USS America returns to San Diego after 6-year deployment

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The amphibious assault ship USS America arrived to its homeport in San Diego in late September after a six-year deployment in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sailors aboard the USS America were greeted by loved ones when the ship sailed into its new homeport of Naval Base San Diego on Sept. 25, ending a six-year deployment to Sasebo, Japan, and the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 

The USS America (LHA 6) first arrived in Japan in 2019. While deployed, the ship participated in several joint and combined exercises and operations with partners including Japan, Australia, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, New Zealand and Thailand. 

The Navy said the ship also provided crisis response, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response following the eruption of Mt. Bagana in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea.

USS America most recently completed four months of operations in the Western Pacific, where the Navy-Marine Corps team conducted amphibious and surface warfare operations alongside 13 other ships and expeditionary forces from six partner nations during exercise Talisman Sabre.

“The dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice of America's crew is remarkable. From strengthening our partnerships during exercises like Talisman Sabre and Iron Fist, to providing crisis response capabilities, this team has upheld the highest standards of excellence,” said Capt. Ethan Rule, commanding officer of America. “I’m incredibly proud of this ship and the hard work and resilience of the entire crew. This year has been packed with operations amidst moving families from Japan to San Diego. The demands placed on an FDNF warship are rigorous, and team America has proven time and time again that we are up to the challenge. I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”

The Navy said the America crew also conducted novel anti-submarine warfare operations in the Indo-Pacific. A 31st MEU MV-22 Osprey embarked aboard America was the first of its kind to deliver sonobuoys.

“Serving forward deployed is an incredible challenge and honor,” said. Capt. Michael Plageman, executive officer of America. “Our Sailors and Marines rose to that challenge every single day —demonstrating grit, professionalism and teamwork in some of the most dynamic waters in the world. As we return to San Diego, we bring with us not only experience but a legacy of operational excellence.”

America’s crew earned five consecutive Battle Effectiveness awards while forward deployed to U.S. Naval Forces Japan.

America is the lead ship of its class, currently assigned to the U.S. 3rd Fleet and homeported in San Diego.