Los Angeles-Class Attack Submarine USS San Juan Participates in ‘Deplaquing Ceremony’

Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS San Juan (SSN 751) participated in a “deplaquing” ceremony at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Jan. 19, marking the end of the submarine’s maintenance period.

“This was only achievable due to the efforts of the San Juan crew and project team. Together we overcame resource and material challenges through innovation and flexibility. We are anxious to get back to submarine warfighting and prepare this fine ship for the next ten years of success,” said Cmdr. Ollie Lewis.

San Juan and its crew of 13 officers and 121 enlisted personnel arrived at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard April 8, 2010. While at the shipyard, the submarine underwent an engineered overhaul consisting of various maintenance work and several system upgrades.

“San Juan is poised to return to the fleet as scheduled and in the best possible material condition,” said Lewis.

During the submarine’s maintenance period in Portsmouth, the crew participated in various community activities with their sponsoring community of Biddeford. Some of the activities include marching in the annual Memorial Day parade and Biddeford-Saco Veterans Day parade; providing clothing to the Maine Veterans’ Home in Scarborough; and supporting the local Toys for Tots.

San Juan is the third ship of the U.S. Navy to be named for San Juan, Puerto Rico. The first San Juan (SP 1352) was acquired by the Navy from the San Juan Packing Company of Seattle and used as a minesweeper and patrol boat during World War I. The second San Juan (CL 54) was an Atlanta-class anti-aircraft cruiser that served during World War II. The third San Juan (SSN 751) was the first of the “improved” Los Angeles-class submarines, capable of under-ice operations.

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Naval Today Staff , January 24, 2012; Image: navy