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thedrifter
09-26-07, 02:44 PM
After 37 years of service, amphibious transport dock is retired

By LOUIS HANSEN, The Virginian-Pilot
September 26, 2007 | Last updated 1:14 PM Sep. 26

NORFOLK

The amphibious transport dock Shreveport was decommissioned today during a ceremony at Norfolk Naval Station.

The ship, used to transport Marines and their equipment, was commissioned in December, 1970, and made its first deployment about two years later. The Shreveport served in operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

Its recent missions include supporting relief after Hurricane Katrina and deploying twice to the Persian Gulf.

During its 37 years of service, the ship provided a home for more than 5,000 sailors and 6,000 Marines, according to the Navy. The ship was commanded by Capt. Paul Monger.


Louis Hansen, (757) 446-2322,

louis.hansen@pilotonline.com

Ellie

thedrifter
09-26-07, 06:36 PM
NORFOLK, VA
U.S.S. Shreveport Decommissioned After 37 Years In Service

Sep 26, 2007 05:42 PM


The thought of losing her, was too much for some. "She's a part of my life..It's very emotional."

She's known as the Super Gator, and she's been a part of thousands of sailors lives for almost 40 years. Her job was simple, deliver Marines to the heart of the battle. Wednesday morning in Norfolk, VA, the crew of the USS Shreveport came to say goodbye, one last time.

Shreveport Mayor Cedric Glover was on hand for the service, and says recent crewmembers he spoke with all say, their best work, came during relief efforts during Hurricane Katrina two years ago. " They expressed that was one of the most significant parts about their time and service in the military."

Petty Officer Fire Controlman Second Class Samuel Taylor agrees. Taylor is from the Alexandria area, and says one of the reasons he chose the ship, was because of where he was from. Taylor is a member on the ship, and says being able to the residents from his home state was a great honor. " We helped in St. Bernard Parish area. We helped clean up their courthouse and high school."And for anybody who's never seen the Shreveport up close and personal, Mayor Glover says there's nothing small about it. " It's a much, much bigger vessel than i could ever imagine."

And as one of her own, this former sailor bids you fair winds and following seas.

Story by Jonathan McCall

Ellie