Introduction to the USS Cole
The USS Cole (DDG-67) is an Arlleigh Burke-class destroyer of the United States Navy. The ship is named after Sergeant Darrell S. Cole, a United States Marine who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. The USS Cole is known for being the target of a terrorist attack in 2000, which resulted in significant damage and loss of life.
Construction and Commissioning
The USS Cole was commissioned on June 8, 1996, at Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship was built by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and is the 17th ship of the Arlleigh Burke class. The USS Cole is 505 feet long, with a beam of 66 feet, and displaces approximately 9,200 tons of water. The ship has a crew of around 300 sailors and is equipped with Aegis Combat System and Harpoon missiles.
Terrorist Attack
On October 12, 2000, the USS Cole was attacked by al-Qaeda militants while the ship was refueling at a port in Aden, Yemen. The attack involved two suicide bombers who detonated explosives on a small boat that was alongside the ship. The blast created a 35-foot hole in the ship’s hull, killing 17 American sailors and injuring 39 others. The attack was a significant terrorist incident and led to a major overhaul of the United States’ maritime security measures.
Repair and Refurbishment
After the attack, the USS Cole underwent extensive repairs at the Pascagoula shipyard. The repair effort took around 14 months to complete and cost over $250 million. The ship was restored to its original condition, with additional security measures and upgrades to prevent similar attacks in the future. The USS Cole returned to service in April 2002 and has since participated in several military operations and exercises around the world.
Current Status
Today, the USS Cole remains an active part of the United States Navy’s fleet. The ship is homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, and is assigned to the Destroyer Squadron 22. The USS Cole has participated in several deployments to the Middle East and Africa, and has been involved in various maritime security and counter-piracy operations. The ship’s crew continues to play an important role in maintaining global maritime security and protecting American interests abroad.
🚨 Note: The USS Cole's story serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime security and the sacrifices made by sailors and their families.
In summary, the USS Cole is a significant part of the United States Navy’s fleet, with a rich history that includes a devastating terrorist attack and a remarkable recovery. The ship’s crew continues to play a vital role in maintaining global maritime security, and the USS Cole remains a powerful symbol of American strength and resilience.
What is the USS Cole named after?
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The USS Cole is named after Sergeant Darrell S. Cole, a United States Marine who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II.
Where was the USS Cole attacked?
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The USS Cole was attacked by al-Qaeda militants while the ship was refueling at a port in Aden, Yemen, on October 12, 2000.
What is the current status of the USS Cole?
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The USS Cole remains an active part of the United States Navy’s fleet, homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, and assigned to the Destroyer Squadron 22.
