ISLAND residents participated Tuesday in a tour of the USS Shoup, a 509-foot Arleigh Burke-class destroyer that is part of the USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group.
Named for Medal of Honor recipient Gen. David M. Shoup, the 22nd commandant of the Marine Corps, the USS Shoup is homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. Its mission is to track and defend against ballistic missile threats in the Pacific.
The USS Shoup arrived at the Port of Saipan on Sunday, Aug. 17, for rest and relaxation. She brought 340 sailors, who have been staying at island hotels and touring the island, according to Chief Warrant Officer Abner Muniz.
“We’re exceptionally proud of the ship and the mission, and we’re super happy to be here in Saipan for a little bit of rest and relaxation,” said the ship’s commanding officer, Capt. Holman Agard.
During the tour, residents were able to visit the helicopters aboard the ship and see areas where naval personnel control the engines, drive the ship, and manage its weapons systems.
The USS Shoup is scheduled to depart Saipan today, Thursday, Aug. 21.
Residents who are part of the tour pose for a photo on the helicopter landing pad aboard the USS Shoup.
Island residents and crewmembers of the USS Shoup pose aboard the ship.
According to Chief Warrant Officer Abner Muniz, the helicopters aboard the USS Shoup are capable of search and rescue, as well as anti-submarine missions.
