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USS STETHEM (DDG 63)


Flag Hoist/Radio Call Sign - NSTE


"Steadfast and Courageous"
CLASS - BURKE Flight I As Built.
Displacement 8373 Tons (Full), Dimensions, 504' 7" (oa) x 66' 11" x 20' (Max)
Armament 1 x 5"/54 RF, 2 Phalanx 20mm Guns, 90 VLS Cells,
8 Harpoon Missiles, 6 x 12.75" TT.
Machinery, 100,000 SHP; 4 GE LM-2500 Gas Turbines, 2 screws
Speed, 30+ Knots, Range 4400 NM@ 20 Knots, Crew 370.
Operational and Building Data
Built by Litton-Ingalls Shipbuilding, Pascagoula, MS (YN 5263)
Contract awarded 22 February 1990
Laid down 11 May 1993
Launched 17 June 1994
Christened 16 July 1994
Commissioned 21 October 1995
Active unit of the US Navy
Homeported at San Diego, California, 1995 - June 2005
Homeported Yokosuka, Japan, June 2005 - July 2019
Homeported San Diego, July 2019 - present
One sailor died in service aboard and remains on duty

LT Steven D. Hopkins USN, South China Sea, 01 August 2017


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Namesake
Stethem 116kSteelworker Second Class Robert Dean Stethem (DV) USNSteven A. Cardali
USS Stethem (DDG 63)
Stethem 146kUSS Stethem (DDG-63) poster courtesy of Lockheed Martin.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 84kUndated, in San Diego harbor.Gerd Matthes
Stethem 65kUndated, in San Diego harbor.Gerd Matthes
Stethem 99kThe Christening coin.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 49kThe Christening program.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 101kThe Christening July 16 1994.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 101kThe ship's sponsor, Patricia L. Stethem.Steven A. Cardali
Stethem 397kStethem (DDG 63) is christened by Mrs. Patricia L. Stethem, mother of Robert D. Stethem.Dale Hargrave
Stethem 229kUSS Benfold (DDG-65) in the foreground underway, probably during builder's sea trials in 1995. She is accompanied by USS Stethem (DDG-63). Note that Stethem wears a Destroyer Squadron insignia on her forward smokestack, while Benfold does not. Photograph by Ingalls Shipbuilding. Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command. Photo # NH 106845-KN.Robert Hurst
Stethem 190kUSS Stethem (DDG-63), Underway during builders sea trials on 1 May 1995. Photograph by Ingalls Shipbuilding. Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval History and Heritage Command. Photo # NH 106838-KN.Robert Hurst
Stethem 87kThe Commissioning program.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 74kMay 1 1995, Gulf of Mexico, an aerial starboard beam view of the guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG-63) underway during builder`s sea trials.Fred Weiss
Stethem 60kMay 1 1995, Gulf of Mexico, a port beam view of the guided missile destroyer USS Stethem(DDG-63) underway during builder`s sea trials. The Stethem has been assigned to Pacific Fleet Destroyer Squadron 21 (DESRON21).Fred Weiss
Stethem 27kSan Francisco October 1996.Marc Piché
Stethem 62kFremantle, Australia October 18 1997.Marc Piché
Stethem 47kFremantle, Australia October 23 1997.Marc Piché
Stethem 32kColumbia River June 12 2000.Marc Piché
Stethem 34kLongview, WA June 12 2000.Marc Piché
Stethem 27kSan Diego, CA June 2000.Tom Case
Stethem 33kSan Diego, CA July 28 2001.Marc Piché
Stethem 65kUSS Stethem (DDG 63) moored pierside during Fleet Week 2002 in San Diego. The first Fleet Week was celebrated in San Diego during the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 45kAt sea aboard USS Stethem (DDG 63) Oct. 16, 2002, a U.S. Navy Tomahawk cruise missile launches from the Arleigh Burke Class guided missile destroyer’s vertical launch system at the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) western test range complex off the coast of California, in the Pacific Ocean. U.S. Navy photo.Fred Weiss
Stethem 70kThe first sunset of the year provides a beautiful backdrop for the guided missile destroyers USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), USS Stethem (DDG 63), USS Howard (DDG 83). The ships are decorated with holiday lights as they are moored in San Diego. U.S. Navy photo.Fred Weiss
Stethem 64k030508-N-0000X-001 A Tactical Tomahawk Cruise Missile launches from guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) during a live-warhead test. The missile traveled 760 nautical miles to successfully impact it’s intended target on San Clemente Island, part of the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) test range in Southern California. (All Hands magazine photo by: U.S. Navy , January 2004, pg. 54.)Bill Gonyo
Stethem 146k040312-N-3874J-002. San Diego, Calif., March 12 2004, Lt. Cmdr. Joseph Darlak, Executive Officer of the guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), welcomes 375 elementary school students aboard the ship. Students from John Adams Elementary School in San Diego had the chance to see firsthand what ship life is like aboard Stethem. The event was organized by the 1st Class Petty Officers Association, which gave the students a chance to interact with the Sailors. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Daniel A. Jones. Bill Gonyo
Stethem 99kPacific Ocean, March 23 2006, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) and guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG-63), foreground, sail in formation with Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) (foreground to background) guided missile destroyer JDS Hatakaze (DDG-171), destroyer JDS Harusame (DD-102), and guided missile destroyer JDS Kirishima (DDG-174). The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier spent three days conducting exercises with JMDSF and took part in an officer exchange program as part of a passing exercise (PASSEX). Abraham Lincoln and Carrier Air Wing Two (CVW-2) were on a scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class M. Jeremie Yoder (# 060323-N-6074Y-063).Fabio Peña
Stethem 70kAkita, Japan, April 4 2006, USS Stethem (DDG 63) arrived in Akita, Japan, April 4 for a scheduled port visit. Before arriving, the ship participated in Exercise Foal Eagle with other Navy ships and the Republic of Korea. Following the port visit, Stethem will continue on a routine deployment in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility in the Western Pacific. Photo by Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW) Keith Van Hoosen.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 45k060504-N-4953E-007, Yokosuka, Japan, May 4 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) prepares to tow the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) during a towing exercise (TOWEX), an exercise that allows a ship to use a rare complex procedure for towing ships that are in need of assistance. Wilbur and Stethem are participating in Multi-Sail 2006 assigned to Destroyer Squadron One Five (DESRON-15). Multi-Sail is an exercise that allows ships in the Forward Deployed Naval Force to maximize their combat readiness level by participating in maneuvering exercises between ships and allows them to operate in a multi-ship environment. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Tony Cowart
Stethem 67k060504-N-4953E-010, Yokosuka, Japan, May 4 2006, boatswain's mates heave lines as the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) prepares to tow the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) during a towing exercise (TOWEX), an exercise that allows a ship to use a rare complex procedure for towing ships that are in need of assistance. Wilbur and Stethem are participating in Multi-Sail 2006 assigned to Destroyer Squadron One Five (DESRON-15). Multi-Sail is an exercise that allows ships in the Forward Deployed Naval Force to maximize their combat readiness level by participating in maneuvering exercises between ships and allows them to operate in a multi-ship environment. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Tony Cowart
Stethem 49k060504-N-4953E-008, Yokosuka, Japan, May 4 2006, boatswain's mates heave lines as the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) prepares to tow the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) during a towing exercise (TOWEX), an exercise that allows a ship to use a rare complex procedure for towing ships that are in need of assistance.Wilbur and Stethem are participating in Multi-Sail 2006 assigned to Destroyer Squadron One Five (DESRON-15). Multi-Sail is an exercise that allows ships in the Forward Deployed Naval Force to maximize their combat readiness level by participating in maneuvering exercises between ships and allows them to operate in a multi-ship environment. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Tony Cowart
Stethem 54k060504-N-4953E-027, Pacific Ocean, May 4 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) tows the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) during a towing exercise (TOWEX). Wilbur and Stethem are participating in Multi-Sail 2006. Multi-Sail is an exercise that allows ships in the Forward Deployed Naval Force to maximize their combat readiness level by participating in maneuvering exercises between ships and allows them to operate in a multi-ship environment. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Tony Cowart
Stethem 33k060504-N-4953E-031, Pacific Ocean, May 4 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) tows the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) during a towing exercise (TOWEX). Wilbur and Stethem are participating in Multi-Sail 2006. Multi-Sail is an exercise that allows ships in the Forward Deployed Naval Force to maximize their combat readiness level by participating in maneuvering exercises between ships and allows them to operate in a multi-ship environment. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Tony Cowart
Stethem 51k060504-N-4953E-023, Pacific Ocean, May 4 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) tows the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) during a towing exercise (TOWEX). Wilbur and Stethem are participating in Multi-Sail 2006. Multi-Sail is an exercise that allows ships in the Forward Deployed Naval Force to maximize their combat readiness level by participating in maneuvering exercises between ships and allows them to operate in a multi-ship environment. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Tony Cowart
Stethem 110kDN-SD-07-00330, 060504-N-4953E-029. US Navy (USN) Quartermaster Third Class (QM3) Carrin Johnson studies a navigational chart to plot the course of his ship, the USN Arleigh Burke Class Guided Missile Destroyer (AEGIS) USS STETHEM (DDG 63), during Exercise Multi-Sail 2006 in the Pacific Ocean. MULTI-SAIL 2006 is designed to help USN Sailors in the Forward Deployed Naval Force (FDNF) maximize their combat readiness by practicing maneuver training between ships. The training also gives the USN Sailors a chance to operate in multi-ship environment. Photo by ENS Danny Ewing, Jr., May 4 2006.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 190k060614-N-4953E-001. Yokosuka, Japan, June 15 2006, guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) Sailors participate in a memorial for the ship’s namesake, Robert D. Stethem. Navy diver, Steelworker 2nd Class Robert Stethem, who was returning from an assignment in the Middle East, when he was taken hostage aboard TWA 847 commercial airliner. The flight was hijacked by terrorists, and Stethem was shot to death after being tortured by the terrorists on June 15, 1985. USS Stethem (DDG 63) is currently a part of the Forward Deployed Naval Force stationed in Yokosuka, Japan and is dry docked for a three-month selective restricted availability. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 149k060621-N-5686B-007. Yokosuka, June 21 2006, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) being removed from dry dock assisted by Kittanning (YTB 787) at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, during a selected restricted availability. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Crystal Brooks.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 86k060621-N-5686B-006. Yokosuka, June 21 2006, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) prepares to be removed from dry dock assisted by Kittanning (YTB 787) at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, during a selected restricted availability. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Crystal Brooks.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 130k060621-N-5686B-008. Yokosuka, June 21 2006, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) is guided out of dry dock by Kittanning (YTB 787) to be moored pier side at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, during a selected restricted availability. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Crystal Brooks.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 166k061023-N-4953E-001. Coast of the Philippines, October 23 2006, a visit, board, search, and seizure team assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) and Philippine Navy Special Operations Group board a rigid hull inflatable boat for training. The two groups trained in close battle combat and pier movement on board an oil rig. Stethem is off the coast of the Philippines participating in bilateral exercises Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing Exercise '07. Stethem is a part of the forward-deployed naval force stationed in Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Recruit Chad Ross Erdmann.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 225k061023-N-4953E-005. Coast of the Philippines, October 23 2006, a visit, board, search, and seizure team assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) and Philippine Navy Special Operations Group board a rigid hull inflatable boat for training The two groups trained in close battle combat and pier movement on board an oil rig. Stethem is off the coast of the Philippines participating in bilateral exercises Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing Exercise '07. Stethem is a part of the forward-deployed naval force stationed in Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Recruit Chad Ross Erdmann.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 166k061023-N-4953E-007. The Philippines, October 23 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) steams by as the American flag on a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) transporting Sailors of a visit, board, search and seizure team and a Philippine navy special operations group to conduct training off the coast of the Philippines. The two groups trained in close battle combat and pier movement aboard an oil platform. Stethem is off the coast of the Philippines participating in bilateral exercises, Exercise Talon Vision (TV 07) an Amphibious Landing Exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Danny Ewing Jr.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 151k061026-N-6059G-035. Batangas Bay, Philippines, October 26 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) underway during oil platform protection training with a Philippines Naval Special Operations Group detached from the Philippines ship RP Artemio Ricarte (PS 37) as part of exercises Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing Exercise '07. U.S. Navy photo by Cryptologic Technician Technical 2nd Class Natasha Glover.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 130k070203-N-4649C-157. The on scene leader, right, guides the nozzleman in the direction of a hot spot during a simulated fire Feb. 3, 2007, onboard the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) at sea. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chantel M. Clayton.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 113k070212-N-1251W-002. February 12 2007, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), with the assistance of Kittanning (YTB 787) pulls alongside USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) as she returns to the forward deployed operating base: Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, following a scheduled underway period. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew R. White.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 188k070212-N-5253W-002. February 12 2007, two District Harbor Tugs, Kittanning YTB 787 and Opelika YTB 798, nestle alongside and guide the USS Stethem (DDG 63) to the pier, as she pulls into: Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer is returning to Yokosuka after completing two weeks of drills at sea. U.S. Navy photo by: Seaman Gabriel S. Weber.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 146kBoatswain's Mate 3rd Class Allen Solis explains aspects of his job to Chinese North Sea Fleet Chief of Staff Rear Adm. Yongqing Zhao and his staff May 23, 2007. The Chinese officers received a tour of the Stethem from the commanding officer, executive officer, and command master chief. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 113k070528-N-7883G-048. U.S. Navy Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Tyler Neve steers the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) while under way in the Pacific Ocean May 28, 2007. The USS Stethem Sailors must complete one month of training before becoming certified to steer the ship. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 148kUSS Stethem, Western Pacific, July 15 2007, Commander Task Force 70, Rear Adm. Wren, awards the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) pin to Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Lucas Zuber, while aboard USS Stethem (DDG 63) for a short visit July 15. Rear Adm. Wren met with the officers and crew of Stethem and thanked them for their contributions to Battle Force Seventh Fleet’s readiness. Stethem is currently on deployment as part of the Kitty Hawk Carrier Strike Group. U.S. Navy photo by Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Marc de St. AubinBill Gonyo
Stethem 90kUSS Stethem (DDG-63) as she pulls alongside the fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericson (T-AO-194) while USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) refuels, Pacific Ocean, July 29 2007.Robert Hurst
Stethem 165k070731-N-4953E-002. Pacific Ocean, July 31 2007, Internal Communications Electrician Lindsey Bricher stands watch as Phone and Distance phone talker on the bridge wing of Arleigh Burke-class Guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) during a Connected Replenishment (CONREP) with Military Sealift Command (MSC) Fleet Replenishment Oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194) as the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) also performs a CONREP. The Kitty Hawk Strike Group just completing Talisman Saber 07, an exercise designed to maintain a high level of interoperability between U.S. and Australian forces, demonstrating the U.S. and Australian commitment to our military alliance and regional security. U.S. Navy photo by Lt.j.g. Danny Ewing Jr.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 89kLoading of the MQ-8B Fire Scout, VTUAV, occurred in February 2008 at Naval Base, Yokosuka Japan. It was the first time the VTUAV was handled for a "fit check" by US 7th Fleet and the first time aboard a DDG-51 Flight I class. The Fire Scout pictured is production aircraft # 6 for US Navy--now flying.Curt Orchard
Stethem 46kAs above, on March 4 2008 while alongside the USS Shiloh (CG-67).Curt Orchard
Stethem 51kAs above, on March 4 2008 while alongside the USS Shiloh (CG-67).Curt Orchard
Stethem 195k080326-N-9520G-002. Yokosuka, March 26 2008, line handlers from USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) heave on the aft mooring lines as large harbor tugs assist USS Stethem (DDG 63) as it conducts a Mediterranean mooring evolution at Fleet Activities Yokosuka. McCain and Stethem are two of seven Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15, which operates out of Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nardelito Gervacio.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 130k080326-N-9520G-001. Yokosuka, Japan, March 27 2008, line handlers assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) heave on the aft mooring lines as large harbor tugs assist the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) as it moors at Fleet Activities Yokosuka. McCain and Stethem are two of seven Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nardelito Gervacio.Robert M. Cieri/Bill Gonyo
Stethem 162k080614-N-6775D-079. Busan, Republic of Korea, June 14 2008, Sonar Technician 2nd Class Keith Martinez and Ship's Serviceman 2nd Class Harlig Medina, assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), lay a wreath during the memorial ceremony for Steelworker 2nd Class Robert D Stethem. Stethem, the ship's namesake, was killed June 14, 1985 by hijackers aboard TWA Flight 847 after he was discovered as an American Sailor. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Intelligence Specialist Marc de St Aubin.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 163k090206-N-5253W-035. Gulf of Thailand, February 6 2009, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) transits the Gulf of Thailand supporting the Essex Expeditionary Strike Group, preparing for participation in Cobra Gold 2009. Cobra Gold is an annual Kingdom of Thailand and U.S. co-sponsored military exercise designed to train U.S. and partner Asian-pacific forces. The exercise will include humanitarian projects with participants from Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and the United States. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gabriel S. Weber.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 206k100812-N-8113T-042. Yokosuka, Japan, August 12 2010, Lt. Bobby Jones, from Atlanta, a weapons officer aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), describes the purpose and capabilities of the vertical launching system to a group of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) soldiers during a cooperative work program shipboard tour. The work program is a partnership between the U.S. Army and JGSDF that blends a group of JGSDF service members into various commands Camp Zama at U.S. Army Garrison, Japan, to practice English and learn about U.S. military structure. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class N. Ross Taylor.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 137kOkinawa, Japan, November 12 2010, USS Stethem (DDG 63) is assisted into port by local tug boats as it makes a port visit to Command Fleet Activities, Okinawa in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Roadell Hickman.Bill Gonyo
Stethem 134k101206-N-2218S-012. East China Sea, December 6 2010, the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) underway, during Keen Sword 2011. Keen Sword is a U.S.-Japan bilateral naval exercise designed to strengthen joint military operations. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Ryan Smith.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 134k110218-N-9094S-179. Pacific Ocean, February 18 2011, the U.S. 7th Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), left, and the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) align course in preparation for an underway replenishment. Blue Ridge serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy's only forward deployed amphibious force. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian A. Stone.Lee Wahler
Stethem 165k110218-N-9094S-427. Pacific Ocean, February 18 2011, the U.S. 7th Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), right, the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199), and the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) conduct an underway replenishment while underway in the Pacific Ocean. Blue Ridge serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy's only forward deployed amphibious force. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brian A. Stone.Lee Wahler
Stethem 141k110331-N-OX597-133. Sasebo, Japan, March 31 2011, sailors stand at parade rest on the pier as the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) departs after a port call at U.S. Fleet Activities Sasebo. Stethem is based at Commander Fleet Activates Yokosuka, Japan. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Richard Doolin.Robert M. Cieri
Stethem 235k140730-N-IP531-529. Waters East of Okinawa, July 30 2014, the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), foreground, participates in a photo exercise with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Ashigara (DDG 178), the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), an unidentified naval vessel and the guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) during Malabar 2014. Malabar is a U.S. Navy, Indian navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force naval exercise to improve collective maritime relationships and increase understanding in multinational operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chris Cavagnaro.Ron Reeves
Stethem 121k140915-N-UN259-006. Pacific Ocean, September 15 2014, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) fires a Harpoon missile during a sinking exercise as part of Valiant Shield 2014. Air and sea units from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force participated in the sinking exercise of the ex-USS Fresno to gain proficiency in tactics, targeting and live-firing against a surface target at sea. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Alonzo M. Archer.Ron Reeves
Stethem 193k140920-N-UN259-059. Waters near Guam, September 20 2014, Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Antonio Franco, from Tonopah, Nev., fires a shot line from a modified M14 rifle from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) to the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) during an underway replenishment. Stethem is underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Alonzo M. Archer.Ron Reeves
Stethem 186k141106-N-UN259-082. Pacific Ocean, November 6 2014, Gunner's Mate Seaman Antwon Thompson, from Lorton, Va. fires a shot line from a modified M-14 rifle from the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) to the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194). Stethem is on patrol with the George Washington Carrier Strike Group supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Alonzo M. Archer.Ron Reeves
Stethem 151k150730-N-UF697-057. Qingdao, China, July 30 2015, Cmdr. Harry Marsh, left, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), bids farewell to Peoples Liberation Army Navy Senior Capt. Jin Wei, director of the General Office of the North Sea Fleet, after a port visit to Qingdao, China. The purpose of the port call in Qingdao is to continue to build key diplomatic and military relationships and to illustrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to broadening ties in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin V. Cunningham.Ron Reeves
Stethem 166k151114-N-UF697-245. East China Sea, November 14 2015, sailors participate in a M16 live-fire exercise on the flight deck of the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63). Stethem is on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of operation in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin V. Cunningham.Ron Reeves
Stethem 146k151120-N-UF697-067. Shanghai, November 20 2015, sailors aboard the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) prepare to leave port while the People's Liberation Army Navy Jiangkai II class guided-missile frigate Xuzhou (FFG 530) gets underway. Stethem visited Shanghai to build relationships with the PLA Navy and demonstrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin V. Cunningham.Ron Reeves
Stethem 138k151122-N-UF697-015. Waters South of Japan. November 22 2015, Ensign Savannah R. Stafford, assigned to the forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63), marks the course and speed in preparation for an underway-replenishment with the Fleet Replenishment Oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) during Annual Exercise (AE) 16 while the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 62) is seen taking on fuel. Stethem is participating in AE16 to increase interoperability between Japanese and American forces through training in air and sea operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin V. Cunningham.Ron Reeves
Stethem 84k160722-N-OU129-135. Singapore, July 22 2016, the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Buffalo (SSN 715) and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) depart Changi Naval Base for the at-sea phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Singapore 2016. CARAT is a series of annual maritime exercises between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations to include Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor-Leste. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Fulton.Ron Reeves
Stethem 162k160923-N-NT265-419. Philippine Sea, September 23 2016. USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) lead a formation of Carrier Strike Group Five and Expeditionary Strike Group Seven ships including, USS Momsen (DDG 92), USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), USS Stethem (DDG 63), USS Benfold (DDG 65), USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), USS Germantown (LSD 42), USS Barry (DDG 52), USS Green Bay (LPD 20), USS McCampbell (DDG 85), as wells as USNS Walter S. Diehl (T-AO 193) during a photo exercise to signify the completion of Valiant Shield 2016. Valiant Shield is a biennial, U.S. only, field-training exercise with a focus on integration of joint training among U.S. forces. This is the sixth exercise in the Valiant Shield series that began in 2006. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christian Senyk.Ron Reeves
Stethem 142kU.S. 7th Fleet Area of Operations, March 22 2017, the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), foreground, and the guided-missile destroyer USS Stethem (DDG 63) participate in a photo exercise during Operation Foal Eagle. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment as part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet-led initiative to extend the command and control functions of U.S. 3rd Fleet. U.S Navy aircraft carrier strike groups have patrolled the Indo-Asia-Pacific regularly and routinely for more than 70 years. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Z.A. Landers.Ron Reeves
Stethem 149k170503-N-BL637-149. Pacific Ocean, May 3 2017, The Republic of Korea destroyers Sejong the Great (DDG 991) and Yang Manchun (DDH 973), the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and USS Stethem (DDG 63), the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) and the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) transit the western Pacific Ocean. The U.S. Navy has patrolled the Indo-Asia-Pacific routinely for more than 70 years promoting regional peace and security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean M. Castellano.Ron Reeves
Stethem 553k170616-N-DZ075-066. YOKOSUKA, Japan (June 16, 2017) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Stethem (DDG 63) and USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) undergo routine maintenance at Fleet Activities (FLEACT) Yokosuka. Stethem is forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan Harper/Released)Dave Wright
Stethem 31kShip's patch.S. E. 'Bill' Wightman
Stethem 47kShip's patch.Mike Smolinski

USS STETHEM DDG 63 History
Note: History is unavailable at this time
[This ship was built too late to be covered by the DANFS project]

Commanding Officers
01CDR Stephen Craig Miller21 October 1995 - 04 April 1997
02CDR James Lawrence O'Keefe III04 April 1997 - 25 September 1998
03CDR Gerard Paul (Gerry) Hueber25 September 1998 - 07 April 2000
04CDR Craig Stephen Faller07 April 2000 - 21 November 2001
05CDR David Whiting Melin21 November 2001 - 03 July 2003
06CDR Charles Francis Williams03 July 2003 - 12 May 2005
07CDR Robert Philip Gonzales12 May 2005 - 12 December 2006
08CDR Paul Joseph Lyons12 December 2006 - 29 May 2008
09CDR Shan Michael Byrne29 May 2008 - 11 December 2009
10CDR Henry Clay Adams III11 December 2009 - 19 May 2011
11CDR Michael (Brent) De Vore19 May 2011 - 20 November 2012
12CDR Christopher Wayne Adams20 November 2012 - 20 May 2014
13CDR John F. Bradford 120 May 2014 - 24 October 2014
14CAPT Christopher John Sweeney (TDY)24 October 2014 - 03 December 2014
15CDR Harry Lee Marsh03 December 2014 - 12 May 2016
16CDR Douglas James Pegher12 May 2016 - 28 September 2017
17CDR Jeffrey Warren Benson28 September 2017 - 24 May 2019
18CDR John P. Rummel IV24 May 2019 - 24 September 2020
19CDR John Richard Kajmowicz (USNA 2001)24 September 2020 - 25 January 2022
20CDR Bryan Patrick Hart (USNA 2003)25 January 2022 - June 2023
21CDR James N. WattsJune 2023 - present
1. Relieved "due to loss of confidence in ability to command" after running down a native canoe off Subic Bay, 13 October 2014.

Courtesy Wolfgang Hechler and Ron Reeves

Additional Resources and Web Sites of Interest
USS Stethem (DDG 63) website
Tin Can Sailors Website
Destroyer History Foundation
Destroyers Online Website
Official U.S.Navy Destroyer Website

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This page was created by Fred Willishaw (ex ARG-4, AS-11 & DD-692) and is maintained by David L. Wright
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Last Updated 09 February 2024