USS Boise Returns to Naval Station Norfolk

The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Boise (SSN 764) returned to Naval Station Norfolk from a regularly scheduled deployment Nov. 8.

Boise, commanded by Cmdr. Brian Sittlow, returned from the European Command Area of Responsibility where it executed the nation’s maritime strategy in supporting national security interests and maritime security operations.

Boise left Naval Station Norfolk May 2 and during the deployment, steamed more than 37,000 nautical miles, conducting port visits to Bergen, Norway; Faslane, Scotland; and Lisbon, Portugal.

“Boise conducted operations in the European Command Area of Responsibility, which includes the waters of the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea,” said Sittlow. “We conducted several multinational exercises that included many different NATO countries. These exercises, along with other independent operations, sustained our allied maritime presences and ensured our sustained national security throughout the world.

“We are very proud to return home from our 2012 deployment on the week of our 20th anniversary of our commissioning on Nov.7, 1992,” said Sittlow. “Our thoughts drift back to all the great deployments that this ship has conducted with its present and former crews. It is a big moment for us and the city of Boise.

“The crew’s performance on deployment was superb. Not only did they operate the ship in a safe and secure manner, but their role as true American ambassadors during port visits continued to solidify our welcomed presence everywhere we went. We are grateful to be returning from a successful deployment to spend time with our friends and families, and especially grateful to for the opportunity to enjoy Thanksgiving at home.”

“Nicknamed “A One Ship Fleet,” Boise is the second Navy ship to bear the name of Idaho’s capital city. Built by Newport News Shipbuilding and General Dynamics Electric Boat Division, Boise was commissioned, Nov. 7, 1992. The 360-foot ship has a crew compliment of 15 officers and 128 enlisted Sailors.

Fast-attack submarines like Boise have multifaceted missions. They use their stealth, persistence, agility and firepower to deploy and support special force operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary’s military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity, and ensure undersea superiority.

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Naval Today Staff,November 9, 2012; Image: US Navy