JUNEAU, Alaska (KINY) — The USS William P. Lawrence, a key player in the U.S. Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class of guided-missile destroyers, recently participated in Juneau’s Maritime Festival, underscoring its operational capabilities and engaging with the local community.
Commissioned on June 4, 2011, the ship is named after Vice Admiral William P. Lawrence, a revered naval aviator and Vietnam War prisoner of war, celebrated for his valor and leadership. The destroyer is equipped with weaponry including Aegis combat systems, anti-aircraft and missile defense capabilities, making it an asset in the Navy’s fleet.
The ship’s participation in the Maritime Festival from May 4 to May 9 was part of its broader mission to foster community relations and enhance public understanding of naval operations. Docked at the Cruise Ship Terminal Dock, the USS William P. Lawrence opened its doors to the public, providing tours that showcased the ship’s cutting-edge technology and the daily routines of its crew.
Operational Capabilities and Missions The USS William P. Lawrence is designed to fulfill a variety of roles, including peacetime presence, crisis management, sea control, and power projection. It is capable of engaging in offensive and defensive operations against aircraft, submarines, and land targets. The destroyer is armed with SM-2 and SM-3 missiles for ballistic missile defense, Tomahawk missiles for long-range strike capabilities, and anti-submarine rockets. Additionally, it carries two helicopters for anti-submarine warfare, enhancing its versatility in various combat scenarios.
Global Deployments and Strategic Impact Throughout its service, the USS William P. Lawrence has been deployed across many of the world’s pivotal maritime regions. The ship has sailed through the Western Pacific, enhancing the U.S. Navy’s ability to ensure security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. It has participated in multinational naval exercises with allies, demonstrating U.S. commitment to maritime security and regional stability.
For more information about Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, please visit: https://www.c3f.navy.mil/
For more information about USS William P. Lawrence, please visit: https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/ddg110/
