USS Boxer LHD-4
The USS Boxer (LHD-4) is a powerhouse of the U.S. Navy, designed to deploy and support Marine Corps forces. Built by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, this ship's journey began with its keel laid on April 8, 1991, and it was launched on August 13, 1993. The construction used cutting-edge techniques to ensure it could handle the demands of modern naval warfare and amphibious operations.
Boxer is a name with history. This is the sixth U.S. Navy ship to carry it, honoring the original HMS Boxer, a British ship captured during the War of 1812. Previous Boxers have seen action in World War II and the Korean War, adding to the name's storied past.
What makes the USS Boxer (LHD-4) stand out? It's big—844 feet long and displacing about 40,500 tons when fully loaded. Its well deck can hold three LCAC hovercraft or other amphibious vehicles. The flight deck? It can handle AV-8B Harrier II jump jets, MV-22 Ospreys, and various helicopters. This versatility allows the Boxer to tackle missions from amphibious assaults to disaster relief.
The Boxer's legacy in the Navy is one of versatility and excellence. Since its commissioning, it's been part of numerous deployments and exercises, proving its power projection and joint operation support capabilities. It's played key roles in operations like Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, cementing its status as a vital asset in amphibious warfare.
Part of the Wasp-class, the USS Boxer is central to amphibious ready groups. These ships are built to embark, transport, and land Marine Air-Ground Task Forces. With advanced command and control, medical facilities, and ample cargo space, the Wasp-class ships are versatile platforms for a range of missions. The Boxer enhances the Navy's amphibious capabilities significantly.
The USS Boxer was commissioned on February 11, 1995, in Pascagoula, Mississippi, with Captain John W. Peterson at the helm. Since then, it's been a distinguished participant in global operations and exercises. The commissioning was a milestone, marking the start of its active service and operational journey in the U.S. Navy.
USS Boxer LHD-4: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Boxer (LHD-4) is a mighty amphibious assault ship, part of the Wasp-class. It's built to handle all sorts of military operations. At 844 feet long and with a beam of 106 feet, it's one of the biggest ships in the U.S. Navy. When fully loaded, it displaces about 41,150 tons. The Boxer has a well deck that can fit three Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) or other amphibious vehicles, making it perfect for getting Marines and their gear right onto enemy shores. Its flight deck is huge, ready for helicopters and V/STOL aircraft like the AV-8B Harrier and the F-35B Lightning II.
Technology-wise, the USS Boxer is packed with cutting-edge systems. It boasts the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS), which ties together sensors and weapons to fend off aerial and surface threats. The radar setup includes the AN/SPS-48E 3D air search radar and the AN/SPS-49(V)5 2D air search radar, giving it a full picture of its surroundings. Plus, it has advanced communication systems like the Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC), letting it share data in real-time with other naval forces for better defense and attack coordination.
When it comes to armament, the USS Boxer is ready to protect itself and its crew. It's armed with two RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) launchers and two RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missile launchers, creating a layered defense against missiles and aircraft. For close-in threats, it has two Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) that can quickly take down incoming dangers with rapid fire. The ship also has several .50 caliber machine guns and 25mm Mk 38 chain guns placed around it to handle small boat threats and other close-range risks.
The Boxer's weaponry is boosted by its aviation capabilities, which add a lot to its flexibility. The flight deck can handle a mix of helicopters like the CH-53E Super Stallion, the MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, and the AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter. These aircraft let the Boxer carry out a range of missions, from moving troops and supplies to providing close air support and reconnaissance. The addition of the F-35B Lightning II enhances its strike power, allowing it to project force far beyond the horizon. This blend of advanced tech, strong armament, and versatile aviation makes the USS Boxer a key player in the U.S. Navy's amphibious warfare strategy.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Boxer (LHD-4) holds a special place in the hearts of its crew members, as evidenced by the numerous guestbook posts that recount their experiences and memories aboard the ship. These posts span from the ship's commissioning in the early 1990s to deployments in the 2000s, reflecting a rich tapestry of camaraderie, hard work, and unforgettable moments.
Peter Ayotte, a Plank Owner who served as an MM3 E-4, fondly recalls his time with the Air Department and the great times he had both on and off the ship. He served two tours, highlighting the strong bonds formed during his service. Similarly, Matthew Azure, who worked as an Aircraft Refueler on the flight deck in 2000, reminisces about his colleagues and their leader, Senior Chief Hutton, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of the Air Department.
Dennis Briscoe, who served as an E-5 GM2 in 1998, shares his journey from the Deck Department to passing the GM3 exam and moving to CS, illustrating the career progression opportunities aboard the Boxer. Daniel Cartagena, who served in 2002, expresses gratitude for the impact his shipmates had on his life and seeks a copy of the Westpac 2003 Cruise Book, underscoring the lasting connections formed during deployments.
Mileah Catapang, an OSSN in 2004, bids farewell to her "bois" on the ship, reflecting on the strong friendships that made her time aboard memorable. Clint Corpening, an E2/SA in 1993, gives a shoutout to his brothers in the Deck Department, highlighting the enduring bonds among Plank Owners. Richard Cruz-cruz, an AE3 in 1993, and Randall Davenport, an E4 DP in 1993, both express nostalgia for their Navy days and the great times they had with their shipmates.
Neal Davis, an IC3 in 1994, recalls the excitement of the ship's first cruise, including memorable events like New Year's Eve and Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Doug Dawson, an AK3 in 1991, reminisces about the hard work and fun times, while Sergei De Somov, an AN/E-3 in 1996, thanks his colleagues in the V-3 crew and medical corpsmen for their support.
Travis Falls, an ABHAN (AW) in 1998, expresses regret for not making the most of his time aboard and wishes he could redo everything. Mike Formeller, a BT2/MM1 in 1994, humorously reflects on the challenges and camaraderie among the crew. Ricardo Garcia, an AT1(AW/SW) in 2001, appreciates the outstanding sailors he served with, and Jerrold Gilson, an SM1 in 2003, recounts the ship's role in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Eddie Gonzales, an SW MM1 in 1994, and Magie Gonzalez, a SN/BM3 in 2002, both cherish their time aboard the Boxer and the life lessons they learned. Paul Gonzalez, an SH3 in 1994, fondly remembers giving haircuts to his fellow Plank Owners, while Joe Guajardo, a YN3 in 1994, recalls the excitement of commissioning the ship and traveling through the Panama Canal.
Curtis S. Hall, a PO1/IT in 2003, and Herrera, a BTFN in 1994, both highlight the leadership and camaraderie that defined their experiences. Tyler Hukill, an E3 in 2003, and Bock Justin, an OS2 in 1998, reflect on the great people they met and the lasting memories they made. Scott Kramer, an AO2 in 2002, and Fernando MacEdo, an ABH3 in 1994, both express pride in their service and the friendships they formed.
Sophia Martineau, an AT2 in 2006, and William Mauser, an E4/EM3 in 1994, both cherish their deployments and the impact of their time aboard the Boxer. Monte Mayer, an ABFAN in 1994, and Walter McCallop, a BTFN in 1994, both reflect on the lessons they learned and the fun times they had. Mac McDonald, an SH2 in 1995, humorously recalls his ESWS board experience, while Suraya McIsaac, a YN3 in 2003, highlights her deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.
Randy McKnight, an SM1 in 1994, and Jan Carl Orial, a LISN in 1994, both express pride in being Plank Owners and the strong leadership they experienced. Leslie Penny, an E-5/BM2 in 1999, and Marcus Perkins, an ABH1(AW) in 2000, both reflect on the challenges and accomplishments of their time aboard. Paul Perlman, an HM3 in 1994, and Gus Pizarrro, an E5/SK2 in 1997, both appreciate the friendships they formed and the impact of their service.
Chris Porter, an ABH3 in 2008, and Larry Powles, an ABHC (AW) (SW) in 1994, both look forward to their time aboard and reflect on their leadership roles. Tonya Ramacher, an AS2 in 1999, and Robert Rankin, a Gunnery Sergeant in 2007, both express pride in their service and the amazing sailors they served with. Greg Reaves, an IT2 in 1994, and Joey Remillard, an RM3 in 1994, both cherish their time as Plank Owners and the lasting memories they made.
Barry Robinson, an E5 (AG) in 1994, and Harold Roll, an FCC in 1993, both express pride in being part of the ship's commissioning and the strong leadership they experienced. Michael Roskam, an ABH3 in 1994, and John Santistevan, a FC3/FROCKED FC2 in 2003, both reflect on the hard work and fun times they had. Dean L. Sayre, an MA1/E-6 in 2003, and Sheldon Schroeder, an HTFN in 1997, both appreciate the friendships they formed and the impact of their service.
Adam Shepard, an E-4/MM3 in 2009, and Daniel Shonebarger, an E-5/ SK in 2000, both express gratitude for the lessons they learned and the friendships they formed. Taji Slothower, an E-4 MS3 in 1995, and Lavale Smith, an E-4/OS in 2001, both cherish the irreplaceable memories and the strong bonds they formed. Michael Swesey, a BT3 in 1994, and Devon Taylor, an EN1(SW) in 1994, both express pride in their service and the lasting impact of their time aboard the Boxer.
Steven Thomas, an IS2 in 1994, and Jeff Thompson, a BT1 in 1996, both reflect on the hard work and fun times they had. Dominic Tocco, an MS 3 in 1994, and Gary Torlina, a SFM 1 in 1994, both express pride in being Plank Owners and the lasting friendships they formed. Dc Troy Montoya, a DC3 in 1994, and James Volmer, a FC3-FC2 in 1997, both cherish the memories and the strong bonds they formed.
David Walden, an RMCM(SW) in 1994, and Jessica Whitaker, an OS2 in 1999, both express pride in their service and the strong leadership they experienced. Iziem Williams, an EM2 in 1994, and James Volmer, a FC2 in 1997, both reflect on the great times they had and the lasting impact of their service.
Overall, the memories shared by the crew members of the USS Boxer (LHD-4) paint a vivid picture of a ship that was more than just a vessel; it was a community where lifelong friendships were formed, leadership was developed, and unforgettable experiences were made.
USS Boxer LHD-4: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Boxer (LHD-4) has been a powerhouse since it was commissioned in 1995. It's seen a lot of upgrades over the years, keeping it sharp and ready for anything. One of the big changes was the addition of the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS). This system ties together sensors and weapons to fend off modern threats like anti-ship missiles and aircraft. The ship's aviation facilities have also been improved, so it can now handle a wider range of aircraft, including the cutting-edge F-35B Lightning II. These upgrades have not only kept the USS Boxer in the game but have also boosted its combat readiness and versatility.
The USS Boxer is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, and it's got a lot going for it. It's built to carry, transport, and land parts of a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) using helicopters, tilt-rotor aircraft, and landing craft. The well deck can fit up to three Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles, which can take troops and gear straight to the shore. The flight deck is versatile, supporting aircraft like the MV-22 Osprey, CH-53E Super Stallion, and AH-1Z Viper. This flexibility means the ship can handle everything from amphibious assaults to humanitarian missions.
The USS Boxer has been a real asset to the fleet, taking part in many operations and exercises. It's been crucial in humanitarian missions, like helping out after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. The ship has also been involved in combat operations, supporting missions like Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Its ability to quickly deploy and support Marine forces makes it a key player in power projection and crisis response, showing just how important amphibious assault ships are in today's naval warfare.
Beyond its operational successes, the USS Boxer has helped boost the fleet's readiness and ability to work with others. By joining multinational exercises like Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) and Cobra Gold, the ship has improved its ability to work smoothly with allied and partner navies. These exercises not only sharpen tactical skills but also build international friendships and promote regional stability. The USS Boxer's ongoing evolution and adaptability highlight its crucial role in the U.S. Navy's mission to maintain maritime superiority and ensure global security.
USS Boxer LHD-4: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Boxer (LHD-4) has been keeping up with the times since it first joined the fleet in 1995. It's had a bunch of upgrades to stay sharp and ready for anything. One of the big ones was the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS). This system pulls together different sensors and weapons to fend off modern threats like anti-ship missiles and aircraft. The ship's aviation facilities have also been spruced up, so it can handle a wider range of aircraft, including the cutting-edge F-35B Lightning II. These improvements have not only kept the Boxer in the game but have also boosted its combat readiness and versatility.
The Boxer's mission capabilities are pretty impressive. As a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, it's built to carry, transport, and land parts of a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). It uses a mix of helicopters, tilt-rotor aircraft, and landing craft to get the job done. The well deck can fit up to three Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles, which can take troops and gear straight to the shore. The flight deck is busy too, supporting aircraft like the MV-22 Osprey, CH-53E Super Stallion, and AH-1Z Viper. This gives the Boxer the flexibility to handle everything from amphibious assaults to humanitarian missions.
The USS Boxer has been a real workhorse for the fleet, taking part in all sorts of operations and exercises. It's been a lifesaver in humanitarian missions, like after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. The ship's also been crucial in combat operations, supporting efforts like Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Its ability to quickly deploy and support Marine forces makes it a powerhouse for projecting strength and responding to crises. This shows just how important amphibious assault ships are in today's naval warfare.
Beyond its operational successes, the Boxer has helped keep the fleet ready and able to work with others. By joining multinational exercises like Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) and Cobra Gold, the ship has honed its skills to operate smoothly with allied and partner navies. These exercises boost tactical know-how and strengthen international ties, promoting stability in the region. The Boxer's ongoing evolution and adaptability highlight its crucial role in the U.S. Navy's mission to maintain maritime superiority and ensure global security.
USS Boxer LHD-4 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Wasp Class Amphibious Assault Ship |
| Commissioned | February 11, 1995 |
| Displacement | 41,180 tons |
| Length | 844 feet |
| Beam | 110 feet |
| Draft | 30 feet |
| Speed | 22 knots |
| Complement | 73 Officers 1,009 Enlisted |