The USS Sampson is scheduled to arrive at Naval Station Everett tomorrow as the Navy continues to replace frigates decommissioned over the last couple of years. No word on exact arrival time but thanks to Kristin Ching at Naval Station Everett, here’s a bit more information about the latest ship to call Everett home. You can also check out the Sampson’s Facebook page here.
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Sampson (DDG 102) is scheduled to arrive at its new homeport of Naval Station Everett, Sept. 26.Sampson is the second of four destroyers the Navy announced will shift homeport to Everett throughout the next year.
Sampson was formerly homeported at Naval Base San Diego. The ship’s crew of approximately 325 sailors will be relocating to the area, many with their families.
“The crew has dedicated so much time in preparation for this move,” said Sampson Commanding Officer Cmdr. Timothy LaBenz. “Naval Station Everett and the surrounding areas have a great deal to offer these sailors, and we are thrilled to be joining the Pacific Northwest team.”
Sampson Command Master Chief David Dirks said the command has tried to make the relocation process, as seamless as possible for the sailors and their families, setting aside time for the families to get situated after moving to Everett.
“It will be great to finally pull into our new homeport and see all of the sailors hard work pay off,” Dirks said.
The Navy announced in September 2015 that USS Gridley (DDG 101), USS Sampson (DDG 102), and USS Kidd (DDG 100) would replace three decommissioned Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates at Naval Station Everett. Gridley completed its homeport shift to Everett in July.
In March 2016, the Navy announced Pre-Commissioning Unit Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) would also be assigned to Everett. Its commissioning is projected for 2017.
The Navy continually monitors and adjusts the location of its forces to protect and defend national security interests. The Navy’s replacement of retired frigates with newer, more technologically advanced destroyers in Everett demonstrates greater capabilities and capacity for maritime forces in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
Naval Station Everett’s key mission is to provide a secure platform for Navy and Coast Guard forces, important mission capabilities, and quality of life for service members and their families. The base provides assistance to its homeported ships such as transition services, family programs, and community resources to help them get settled in their new home.
September 25, 2016
Everett