The USS Florida departs on first deployment

Ariticle and picture from www.kingsbayperiscope.com

 

USS Florida (SSGN 72 departs Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay April 26 for its first operational deployment after undergoing conversion from a ballistic missile capable submarine (SSBN) to a guided missile submarine (SSGN). The normal patrol for an SSBN is about three months. As an SSGN, Florida will be deployed for approximately twelve months. Florida departed with her blue crew, led by Capt. William Traub. The blue crew will rotate duties every three months with the gold crew, led by Capt. John Litherland, during the deployment. The use of two crews allows Florida to have a greater forward presence and the conversion from ballistic missiles to guided missiles allows for greater payload capacity and mission flexibility. Photo by MC2(AW/SW) Kimberly Clifford

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