Photo: Getty Images
The submarine USS Chicago (SSN 721) returned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam last week (Nov 2) following a seven-month deployment.
It was the submarine’s final deployment and will now be decommissioned.
Chicago was commissioned Sept. 27, 1986 and the fourth U.S. Navy ship to be named for the city of Chicago. It is 360 feet long with a beam of 33 feet.
“I’m extremely proud of not only the Chicago Sailors but the Chicago families and supporters,” said Chicago’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Andrew Kopacz, from Hartford, Wisconsin. “Being gone from home is a challenge for the crew and we could not have remained focused on the mission without knowing our families were strong back at home. This crew demonstrated the fortitude, resiliency, and enthusiasm that make this country great. We are eager to reunite with our families and enjoy some down time in their company."
Photo: US Navy