The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell returned to Naval Base San Diego on Oct. 15, following an eight-month deployment with the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group.
Russell and its crew, known as the Red Dragons, departed San Diego on Feb. 10 and joined the Carrier Strike Group to conduct global maritime security operations, including strengthening the U.S. military posture in the Middle East.
“Keeping Russell in its highest state of readiness for eight months
straight is no easy feat, yet our crew of 300 did this with a self-sufficient mindset, grit and determination,” said Cmdr. Mike McInerney, commanding officer of Russell. “We have a proud, combat ready, and battle-minded crew. I’m honored to be part of this fantastic team, and the crew is excited for some well-earned time off with loved ones.”
While deployed, Russell provided primary ballistic missile defense support and secondary air and missile defense support to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. Additionally, Russell executed 161 MH-60 Seahawk helicopter deck hits, to include refueling and personnel and parts transfers.
