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Navsource Online: Frigate Photo Archive


Ship's patch courtesy
of Mike Smolinski

USS Nicholas (FFG 47)


Flag Hoist / Radio Call Sign:
N - S - V - N
Tactical Voice Radio Call: "Pinch Hit"


Awards, Citations and Campaign Ribbons






Precedence of awards is from top to bottom, left to right
Top Row: Combat Action Ribbon - Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation
Second Row: Navy Unit Commendation - Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation - CG Meritorious Unit Commendation w/ CG "O"
Third Row: Navy Battle "E" Ribbon (5) - National Defense Service Medal w/ 1 star - Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal w/ 3 stars
Fourth Row: Southwest Asia Service Medal w/ 2 stars - GWOT Expeditionary Service Medal w/ 1 star - GWOT Service Medal
Fifth Row: Armed Forces Service Ribbon w/ 2 stars - Sea Service Deployment Ribbon w/ 8 stars - CG Special Operations Service Ribbon
Sixth Row: NATO Medal - Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia) - Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait)


"Carrying On A Proud Tradition"
Specifications:
Class: Oliver Hazard Perry (Long Hull, LAMPS III modified, As Built)
Type: SCB No. 261 / 1979 - 1984
Number in Class: 26 (8, 36-61)
Displacement: 3174 tons (std), 4082 tons (full)
Length: 408' (wl), 453' (oa)
Beam: 45.4' (extreme)
Draft: 24' 6" (draft limit)
Propulsion: 2 GE LM 2500 gas turbine engines; 41,000 shp; 1 shaft, cp propeller, 325 hp retractable propeller pods
Speed: 29 kts
Range: 4,500 nm @ 20 knots, 5400 nm @ 16 knots
Complement: 13 / 206 (includes 19 man air detachment)
Missiles: 1-Mk 13 Mod 4 launcher, 4 SSM McDonnell-Douglas Harpoon missiles, 36 GDC-Pomona Standard SM-1MR missiles
Guns: 1-Mk 75 3"/62 cal. OTO Melara gun, 1-Vulcan Phalanx CIS, 4-.50 cal. MG's
ASW Weapons: 6-324mm Mk 32 (2 triple) tubes / Mk 46 torpedoes
Radars: AN/SPS-55 (surface), AN/SPS-49(V)214 (air)
Sonars: AN/SQS-56, AN/SQR-19 TACTAS (Towed Array)
Elec. Warfare: SLQ-25 Nixie System, SLQ-32(V)2 Electronic Countermeasures System
Fire Control Systems: 1 Mk13 Weapon-Direction System, 1 Mk92 weapons FCS, 1 modified SPG-60 STIR radar (Separate Target Illumination Radar)
Helicopter: 2-SH-60 LAMPS III Helicopters, RAST (Recovery, Assistance, Securing and Traversing System) helicopter hauldown system
Nicholas (FFG 47) Building and Operational Data:
  • 28 April 1980: Building contract awarded to Bath Iron Works Corp.
  • 27 September 1982: Keel laid by the Bath Iron Works, Bath, Me.
  • 23 April 1983: Launched and christened, sponsored by Elizabeth M. Tryon, a descendant of Major Samuel Nicholas
  • 10 March 1984: Commissioned, Cmdr. James F. Amerault in command, assigned to Charleston, S.C. as a unit of Destroyer Squadron 6
  • 1996: Homeport assignment changed to Norfolk, Va. as a unit of Destroyer Squadron 2
  • 10 March 2014: Ceremonially decommissioned at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. on the 30th anniversary of her commissioning
  • 17 March 2014: Formally decommissioned, struck from the NVR (for disposal)
    Click On Image
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    Size Image Description Contributed
    By And/Or Copyright
    Nicholas
    074701
    8k Samuel Nicholas was born in Philadelphia, Pa. in 1744 and received his commission as Captain of Marines from the Continental Congress 28 November 1775, the earliest existing commission issued in the Continental Naval Service. He joined Continental Ship Alfred as Marine Officer at her commissioning 3 December. On 3 March 1776 he commanded the first amphibious landing of American Marines when the Continental Fleet under Esek Hopkins attacked New Providence in the Bahamas. Leading a party of 200 marines and 50 sailors, Nicholas won Fort Montague, Government House, and Nassau. The capture of New Providence brought badly needed cannon and ammunition to the hard-pressed Continental Army. Promoted to Major 6 June 1776, Nicholas trained Marines for duty at sea and in the field with Washington, virtually becoming Commandant of Marines, although such a title did not then exist. He died in Philadelphia 27 August 1790 and was laid to rest at Fairhill Burial Ground, Philadelphia, Pa.

    USS Nicholas (FFG 47) (1984-2014) was the third ship to be named for Samuel Nicholas, DD 311 (1919 - 1923), and DD 449 (1942 - 1970) having preceded her.
    Mike Smolinski
    Clifton, N.J.

    Navsource DE/FF/LCS
    Archive Manager
    Nicholas
    074702
    122k 27 September 1982: Bath, Me. - Naval personnel and employees of Bath Iron Works pose for a group photo during the keel laying of the guided missile frigate Nicholas (FFG 47).

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SN-86-08167 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the Defense Visual Information Center)
    Nicholas
    074703
    132k 27 September 1982: Bath, Me. - The keel of the guided missile frigate Nicholas.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SN-86-08168 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074704
    167k 08 November 1982: Bath, Me. - An elevated stern view of Nicholas, right, at 40 percent completion at the Bath Iron Works shipyard. Another frigate is under construction alongside.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SN-86-08182 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074705
    99k 23 April 1983: Bath, Me. - Sponsor Elizabeth Tryon, right, and the maid of honor pose for a photo during the launching of Nicholas.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05612 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074706
    95k 23 April 1983: Bath, Me. - A Marine Corps general speaks at the launching of Nicholas.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05614 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074707
    84k 23 April 1983: Bath, Me. - Sponsor Elizabeth M. Tryon, a descendant of Major Samuel Nicholas, christens the Nicholas.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05616 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074708
    101k 23 April 1983: Bath, Me. - A bow view of Nicholas sliding down the ways during its’ launching.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05615 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074709
    80k 23 April 1983: Bath, Me. - A starboard bow view of Nicholas in the water after just after launching.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05617 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    ***De Wert***
    074516
    87k 19 November 1983: Bath, Me. - Starboard bow view of the Oliver Hazard Perry class guided missile frigates (Left to right) USS De Wert (FFG 45), USS Taylor (FFG 50), USS Robert G. Bradley (FFG 49) and USS Nicholas (FFG 47), docked at Bath Iron Works. De Wert is being commissioned today.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SN-86-00250 by PH3 Judkins from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074710
    155k January 1984: Bath, Me. - A port view of Nicholas underway heading out for her sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05604 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074711
    158k January 1984: Bath, Me. - A port view of Nicholas underway heading to sea for her trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05598 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074712
    124k January 1984: Bath, Me. - A port quarter view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05595 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074713
    192k January 1984: Bath, Me. - An elevated port bow view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05596 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074714
    215k January 1984: Bath, Me. - An elevated port bow view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05597 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074715
    212k January 1984: Bath, Me. - An elevated starboard bow view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05599 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074716
    136k January 1984: Bath, Me. - A port bow view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05603 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074717
    229k January 1984: Bath, Me. - An elevated port quarter view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05565 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074718
    112k January 1984: Bath, Me. - A starboard quarter view of Nicholas underway during sea trials.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05572 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074719
    169k 10 March 1984: Bath, Me. - A view of the shipyard and guests assembled for the commissioning of Nicholas.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05606 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074720
    128k 10 March 1984: Bath, Me. - Crew members line the starboard rail of Nicholas during the ship's commission ceremony at the Bath Iron Works shipyard.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-84-06057 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074721
    81k 10 March 1984: Bath, Me. - Elizabeth M. Tryon, sponsor, is escorted to her seat for the commissioning of Nicholas.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-05609 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074722
    89k 10 March 1984: Bath, Me. - Crew members stand at attention during the commissioning ceremony for Nicholas at the Bath Iron Works shipyard.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-84-06051 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074723
    54k 10 March 1984: Bath, Me. - Commander James F. Amerault, commanding officer of Nicholas, addresses guests attending the ship's commissioning ceremony at Bath Iron Works shipyard.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-84-06047 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074724
    109k 10 March 1984: Bath, Me. - Crewman line the starboard rail of Nicholas as the ship is commissioned.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-84-06049 by Bath Iron Works Corp. from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074759
    141k date / location unknown Wendell R. McLaughlin
    Nicholas
    074725
    148k date / location unknown

    (photo retouched by Tom Kermen)
    Demetrius J. C. Carter
    SM1, USN
    Nicholas
    074726
    131k 01 August 1985: at sea - A starboard quarter view of Nicholas underway during MIDRON cruise.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-86-04641 by HM2 Robert E. Wilson from the DVIC)
    Mike Smolinski
    Clifton, N.J.

    Navsource DE/FF/LCS
    Archive Manager
    Nicholas
    074727
    84k 01 July 1988: The Persian Gulf - MS2 William Hendrickson scans for mines from the bow of Nicholas during an Earnest Will convoy mission in which tankers are led through the waters of the Gulf by U.S. naval ships.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SN-88-10150 by PHCS Mitchell from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074728
    70k 01 July 1988: The Persian Gulf - Close-up view of a test missile in the launcher aboard Nicholas. The missile, which is loaded with electronics, provides data to fire control systems technicians by reporting on the missile launching system.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-88-09837 by PHCS Mitchell from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074729
    79k 01 July 1988: The Persian Gulf - An SH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter from Nicholas approaches the reflagged Kuwaiti tanker Chesapeake City. The helicopter is transporting Navy Liaison Officers, who will act as naval representatives aboard the tanker, during Operation Earnest Will, a convoy mission in which reflagged Kuwaiti tankers are escorted through waters of the Gulf by U.S. naval ships.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-88-09836 by PHCS Mitchell from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074730
    190k 01 October 1990: at sea - A starboard quarter view of Nicholas underway in support of Operation Desert Shield.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-92-06592 by OS2 John Bouvia from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074731
    74k 21 March 1991: Bermuda - Crew members manning the rails aboard Nicholas watch as the large harbor tug Palatka (YTB-801) approaches the guided missile destroyer USS Macdonough (DDG 39). Nicholas and Macdonough are departing Bermuda to begin the final part of their journey to Naval Station, Charleston SC. The ships are returning to Charleston following their deployment to the Persian Gulf region for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-91-08387 by JO2 Oscar Sosa from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074732
    92k 22 March 1991: Charleston, S.C. - A sailor aboard Nicholas hands out roses ordered by his fellow crew members as the ship heads up the Cooper River toward Naval Station, Charleston SC.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-91-08392 by JO2 Oscar Sosa from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074733
    136k 22 March 1991: Charleston, S.C. - The large harbor tug Natchitoches (YTB-799) and other tugs spray streams of water into the air as they lead Nicholas up the Cooper River toward Naval Station, Charleston SC. Nicholas is returning to Charleston following its deployment to the Persian Gulf region for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-91-08391 by JO2 Oscar Sosa from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074734
    130k 22 March 1991: Charleston, S.C. - Crew members man the rails aboard Nicholas as the vessel passes the destroyer tender USS Sierra (AD 18), the destroyer USS John Rodgers (DD 983) and the guided missile destroyer USS Semmes (DDG 18) tied up at the pier. Nicholas is arriving at the station after being deployed in the Persian Gulf area during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SC-91-08776 by JO2 Oscar Sosa from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074735
    156k 22 March 1991: Charleston, S.C. - Family members and friends hold up signs and flags as Nicholas, background, and Macdonough arrive at the pier. The ships are returning to Charleston following their deployment to the Persian Gulf region for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-91-08696 by PH2 Johnny Bivera from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074736
    92k 22 March 1991: Charleston, S.C. - A sailor embraces his wife as they stand near the stern of Nicholas following the ship's return from its deployment to the Persian Gulf region for Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-91-08388 by JO2 Oscar Sosa from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074737
    115k 22 March 1991: Charleston, S.C. - A sailor sits with his wife and children near the bow of Nicholas following the ship's return from its deployment to the Persian Gulf region.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-ST-91-08389 by JO2 Oscar Sosa from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074738
    179k 05 March 1999: at sea - Shot of Nicholas underway in the Aegean Sea. Nicholas is part of the Enterprise Battle Group operating in the central Mediterranean Sea.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-02-03134 by PH1 Benjamin D. Olvey from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074739
    137k 05 March 1999: at sea - USS Enterprise (CVN 65) (right) and USS Detroit (AOE 4) (center) conduct a replenishment-at-sea, as Nicholas (top left) begins her approach. Enterprise Battle Group is operating in the central Mediterranean Sea.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-02-03135 by PH3 Jason D. Malcolm from the Defense Visual Information Center)
    Nicholas
    074740
    154k 05 March 1999: at sea - During a replenishment-at-sea, Enterprise, Detroit and Nicholas steam along. Enterprise is forward deployed to the Mediterranean Sea.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-02-03124 by PHAN Karl L. Peters from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074741
    91k 06 October 2000: at sea - Nicholas underway in the Atlantic Ocean.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-03-12502 by PH3 Charlie Thompson from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074742
    86k 03 July 2003: St. Petersburg, Russia - The guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) arrives pier side in St. Petersburg as a Russian Naval Band plays on the pier. The port visit included a Fourth of July observance and a birthday commemoration of U.S. and Russian naval hero Adm. John Paul Jones, solidifying ties between the two navies. It was the first visit of a U.S. naval ship to the city since 1996. Embarked aboard Nicholas was Commander Sixth Fleet Vice Adm. Scott A. Fry. John Paul Jones served as an Admiral for the Russian Navy after fighting in the Revolutionary War.

    (U.S. Navy photo #030703-N-0000D-001 by Lt. Leonardo Day from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074743
    91k 26 September 2003: Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina - Crewmembers aboard the U.S. Navy guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) "man the rails" during ships arrival honors to the port city of Neum. Nicholas is the first U.S. Navy ship to ever make a port visit to this city. Navy frigates carry a crew of 17 officers and 198 enlisted and provide anti-air warfare (AAW) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions, supporting expeditionary forces, replenishment groups, and merchant convoys.

    (U.S. Navy photo #030926-N-2716P-031 by PH1 Paul J. Phelps from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074744
    142k 26 September 2003: Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina - Cdr. Chan Swallow, commanding officer of the U.S. Navy guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47), and other selected crewmembers, take part in an arrival ceremony shortly after anchoring in the port of Neum. The ceremony included introductions, gift giving, and playing of the national anthems. Nicholas is the first U.S. Navy ship ever to make a port visit to this city. Navy frigates carry a crew of 17 officers and 198 enlisted and provide anti-air warfare (AAW) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions, supporting expeditionary forces, replenishment groups, and merchant convoys.

    (U.S. Navy photo #030926-N-2716P-113 by PH1 Paul J. Phelps from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074745
    120k 27 September 2003: Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina - The guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) takes a barge alongside for miscellaneous services, as it is anchored in the harbor of Neum, in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nicholas is the first U.S. Navy ship ever to make a port visit to this city.

    (U.S. Navy photo #030927-N-2716P-123 by PH1 Paul J. Phelps from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074746
    81k 14 October 2003: Rota, Spain - Torpedoman Robert Allen mans a .50 cal. gun mount aboard the guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) as the ship departs Naval Station Rota, Spain. Nicholas is participating in the Spanish-led SANSO 2003 phase of the Proliferation Security Exercise with armed forces from eleven countries. The ten-phase exercise is a maritime interdiction operations training exercise, which targets vessels simulating merchant vessels suspected of carrying weapons of mass destruction and their related delivery devices.

    (U.S. Navy photo #031014-N-1056B-001 by Lt. Corey Barker from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074747
    61k 17 October 2003: Mediterranean Sea - The guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) and a helicopter from the Spanish frigate SPS Navarra (F-85) track a simulated cargo vessel, thought to be transporting weapons of mass destruction during a training exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. The four day Spanish led phase is the third of ten phases in which armed forces from eleven nations participate in multinational Maritime Interdiction Operation (MIO) training exercises tracking, boarding and seizing suspect vessels transporting weapons of mass destruction on the high seas.

    U.S. Navy photo #031017-N-1056B-003 by Lt. Corey Barker from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074748
    81k 25 May 2005: Norfolk, Va. - Line handlers assist the guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) and her crew of than 250 Sailors in getting underway from Naval Station Norfolk in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Nicholas is one of five East Coast ships surging for an approximately three-month deployment to work with allies to detect, disrupt, and deny international terrorist organizations the use of the maritime environment.

    (U.S. Navy photo #050525-N-4010S-001 by JO1 Ty Swartz from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074749
    166k 25 August 2005: Norfolk, Va. - The crew of USS Nicholas (FFG 47) man the rails as the ship prepares to moor at Naval Station Norfolk. Nicholas, along with USS Saipan (LHA 2) and USS Nashville (LPD 13) returned to Naval Station Norfolk after completing a three-month surge deployment in support of the global war on terror.

    (U.S. Navy photo #050825-N-6639M-001 by PH3 Laura A. Moore from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074750
    179k 02 May 2006: Norfolk, Va. - Sailors man the rail as line handlers wait to get the guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) underway. Nicholas is deploying as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike group in support of the global war on terrorism.

    (U.S. Navy photo #060502-N-5055G-005 by JO2 Joshua Glassburn from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074751
    84k 02 May 2006: Norfolk, Va. - The proud family of Chief Master-at-Arms Fredrick Masten, stationed aboard Nicholas, waves goodbye from the pier as the ship gets underway at Norfolk.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-06-13172 by PHAN Mandy McLaurin from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074752
    62k 02 May 2006: Norfolk, Va. - Sailors onboard Nicholas, prepare for departure at pier four of Naval Station Norfolk.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-06-13173 by PHAN Mandy McLaurin from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074753
    117k 02 May 2006: Norfolk, Va. - A starboard bow view of Nicholas, prior to getting underway at Norfolk, Va. for a scheduled deployment in support of the global war on terrorism.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-06-13166 by Lisa Derek M. Pool (USN) from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074754
    109k 02 May 2006: Norfolk, Va. - A starboard view of Nicholas, underway exiting the harbor at Norfolk, for a scheduled deployment in support of the global war on terrorism. A commercial tugboat is underway in the foreground.

    (U.S. Navy photo DVID #DN-SD-06-13168 by Lisa Derek M. Pool (USN) from the DVIC)
    Nicholas
    074755
    204k 07 May 2006: Atlantic Ocean - The guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) sails through the Atlantic Ocean in formation with the Enterprise Carrier Strike group. The Enterprise CSG and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently underway on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism.

    (U.S. Navy photo #060507-N-7748K-013 by PH3 Joshua Kinter from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074762
    193k 14 November 2006: Naval Station Norfolk, Va. - The frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) pulls into port at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. following a six-month deployment with USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Carrier Strike Group.

    (U.S. Navy photo #061109-N-4515N-119 by MCSA Joshua A. Nuzzo from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074756
    135k 14 November 2006: Norfolk, Va. - Sailors of the guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) man the rails, as the ship prepares to pull into her homeport. Nicholas returned home after a successful six-month deployment with Enterprise Carrier Strike Group in support of the global war on terrorism.

    (U.S. Navy photo #061114-N-1713L-003 by MC2 Lolita Lewis from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074757
    121k 20 April 2007: Norfolk, Va. - Nicholas underway off the Naval Station.

    (U.S. Navy photo #DSC-00007-FFG-47)
    Wendell McLaughlin
    Nicholas
    074758
    162k August 2007: Norfolk, Va. - Nicholas returning to the Naval Station. Bruce Boylan
    Nicholas
    074760
    158k 26 April 2007: New Orleans, La. - Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Donnie Grissom fraps the lines on USS Nicholas (FFG 47) at the Governor Nicholls Wharf in New Orleans. Nicholas stopped in New Orleans for a four-day port call. During the port call the ship was open for public tours and sailors had a chance to enjoy the unique culture of New Orleans.

    (U.S. Navy photo #070426-N-0857S-001 by Mr. Sam Shore from the Navy Newstand)
    Mike Smolinski
    Clifton, N.J.

    Navsource DE/FF/LCS
    Archive Manager
    Nicholas
    074761
    185k 27 April 2007: New Orleans, La. - USS Nicholas departs from the Governor Nicholls Wharf in New Orleans. Nicholas is returning to her homeport of Norfolk, Va. after stopping in New Orleans for a four-day port call. During the port call the ship was open for public tours and sailors had a chance to enjoy the unique culture of New Orleans.

    (U.S. Navy photo #070427-N-0857S-009 by Mr. Sam Shore from the Navy Newstand)
    Nicholas
    074763
    161k 05 August 2008: Naval Station Rota, Spain - The guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) is moored at Naval Station Rota, Spain, during a port visit.

    (U.S. Navy photo #080805-N-3289C-003 by MC3 Paul Cage from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074764
    95k 03 December 2009: Naval Station, Norfolk, Va. - Gas Turbine System Technician (Mechanical) Fireman Christian Harvey holds his nine-month old daughter aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry class guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) as the ship prepares to depart Naval Station Norfolk for a scheduled deployment supporting Africa Partnership Station. APS is an international security cooperation initiative led by U.S. Naval Forces Africa with the goal of improving maritime safety and security in West and Central Africa.

    (U.S. Navy photo #091203-N-2456S-054 by MC3 John Suits from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074765
    277k 21 February 2010: Port Louis, Mauritius - The guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) arrives in Port Louis, Mauritius during an Africa Partnership Station East port visit. Africa Partnership Station is an international initiative developed by Naval Forces Europe and Naval Forces Africa to improve maritime safety and security in West and Central Africa.

    (U.S. Navy photo #100221-N-8463W-096 by MC3 Tracey L. Whitley from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074766
    175k 5 April 2010: Djibouti - A rigid-hull inflatable boat assigned to the port security department at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, and a fast boat assigned to French special forces deployed to Djibouti split off as they conduct circular patrols around the guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) while moored at Port de Djibouti. Nicholas is on a six-month deployment supporting Africa Partnership Station and counter-piracy operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

    (U.S. Navy photo #100505-N-7526R-030 by MC2 Marc Rockwell-Pate from the Navy News Stand)
    Nicholas
    074767
    101k 26 May 2010: Ponta Delgada, Azores Islands - USS Nicholas (FFG 47) making her way into the harbor for a port visit to the Azore Islands. Carlos Manuel Estrela
    Ponta Delgada, Azores Islands
    Nicholas
    074768
    109k 26 May 2010: Ponta Delgada, Azores Islands - Nicholas passing USS Stephen W. Groves (FFG 29) as she makes her way into the harbor and heads for her berth.
    Nicholas
    074774
    677k 08 May 2012: the Pacific Ocean - The guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) prepares for a passing exercise with USS Underwood (FFG 36) in the Pacific Ocean. Underwood is deployed to Central and South America and the Caribbean in support of Southern Seas 2012.

    (U.S. Navy photo #120508-N-NL541-170 by MC2 Stuart Phillips from the Navy Newstand)
    Mike Smolinski
    Clifton, N.J.

    Navsource DE/FF/LCS
    Archive Manager
    Nicholas
    074769
    254k 10 March 2014: Norfolk, Va. - A series of photos taken at the decommissioning ceremony for USS Nicholas (FFG 47). Nicholas at the pier prior to the ceremony. S. Dale Hargrave
    Newport News, Va.

    (Photos by Dale Hargrave)
    Nicholas
    074770
    139k 10 March 2014: Norfolk, Va. - Commanding Officer, Commander Cory J. Blaser speaks at the ceremony.
    Nicholas
    074771
    89k 10 March 2014: Norfolk, Va. - The Commissioning Pennant is hauled down for the last time.
    Nicholas
    074772
    275k 10 March 2014: Norfolk, Va. - The crew departs the ship.
    Nicholas
    074773
    163k 10 March 2014: Norfolk, Va. - The first and last. Commander Blaser, Nicholas's last CO chats with retired Vice Admiral James F. Amerault, Nicholas's first commanding officer and decommissioning guest speaker.

    Nicholas History
    View the USS Nicholas (FFG 47) DANFS history entry located on the Naval History and Heritage Command web site.

    Nicholas' Commanding Officers
    Thanks to Wolfgang Hechler & Ron Reeves
    Dates of Command Commanding Officers
    1.)  10 Mar. 1984 - 10 Jun. 1986Cmdr. James Frederick Amerault (USNA '65) (Billerica, Mass.) (retired as Vadm.)
    2.)  10 Jun. 1986 - 15 May 1988Cmdr. Richard Walter Mayo (ROTC '68) (Falls Church, Va.) (retired as Vadm.)
    3.)  15 May 1988 - 14 Jun. 1990Cmdr. Edward Richard Hebert
    4.)  14 Jun. 1990 - 30 Mar. 1992Cmdr. Dennis Gilbert Morral (USNA '72) (Souderton, Pa.) (retired as Radm.)
    5.)  30 Mar. 1992 - 26 Jan. 1994Cmdr. Paul Theodore Serfass Jr. (USNA '74) (King of Prussia, Pa.)
    6.)  26 Jan. 1994 - 27 Sep. 1995Cmdr. Neil C. Burlingame (Providence, R.I.)
    7.)  27 Sep. 1995 - 10 Jun. 1996Cmdr. James H. McKinney Jr.*
    8.)  10 Jun. 1996 - 31 Jan. 1998Cmdr. Timothy Patrick Sprague
    9.)  31 Jan. 1998 - 06 Aug. 1999Cmdr. John R. Reichl (North Catasauqua, Pa.)
    10.) 06 Aug. 1999 - 10 Jul. 2001Cmdr. Tilghman Douglas Payne (USNA '81) (retired as Radm.)
    11.) 10 Jul. 2001 - 28 Feb. 2003Cmdr. Joseph Daniel Creed
    12.) 28 Mar. 2003 - 02 Sep. 2004Cmdr. Robert Chandler Swallow
    13.) 02 Sep. 2004 - 18 Oct. 2006Cmdr. William Robert Silkman
    14.) 18 Oct. 2006 - 01 Feb. 2008Cmdr. Robert Curtis Sparrock (USNA '88) (Brooklyn, N.Y.)
    15.) 01 Feb. 2008 - 19 Aug. 2009Cmdr. Matthew G. Fleming
    16.) 19 Aug. 2009 - 29 Jun. 2011Cmdr. Mark Douglas Kesselring (St. Louis, Mo.)
    17.) 29 Jun. 2011 - 02 Aug. 2012Cmdr. Stephen Francis Fuller
    18.) 02 Aug. 2012 - 10 Mar. 2014Cmdr. Cory J. Blaser (Citadel '95) (Greenville, S.C.)

    * Relieved for cause: Loss of confidence due to a fraternization incident on liberty in Nova Scotia.
    Crew Contact And Reunion Information

    2019 Reunion
    22 October 2019 at Charleston, S.C.
    Chairman: Bill Linn
    Address: PO Box 993
    City/State: Toledo WA 98591
    Phone: (928) 246-7927
    E-mail: bill.margie at yahoo.com
    Note About Contacts

    Contact information is compiled from various sources over a period of time and may, or may not, be correct. Every effort has been
    made to list the newest contact. However, our entry is only as good as the latest information that's been sent to us. We list only
    a contact for the ship if one has been sent to us. We do NOT have crew lists, rosters, or deck logs available. Please see the
    Frequently Asked Questions section on NavSource's Main Page for that information.


    Additional Resources

    Tin Can Sailors
    The U.S. Navy Memorial
    The Destroyer Escort Historical Museum
    The Destroyer History Foundation
    Back To The DE / FF / LCS Ship Index
    Back To The Main Photo Index

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    Page Last Updated: 03 March 2023