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USS MITSCHER (DDG 57)


Flag Hoist/Radio Call Sign - NMTR


"Seize the Day"
CLASS - BURKE Flight I As Built.
Displacement 8373 Tons (Full), Dimensions, 504' 7" (oa) x 66' 11" x 20' (Max)
Armament 1 x 5"/54 RF, 2 Phalanx 20mm Guns, 90 VLS Cells,
8 Harpoon Missiles, 6 x 12.75" TT.
Machinery, 100,000 SHP; 4 GE LM-2500 Gas Turbines, 2 screws
Speed, 30+ Knots, Range 4400 NM@ 20 Knots, Crew 370.
Operational and Building Data
Built by Litton - Ingalls, Pascagoula MS (YN 5257)
Contract awarded 13 December 1988
Laid down 12 February 1992
Launched 07 May 1993
Commissioned 10 December 1994
Active unit of the US Navy
Homeported at Norfolk, Virginia.

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Mitscher 67kMarc Andrew Mitscher, born 26 January 1887 in Hillsboro, Wis., graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy 3 June 1910 and served 2 years at sea in Colorado. Commissioned ensign 7 March 1912, he served in San Diego during the Mexican campaign, and in September 1915 he reported for aviation training in North Carolina, one of the first ships in the Navy to carry an airplane. Designated naval aviator No. 33 on 2 June 1916, he served at various east coast naval air stations and in the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations before reporting to Seaplane Division 1. On 16 May 1919 he took off from Newfoundland as pilot of NC-1. His plane and NC-3 landed in heavy fog near the Azores, but heavy seas prevented them from joining NC-4 in completing the first transatlantic air passage. For his part in this historic operation, Mitscher received the Navy Cross. In addition to several shore-based commands, Mitscher, during the next two decades, served in carriers Langley and Saratoga, seaplane tender Wright, and as commander, Patrol Wing 1. Between June 1939 and July 1941 be served as assistant chief of the Bureau of Aeronautics. Thence, he fitted out carrier Hornet and assumed command at her commissioning 20 October 1941. While under his command, Hornet launched Doolittle’s Army bombers for airstrikes against Japan 18 April 1942 and thus gained fame as "Shangri La". He captained her during the mighty battle of Midway 4 to 6 June, but was detached from the carrier 30 June less than 4 months before her loss 26 October during the battle of Santa Cruz Islands. Mitscher commanded Patrol Wing 2 until December when he became commander fleet air, Noumea. In April 1943 he became commander air, Solomon Islands, and from August to January 1944 he commanded fleet air, west coast. Returning to the central Pacific as Commander, Carrier Division 3, he was appointed vice admiral 21 March 1944 and ordered to take command of TF 58. This fast carrier task force, which operated alternately as TF 38, inflicted severe and irreparable damage on Japanese ground installations and against enemy naval and merchant shipping. His hard-hitting, wide-ranging carriers pounded the enemy from Truk to the Palaus, along the New Guinea coast, and throughout the Marianas. His eager, resourceful aviators devastated the enemy in the Battle of the Philippine Sea 19 to 20 June 1944. During the next year his warring carriers spearheaded the thrust-of-death against the heart of the Japanese Empire, covering successively the invasion of the Palaus, the liberation of the Philippines, and the conquest of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. During these operations he repeatedly led the fast carriers northward to pound the Japanese home islands. By July 1945 when he returned to the United States to serve as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Air, Mitscher had received, among other awards, two Gold Stars in lieu of a second and third Navy Cross and the Distinguished Service Medal with two Gold Stars. He served briefly as commander 8th Fleet and on 1 March 1946 became Commander-in-Chief, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, with the rank as admiral. While serving in that capacity, Mitscher died at Norfolk, Va., 3 February 1947. Photo #: 80-G-424169. Vice Admiral Marc A. Mitscher, USN, photographed during World War II. Official U.S. Navy Photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.Robert M. Cieri
USS Mitscher (DDG 57)
Mitscher 169kUSS Mitscher (DDG-57) poster courtesy of Lockheed Martin.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 48kUndated, location unknown.-
Mitscher 126kUndated, precommissioning photo.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 51kUndated, location unknown. USS Mitscher (DDG-57) steaming past the Landing Platform Dock HMS Bulwark (L-15).Robert Hurst
Mitscher 147kThe Ship's Sponsor Christening the USS Mitscher DDG-57. Ingalls Photo.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 97kThe Christening Coin.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 50kThe Christening Program.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 236kDN-SC-94-00646. Pascagoula, October 15 1993, a view of warships under construction at the Ingalls Shipbuilding shipyard. (From front to back) are the guided-missile cruiser Port Royal (CG 73), the guided-missile destroyer Stout (DDG 55) and the guided-missile destroyer Mitscher (DDG 57). Inboard of STOUT is the guided-missile destroyer Ramage (DDG 61) and inboard of MITSCHER is the guided-missile destroyer Russell (DDG 59). U.S. Navy photo by: OS2 John Bouvia.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 133kThe Commissioning Program.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 130kDN-SC-95-01299. A view of the assembled crowd at the commissioning ceremony of the guided missile destroyer USS MITSCHER (DDG-57) dockside at Naval Air Station Pensacola. Photo by Art Giberson, December 10 1994.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 138kDN-SC-97-02318. Crewmembers of the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG-57) man the rails along the fantail of the ship at the conclusion of the commissioning ceremony at the Pensacola Naval Air Station. Photo by John Bouvia, December 10 1994.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 156kUSS Mitscher (DDG-57) underway on 24 May 1995 near Fort Monroe, Virginia. Photographed by William H. Clarke. Courtesy of William H. Clarke. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph. Photo # NH 106797-KN.Robert Hurst
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Welcome Aboard pamphlet - July 1996
Manuel García García
Mitscher 70kJuly 3, 1996 - North Atlantic: North Atlantic salt water spray soaks Sailors on board the Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) during refueling operations with the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) (not shown). Mitscher is on her first deployment since being commissioned 1994.Fred Weiss
Mitscher 89kJuly 3, 1996 - North Atlantic: The US Navy`s nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) refuels with the Arleigh Burke Class destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) during an underway replenishment operation in the North Atlantic.Fred Weiss
Mitscher 61kBarcelona, Spain July 19 1996.Marc Piché
Mitscher 58kBarcelona, Spain July 19 1996.Marc Piché
Mitscher 48kBarcelona, Spain July 19 1996.Marc Piché
Mitscher 59kBarcelona, Spain July 19 1996.Marc Piché
Mitscher 45kBarcelona, Spain July 19 1996.Marc Piché
Mitscher 46kBarcelona, Spain January 23 2001.Marc Piché
Mitscher 80kBarcelona, Spain January 2001.Fabio Peña
Mitscher 78kBarcelona, Spain January 2001.Fabio Peña
Mitscher 92kFort Lauderdale, Fla., Mar. 4, 2002, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) arrives this morning at the entrance to the channel to Port Everglades, Fla., for a short port visit to Fort Lauderdale. USS Mitscher is homeported in Norfolk, Va. U.S. Navy photo by of Ms. Grace Kelly. [020304-N-7314K-001] Mar. 4, 2002.Fred Weiss
Mitscher 82kFort Lauderdale, Fla., Mar. 7, 2002, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) heads out to sea this morning from the channel at Port Everglades, Fla., after a three-day port visit to Fort Lauderdale. USS Mitscher is homeported in Norfolk, Va. U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Ms. Grace Kelly. [020307-N-7314K-002] Mar. 7, 2002.Fred Weiss
Mitscher 64kAt sea with the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) Oct. 29, 2002 -- A Naval Air Crewman watches USS Mitscher pass below shortly after lifting off from the deck of the ship's fantail. Mitscher is underway with the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Battle Group conducting missions in support of a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Michael W. Pendergrass.Tony Cowart
Mitscher 84kNorfolk, Va., Dec. 5, 2002, sailors aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) ‘man the rails’ while dependents and friends look on in the rain and snow. The Mitscher is departing as part of the carrier battle group belong to USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). U.S. Navy Photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Marthaellen L. Ball. Fred Weiss
Mitscher 45k030414-N-61418-004 April 14 2003 in Central Command waters.Steven A. Cardali
Mitscher 54kCentral Command Area of Responsibility, April 20 2003, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) conducts high-speed maneuvers after an underway replenishment with the Military Sealift Command, fleet oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196). Mitscher is deployed conducting missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Journalist Alan J. Baribeau.Tony Cowart
Mitscher 146k030420-N-6141B-008. Central Command Area of Responsibility, April 20 2003, the Military Sealift Command, fleet oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) refueling probe pulls away from the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) concluding part of an underway replenishment (UNREP). Mitscher is deployed conducting missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Operation Iraqi Freedom is the multi-national coalition effort to liberate the Iraqi people, eliminate Iraq's weapons of mass destruction and end the regime of Saddam Hussein. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Journalist Alan J. Baribeau.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 116k030426-N-6141B-017 The Suez Canal April 26 2003, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) passes a memorial built in recognition of the defense of the Suez Canal from 1914-1918 while transiting the Suez Canal. Mitscher is one of the many warships supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Operation Iraqi Freedom is the multi-national coalition effort to liberate the Iraqi people, eliminate Iraq's weapons of mass destruction and end the regime of Saddam Hussein. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Journalist Alan J. Baribeau.-
Mitscher 64k030426-N-6141B-016. The Suez Canal April 26 2003, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) transits the Suez Canal. The Mitscher is one of many warships supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, the multi-national coalition effort to liberate the Iraqi people, eliminate Iraq's weapons of mass destruction and end the regime of Saddam Hussein. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Journalist Alan J. Baribeau.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 70kPort Everglades, FL, April 26 2004, the crew assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) "man the rails" as they prepare to moor at Port Everglades, Fla., for Fleet Week 2004. Shown also are the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided missile frigate USS Simpson (FFG 56), center left, the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57), center right, and the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Miami (SSN 755), lower right. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class William Lovelady.Tony Cowart
Mitscher 161k040428-N-5579M-004. Port Everglades, Fla., April 28 2004, Executive Chef James Reaux puts the final touch on a Crisp Hydro-Arugula salad, which is the appetizer for the Celebrity Chef Luncheon held aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). The luncheon was a part of Fleet Week. The Fleet Week celebration is an annual tradition thanking our nation's sea-going personnel for their dedicated service to our country. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class William Mosley.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 43kAtlantic Ocean, June 11 2004, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) steams alongside the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Ryan O'Connor Tony Cowart
Mitscher 74kNorfolk, VA March 5 2005.Wendell R McLaughlin Jr
Mitscher 79kPalma de Mallorca, Spain October 2005.Pedro Carreras
Mitscher 70kSouda Bay, Crete, Greece, October 25 2005, the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) prepares to arrive at Souda Bay’s Marathi NATO Pier Facility for a routine port visit on the Greek island of Crete. Mitscher deployed from her homeport of Norfolk, Va., in May and is currently engaged in Operation Active Endeavor, establishing a presence in the Mediterranean and patrolling merchant traffic to prevent terrorism and illegal activities. U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley.Tony Cowart
Mitscher 114kThe crew of the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) mans the rails as the ship arrives at Souda Bay's Marathi NATO Pier Facility on the Greek island of Crete for a routine port visit on October 25 2005. Mitscher is deployed from her homeport of Norfolk, Va., and is patrolling the Mediterranean to prevent terrorism and illegal activities. DoD photo by Paul Farley, U.S. Navy, ID# 051025-N-0780F-004.Tony Cowart/Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 48kNorfolk, VA, November 15 2005, sailors man-the rails aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) as the ship returns to Naval Station Norfolk, following a regularly scheduled six-month deployment in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Mitscher patrolled the Black Sea and strengthened allied capabilities by providing maritime interception operations training to Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine forces. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Gregory A. Roberts.Tony Cowart
Mitscher 34kNorfolk, VA, June 9 2006, the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) sails into Harbor Park during Norfolk Harborfest. The 30th Annual Harborfest included a Parade of Sail with over 700 water vessels, honoring Capt. Lane Briggs and officially kicked off the weekend celebration.U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Laura A. Moore.Tony Cowart
Mitscher 108kNorfolk, VA, September 12 2006, the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) as she sits moored pier side in Naval Station Norfolk. Copyright by terms of Creative Commons. Photo provided by T.M. Wolf.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 132k070416-N-6303M-068. South Atlantic Ocean, April 16 2007, an SH-60B Seahawk helicopter from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) Four Eight (HSL 48) "Vipers" transports pallets of food and medical and recreation equipment from the dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52) to the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) during a vertical replenishment (VERTREP), while underway. The supplies will be handed out to those in need in Montevideo, Uruguay, as part of Project Handclasp. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Flavia Marin.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 133k070429-N-5074X-017. Montevideo, Uruguay, April 29 2007, aailors assigned to the guided missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) load pallets of toys for Project Handclasp in Montevideo. The Boy’s Home "Maruja Stirling“, who is directed by the Uruguayan Institute for Children and Adolescents, was the recipient of the Project Handclap material. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Laura Dogger.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 83k070603-N-4021H-054. Pacific Ocean, June 3 2007, a Chilean Navy SH-32 Super Puma helicopter prepares to land on the flight deck of USS Mitscher (DDG 57) while engaged in multinational flight operations during the Teamwork South phase of Partnership of the Americas (POA) 2007. POA is focusing on enhancing relationships with partner nations through a variety of exercises and events at sea and on shore throughout South America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Damien Horvath.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 174k070605-N-4021H-012. Pacific Ocean, June 5 2007, the close-in weapon system (CIWS) fires from the aft mount aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) during live firing exercises. The firing exercises were conducted during the Team Work South phase of Partnership of the Americas (POA) 2007. POA is focusing on enhancing relationships with partner nations through a variety of exercises and events at sea and on shore throughout South America, Latin America, and the Caribbean. U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Damien Horvath.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 110k070831-N-1810F-849. Caribbean Sea, August 31 2007, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) maneuvers into position forward of the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) off the coast of Panama during PANAMAX 2007. Civil and military forces from 19 countries are participating in PANAMAX 2007, a U.S. Southern Command joint and multi-national training exercise co-sponsored with the government of Panama, in the waters off the coasts of Panama and Honduras. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 96k070918-N-8908S-011. Norfolk, VA, September 18 2007, guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) pulls into Naval Station Norfolk after a six-month deployment in support of Partnership of the Americas (POA). POA is designed to support U.S. Southern Command responsibilities by focusing on enhancing relationships with regional partner nations through a verity of exercises both at sea and ashore throughout South America and the Caribbean. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tiffany Stricklin.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 101k070918-N-8907D-083. Naval Station Norfolk, Va., September 18 2007, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) pulls into her homeport, after a six-month deployment in support of Partnership of the Americas (POA). POA is designed to support U.S. Southern Command responsibilities by focusing on enhancing relationships with regional partner nations through a variety of exercises both at sea and ashore throughout South America and the Caribbean. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Danals.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 184k070918-N-8907D-224. Naval Station Norfolk, Va., September 18 2007, a sailor tosses a heaving line to the pier as the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) prepares to moor . The destroyer is returning after a six-month deployment in support of Partnership of the Americas, a series of exercises both at sea and ashore throughout South America and the Caribbean. U.S. Navy photo by PO3 David Danals.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 90k080428-N-1082Z-014. Port Everglades, FL, April 28 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) pulls into port at Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., for Fleet Week. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky.Bill Gonyo/Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 167k080923-N-2570W-015. Atlantic Ocean, September 23 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) pulls alongside the the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) during a replenishment at sea. Mitscher is taking part in Exercise Joint Warrior, a course designed and led by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff in the United Kingdom. The exercise helps U.S. ships improve interoperability between allied navies and prepares participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during upcoming deployments. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Joseph R. Wax.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 138k080923-N-4519D-001. Atlantic Ocean, September 23 2008, an SH-60B Sea Hawk from the "Swamp Foxes" of Anti-Submarine Support Squadron (HS) 44 prepares to land on the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is taking part in Exercise Joint Warrior, a course designed and led by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff in the United Kingdom. The exercise helps U.S. ships improve interoperability between allied navies and prepares participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during upcoming deployments. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew DeWitt.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 149k080923-N-4879G-004. Atlantic Ocean, September 23 2008, sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) listen to a safety brief before a replenishment at sea with the the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195). Mitscher is taking part in Exercise Joint Warrior, a course designed and led by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff in the United Kingdom. The exercise helps U.S. ships improve interoperability between allied navies and prepares participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during upcoming deployments. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Patrick Grieco.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 169k080924-N-2570W-124. Atlantic Ocean, September 24 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) fires a five-inch gun during a training exercise in the Atlantic Ocean. Mitscher, along with four other ships led by Commander Destroyer Squadron 24, will participate in the Joint Warrior course, a multi-national exercise designed and led by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff (JTEPS) in the United Kingdom. The exercise helps U.S. ships improve interoperability between allied navies and prepares participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during upcoming deployments. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph R. Wax.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 123k080925-N-1706T-003. Atlantic Ocean, September 25 2008, Information Systems Technician 1st Class Kevin Heitsman signals the guided-missile frigate USS Klakring (FFG 42) during a group navigation exercise aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is in the Atlantic Ocean and will take part in Exercise Joint Warrior, a course designed and led by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff in the United Kingdom to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepares participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during upcoming deployments. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stephen Tate.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 163k090126-N-9985W-026. Norfolk, January 26 2009, Vice Adm. Mel Williams Jr., Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, speaks with the crew of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher will deploy Jan. 27 to participate in the British Royal Navy exercise Taurus 09. Taurus 09 is the major British Royal Navy deployment taking place in the Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East and South East Asia, which includes various British royal Navy ships and Mitscher. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tyler J. Wilson.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 96kThe guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG-57) and the Royal Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine HMS Torbay (S90) transit in formation during the U.K.-sponsored joint exercise Saxon Warrior 11, Atlantic Ocean, 20 May 2011. Mitscher is part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, which is deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua D. Sheppard. Image # 110520-N-PW494-353.Robert Hurst
Mitscher 148k111019-N-XQ375-346. Arabian Sea, October 19 2011, Sonar Technician Seaman Eugene Roberts, right, and Chief Sonar Technician Steven Kincade watch as Sonar Technician Seaman Darian Johnson fires an air slug from a MK-32 surface vessel torpedo tube aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B.King.Bill Gonyo
Mitscher 169k111207-N-XQ375-012. Atlantic Ocean, December 7 2011, Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class David Bowman walks the forecastle of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) and observes a test of the counter measure washdown system. Mitscher was completing a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Deven B. King, USN.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 166k111209-N-YM590-003. Atlantic Ocean, December 9 2011, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) sails toward her homeport. Mitscher was returning from a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian M. Brooks, USN.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 146k111210-N-YF306-035. Norfolk, Virginia, December 10 2011, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) moored at her homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, after completing a seven-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Chase, USN.Robert M. Cieri
Mitscher 149k120930-N-AB355-220. Faslane, Scotland, September 30 2012, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) gets underway from the port of Faslane, Scotland, to take part in exercise Joint Warrior 12-2, which is intended to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during deployments. The exercise takes place off the coast of Scotland and is designed and led by the joint tactical exercise planning staff in the United Kingdom. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Foster Bamford.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 144k140906-N-CN292-009. Atlantic Ocean, September 6 2014, the guided-missile destroyers USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) and USS Mitscher (DDG 57), the guided-missile frigate USS Simpson (FFG 56) and the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 96) align in a column behind USS Vicksburg (CG 69), not pictured. The ships are underway conducting an amphibious ready group and Marine expeditionary unit exercise with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU). U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Evan.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 162k140922-N-AZ301-197. Norfolk, September 22 2014, sailors from the guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) stand by as the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) departs Naval Station Norfolk for a deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Mitscher will conduct maritime security operations and ballistic missile defense as well as continue to strengthen coalition partnerships. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Jessica Kellogg.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 199k140922-N-AZ301-218. Norfolk, September 22 2014, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) departs Naval Station Norfolk for a deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Mitscher will conduct maritime security operations and ballistic missile defense as well as continue to strengthen coalition partnerships. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Jessica Kellogg.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 148k140924-N-RB546-282. Atlantic Ocean, September 24 2014, Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Chris Valentine fires a .50-caliber machine gun as Chief Gunner's Mate Michael Spofford administers the crew served weapons qualification aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is conducting maritime security operations and ballistic missile defense in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 248kSeptember 29 2014 at Ponta Delgada, Azores.Carlos Manuel Estrela
Mitscher 269k141016-N-RB546-546. Mediterranean Sea, October 16 2014, Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Timothy Chuck, aboard the Arleigh Burke-Class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57), gives spacing signals to the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195) during an underway replenishment and refueling at sea. Mitsche is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 112k141021-N-RB546-001. Red Sea,October 21 2014, Electronics Technician 2nd Class Nathaniel Merrill passes Damage Controlman Erik Green as he aims during a visit, board, search and seizure training aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher, homeported, in Norfolk, Va., is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 123k141107-N-RB546-050. Arabian Gulf, November 7 2014, sailors man the phone and distance line aboard the Arleigh Burke-Class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) during a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Rainier (T-AOE 7). Mitscher is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 106k141215-N-RB546-368. Arabian Sea, December 15 2014, the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) lights up its mast during night delayed landing qualifications with the Desert Hawks of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26. Mitscher is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, maritime security operations, and theater security cooperation efforts in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 115k141215-N-RB546-096. Arabian Sea, December 15 2014, sailors refuel an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Desert Hawks of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 during night delayed landing qualifications aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, maritime security operations, and theater security cooperation efforts in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 124k141216-N-RB546-199. Arabian Sea, December 16 2014, holiday greetings from schools in Virginia decorate the mess deck aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, maritime security operations, and theater security cooperation efforts in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 184k150213-N-RB546-118. Arabian Gulf, February 13 2015, sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) remove cargo nets from supplies after a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) as an SA-330J Puma helicopter flies supplies to the USS Milius (DDG 69), background, left. Mitscher is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 174k150214-N-RB546-020. Arabian Gulf, February 14 2015, Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class John Acheson signals an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the Desert Hawks of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 to land during flight operations aboard the Arleigh Burke-Class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57). Mitscher is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Anthony R. Martinez.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 220k150602-N-OA702-020. Atlantic Ocean, June 2 2015, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57), right, provides a warm welcome to the French tall ship replica the Hermione in the vicinity of the Battle of Virginia Capes off the East Coast of the United States. The original Hermione brought French Gen. Marquis de Lafayette to America in 1780 to inform Continental Army Gen. George Washington that a French army was headed for America to assist in the war effort. The symbolic return of the Hermione will pay homage to Lafayette and the Franco-American alliance that brought victory at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. The Hermione will visit Yorktown, Va. June 5 and then continue up the East Coast visiting cities of Franco-American historical significance. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael Sandberg.Ron Reeves
Mitscher 159kUSS Mitscher (DDG-57), right, provides a warm welcome to the French tall ship replica Hermione in the vicinity of the Battle of Virginia Capes off the East Coast of the United States, 2 June 2015. The Hermione will visit Yorktown, Virginia on 5 June and then continue up the East Coast visiting cities of Franco-American historical significance. U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael Sandberg. U.S. Navy News Service ID ID 150602-N-OA702-012.Robert Hurst
Mitscher 159k170913-N-EO381-210. Atlantic Ocean, September 13, 2017. The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 57) prepares to conduct a replenishment-at-sea with the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Medgar Evers (T-AKE 13). Winston S. Churchill is homeported in Norfolk, Va., and is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey J. Hopkins/Released) Dave Wright
Mitscher 54kShip's patch.Mike Smolinski
Mitscher 26kShip's patch.Gerd Matthes

USS MITSCHER DDG 57 History
View This Vessel's Command Operations Report entry
located at the Naval History & Heritage Command website
[This ship was built too late to be covered by the DANFS project]

Commanding Officers
01CDR Roy Joseph Balaconis (USNA 1976)10 December 1994 - 03 May 1996
02CDR Raymond Alexander Spicer (USNA 1979)03 May 1996 - 29 January 1998
03CDR Philip Hart Cullom (USNA 1979)29 January 1998 - 30 July 1999
04CDR Frank Craig Pandolfe (USNA 1980)30 July 1999 - 07 March 2001
05CDR Michael Ray Barclift (USNA 1983)07 March 2001 - 08 August 2002
06CDR Donald Allen Schmieley, Jr. (USNA 1984)08 August 2002 - 07 May 2004
07CDR Stephen Carl Evans07 May 2004 - 03 May 2006
08CDR William Patrick McKinley (USNA 1987)03 May 2006 - 17 August 2007
09CDR Daniel Bart Uhls17 August 2007 - 29 March 2009
10CDR Sterling Whipple Dawley (USNA 1991)29 March 2009 - 27 August 2010
11CDR Brian Keith Sorenson (USNA 1991)27 August 2010 - 24 February 2012
12CDR Monika Washington Stoker (USNA 1995)24 February 2012 - 13 October 2013
13CDR Frank Edward Brandon13 October 2013 - 10 April 2015
14CDR Milciades Antonio (Tony) Then (USNA 1997)10 April 2015 - 21 September 2016
15CDR Brett Roger Oster21 September 2016 - 09 March 2018
16CDR Ian James Scaliatine (USNA 2000)09 March 2018 - 16 August 2019
17CDR Matthew B. Cox16 August 2019 - 11 December 2020
18CDR Thomas David McCandless IV11 December 2020 - April 2022
19CDR Dominic J. KramerApril 2022 - 30 October 2023
20CDR Bethany R. Burdick (USNA 2006) 30 October 2023 - present

Courtesy Wolfgang Hechler and Ron Reeves

Additional Resources and Web Sites of Interest
USS Mitscher (DDG 57) website
Tin Can Sailors Website
Destroyer History Foundation
Destroyers Online Website
Official U.S.Navy Destroyer Website

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This page was created by Fred Willishaw (ex ARG-4, AS-11 & DD-692) and is maintained by David L. Wright
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Last Updated 12 July 2024