’s been very enjoyable, not just because of the area, but the support we’ve received."