USS Russell Improvements Almost Finished

USS Russell (DDG 59) is currently nearing completion of an $80 million Extended Dry Dock Selective Restrictive Availability (EDSRA) in San Diego, California. A significant part of the EDSRA consisted of livability improvements to the galley and berthings.

In addition to the upgraded galley, four of Russell’s seven berthing areas were completely gutted and redone. As a result, they all have new and fully-functioning racks, heads and lockers. Two additional berthings will be redone at a later date.

But it’s not just the equipment that is new on board Russell.

“Having an all-new team is a definite challenge,” said Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Kenneth P. Sheppard. “None of my E-4 and below have been to sea yet. They’ve spent their entire career in the yards so far.”

The EDSRA is part of the Naval Sea Systems Surface Warfare (SEA-21) comprehensive modernization program and is intended to ensure that Russell reaches the ship’s 35-year expected service life.

Russell is assigned as part of Destroyer Squadron 1.