The ship will serve alongside units assigned to Commander, Task Force 65 and Destroyer Squadron 60. Commissioned in late 2024, the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer can conduct air defense, anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare missions.
“Operating in the European theater provides our crews valuable opportunities to project combat power, maintain operational readiness, and defend the maritime approaches to the Homeland,” said Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet. “We welcome USS John Basilone and look forward to the ship joining our forward-deployed units.”
“We are proud to welcome USS John Basilone and her crew to Team Rota,” said Capt. Charles Chmielak, commander of U.S. Naval Activities Spain and Naval Station Rota. “Naval Station Rota remains committed to providing the operational support our Sailors and ships need to remain ready, responsive, and prepared to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex security environment.”
“Our crew is honored to bring Gunnery Sgt. Basilone’s legacy to Europe,” said Cmdr. T. Max Murphy, John Basilone’s commanding officer. “We are eager to integrate into the Rota community, work alongside our Spanish hosts, and support America’s ability to deter and win future conflicts.”
The destroyer, designated DDG 122, is named after Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. John Basilone. He received the Medal of Honor for his actions at Guadalcanal in 1942 and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for bravery at Iwo Jima in 1945.
Basilone was the only enlisted Marine in World War II to receive both decorations. His namesake ship now operates in the region served by U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy.
The fleet conducts joint and naval operations across Europe and Africa. Those operations frequently involve allied and partner forces supporting maritime security and stability.
