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USS GONZALEZ (DDG-66)


Flag Hoist/Radio Call Sign - NGON

"Beyond the Call"
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 Bath Iron Works, Bath, Maine (YN 458)
Contract awarded 16 January 1991
Laid down 03 February 1994
Launched 18 February 1995
Commissioned 12 October 1996
In November 1996 while on post commissioning shakedown,
Gonzalez ran aground off Puerto Rico causing extensive damage.
She was towed back to Bath Iron Works for repair. Estimated
damage was 50 - 60 Million and 9 - 12 months for repair.
Returned to service in September 1997, repair costs were much lower than
estimated, only 10 million was required for repairs.
Active unit of the US. Navy.
Homeported at Norfolk, Virginia
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Namesake
Gonzalez 14kAlfredo 'Freddy' Cantu Gonzalez was born May 23, 1946, in Edinburg, Texas. He graduated from Lamar Grammar School in 1955, and from Edinburg High School in 1965. Enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve at San Antonio, Texas, June 3, 1965, he completed Recruit Training with 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Dept, San Diego, California, the following September, and Individual Combat Training 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry training regiment, Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California, that October. After completing Individual Combat Training, he became a rifleman with Headquarters and Service Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Rein), FMF, and served in that capacity until January 1966. He next saw a one year Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division (Rein), FMF. He was promoted to Private First Class, January 1, 1966; to Lance Corporal, October 1, 1966, and to Corporal, December 1, 1966. Upon his return to the United States in February 1967, he reported for duty as a rifleman with 2nd Battalion, Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton, California, for transfer to the Far East. On July 1, 1967, he was promoted to Sergeant, and later that month, arrived in the Republic of Vietnam. He served as Squad Leader and Platoon Sergeant with 3rd Platoon Company "A", 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein), FMF. While participating in the initial phase of Operation HUE CITY in the vicinity of Thua Thien, Vietnam, on February 4, 1968, Sergeant Gonzalez was mortally wounded from hostile rocket fire. A complete list of medals and decorations include: the Medal of Honor; the Purple Heart; the Presidential Unit Citation; the National Defense Service Medal; the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars; the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with palm; the Military Merit Medal; and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal."

SERGEANT ALFREDO 'FREDDY' CANTU GONZALEZ
Medal of Honor Citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as platoon commander, 3rd Platoon, Company A. On 31 January 1968, during the initial phase of Operation Hue City, Sgt. Gonzalez' unit was formed as a reaction force and deployed to Hue to relieve the pressure on the beleaguered city. While moving by truck convoy along Route No. 1, near the village of Lang Van Lrong, the marines received a heavy volume of enemy fire. Sgt. Gonzalez aggressively maneuvered the marines in his platoon, and directed their fire until the area was cleared of snipers. Immediately after crossing a river south of Hue, the column was again hit by intense enemy fire. One of the marines on top of a tank was wounded and fell to the ground in an exposed position. With complete disregard for his safety, Sgt. Gonzalez ran through the fire swept area to the assistance of his injured comrade. He lifted him up and though receiving fragmentation wounds during the rescue, he carried the wounded marine to a covered position for treatment. Due to the increased volume and accuracy of enemy fire from a fortified machine gun bunker on the side of the road, the company was temporarily halted. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Sgt. Gonzalez exposed himself to the enemy fire and moved his platoon along the east side of a bordering rice paddy to a dike directly across from the bunker. Though fully aware of the danger involved, he moved to the fire-swept road and destroyed the hostile position with hand grenades. Although seriously wounded again on 3 February, he steadfastly refused medical treatment and continued to supervise his men and lead the attack. On 4 February, the enemy had again pinned the company down, inflicting heavy casualties with automatic weapons and rocket fire. Sgt. Gonzalez, utilizing a number of light antitank assault weapons, fearlessly moved from position to position firing numerous rounds at the heavily fortified enemy emplacements. He successfully knocked out a rocket position and suppressed much of the enemy fire before falling mortally wounded. The heroism, courage, and dynamic leadership displayed by Sgt. Gonzalez reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
USS Gonzalez (DDG 66)
Gonzalez 116kUSS Gonzalez (DDG-66) poster courtesy of Lockheed Martin.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 187k"The Wall" at the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. showing the name of Alfredo Gonzalez.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 82kThe Launching Program for USS Gonzalez DDG-66, held at Bath Iron Works Corporation, Bath, ME on 18 February 1995.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 101kUSS Gonzalez (DDG 66) underway at high speed during the builder's sea trials, May 3 1996. U.S. Navy Photo.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 154kUSS Gonzalez (DDG 66) underway at high speed during the builder's sea trials, May 3 1996. U.S. Navy Photo.Robert Hurst/Tom Langford
Gonzalez 72kDN-SC-98-00525, N1601RS10/96001. An aerial port quarter view of the guided missile destroyer USS GONZALEZ (DDG-66) being maneuvered into a Norfolk docking slip by two commercial tugboats. Photo by Robert Sitar, October 1 1996.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 86kProgram for the Commissioning Ceremony for the USS Gonzalez DDG-66. The event was held at Ingleside, Texas on Saturday, 12 October 1996.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 176kUSS Gonzalez DDG-66 commissioning ceremony at NavSta Ingleside,TX 12 Oct 1996, Gonzales is in the center of the picture.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 74kPortsmouth VA, July 24, 1998.Marc Piché
Gonzalez 69kThe aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and the guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) conduct an emergency break away drill during underway replenishment operations off the coast of Virginia with the Military Sealift Command oiler USNS Laramie (T-AO 203), Nov. 8, 1998. Enterprise is currently on a scheduled six-month deployment to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Apprentice William R. Crossly. [981108-N-0063C-001] Nov. 8, 1998.Fred Weiss
Gonzalez 41kUSS Gonzalez DDG 66 in Gibraltar on 10th January 1999.© Daniel Ferro
Gonzalez 61k990331-N-1556A-001. 31 March 1999, Adriatic Sea, a "Tomahawk" cruise missile launches from the aft missile deck of the USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), in the early morning hours. The guided-missile destroyer GONZALEZ is participating in day eight of NATO Operation Allied Force. U.S. Navy Photo by PH3 Renso Amariz.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 56kAboard USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) Apr. 3, 1999, in the early morning hours somewhere in the Adriatic Sea, a "Tomahawk" cruise missile launches from the forward missile deck aboard the U.S. Navy destroyer USS Gonzalez, headed for targets in Yugoslavia. Navy Photo by Photographers Mate 3rd Class Renso Amariz.Fred Weiss
Gonzalez 75k990404-N-1556A-001. 4 April 1999, Adriatic Sea, the super structure of the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) becomes visible in the pitch black early morning hours, as a "Tomahawk" cruise missile launches from the aft missile Vertical Launch System (VLS). GONZALEZ is currently forward deployed in the Adriatic Sea to support NATO Operation Allied Force. Military Planners stepped up the bombing campaign to include targets in the heart of the Serbian capital of Belgrade. U.S. Navy Photo by PH3 Renso Amariz.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 54k990404-N-1556A-002. 4 April 1999, Adriatic Sea, in a split second flash of fire and smoke, a "Tomahawk" cruise missile starts its launch from the forward Vertical Launch System (VLS) missile deck of the USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). GONZALEZ is currently forward deployed in the Adriatic Sea to support NATO Operation Allied Force. U.S. Navy Photo by PH3 Renso Amariz.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 117k990501-N-5906L-004. At sea aboard USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), May 1 1999, Fireman Jose Oregon from Houston, TX, closes a section of the ship firemain from the main control board on board the USS Gonzalez. Gonzalez is in the Adriatic Sea in support of Operation Allied Force. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Todd Linard.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 61kAt sea aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) June 3 1999, the fueling masts of the oiler USS Monogahela (AO 178) frame the destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Shawn M. Boyer.Fred Weiss
Gonzalez 69k990608-N-8493H-001. 8 June 1999, an SH-60F Seahawk attached to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Three (HS 3), from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) conducts deck landing qualifications (DLQ) aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). The USS Theodore Roosevelt Battle Group and Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW 8) are operating in the Adriatic Sea in support of the NATO led Operation Allied Force. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Steven Harbour.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 46kPortsmouth, England April 2000.Marc Piché
Gonzalez 31kPortsmouth, England April 19, 2000.Marc Piché
Gonzalez 81kPortsmouth, England April 19, 2000.Marc Piché
Gonzalez 211kToulon, May 21 2001.Carlo Martinelli
Gonzalez 69kSeptember 3 2003, Underway in the Atlantic Ocean the guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) conducts work-ups before an upcoming six-month deployment. Gonzalez is part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. U.S. Navy photo.Steven A. Cardali
Gonzalez 66kSeptember 5 2003, left to right, USS Thorn (DD 988), USS Cole (DDG 67), and USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), members of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, perform divisional tactics while underway in the Atlantic Ocean. U.S. Navy photo.Fred Weiss
Gonzalez 96k030905-N-5471P-005 Atlantic Ocean, September 5 2003, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group ships, USS Thorn (DD 988), USS Cole (DDG 67), and the USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), perform divisional tactics while underway in the Atlantic Ocean. The guided missile destroyers are conducting work-ups before an upcoming six-month deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Aaron Peterson.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 69k030906-N-5471P-003. Atlantic Ocean, 6 September 2003, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) underway in the Atlantic, during a work-up exercise before the ships scheduled deployment. Gonzalez is assigned to the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. James Stavridis. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Aaron Peterson. Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 97k031215-N-2716P-062. Bar, Serbia and Montenegro, 15 December 2003, a tug boat leads the U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) into port, marking the first visit by a U.S. Navy ship since the establishment of the Union of Serbia and Montenegro in February this 2003. The visit underscores the United States' commitment to Serbia and Montenegro's progress toward membership in the European community of nations as a free, democratic country. The visit also recognizes the established cooperation between the United States and Serbia and Montenegro in the effort to foster future support with the ongoing international war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Paul J. Phelps.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 99k031215-N-2716P-094. Bar, Serbia and Montenegro, 15 December 2003, a tug assists the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) to the pier, for a port visit. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class Paul J. Phelps.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 91k040120-N-0780F-012. Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, 20 January 2004, USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) moored at the Marathi NATO pier facility during a brief port visit at Souday Bay. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 68k040422-N-5821W-008. Mediterranean Sea, 22 April 2004, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) steaming during exercise Clever Sentinel 2004. The exercise is a multilateral maritime interdiction training exercise led by Italy in the Med. The exercise was part of the U.S. launched Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI), a collaborative effort to take active measures against trafficking in WMD, their delivery systems and related materials to and from states and non-state actors of proliferation concern around the world. Five nations, including the U.S., provided assets for the exercise and several nations sent observers to the exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 3rd Class Stephen P. Weaver.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 146k050404-N-3557N-080. Atlantic Ocean, April 4 2005, a Sailor assigned to the Air Department moves to a safe location after chocking the wheels of an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez, assigned to the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Expeditionary Strike Group, is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of the Global War on Terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Christopher J. Newsome.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 111k050422-N-7365V-081. Suez Canal, 22 April 2005, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Suez Canal. Gonzalez is assigned to the USS Kearsarge Expeditionary Strike Group on a scheduled deployment in support of the Global War on Terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Apprentice Dennard Vinson.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 98k050706-N-0401E-004. Mombasa, Kenya, 6 July 2005, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) pulls into the port of Mombasa, Kenya for an overnight port call. Gonzalez is currently deployed to the Fifth Fleet area of responsibility as part of the USS Kearsarge Expeditionary Strike Group and is participating in coalition maritime security operations (MSO). MSO set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as an avenue of attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material. U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 1st Class Wes Eplen.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 98kMombasa, Kenya July 6 2005, a rainbow arches over the guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) as it pulls into the Port of Mombasa, Kenya for an overnight port call. The visit marks the first time a U.S. Naval ship has visited Mombasa since 1999.Fred Weiss
Gonzalez 94k051220-N-0685C-004. Persian Gulf, 20 December 2005, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) breaks away after performing plane guard duty for the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Roosevelt and embarked Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8) are underway on a regularly scheduled deployment conducting maritime security operations. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Javier Capella.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 89k060202-N-3904I-024. Persian Gulf, 2 February 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Persian Gulf, after having conducted small boat attack training. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Dusan M. Ilic.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 64kTwo views of the Gonzalez in Rhodes, Greece harbor on July 11 2006.Frank Berghuis
Gonzalez 80kAs above.Frank Berghuis
Gonzalez 109k060717-N-0780F-002. Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, 17 July 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) gets underway following a brief port visit to Souda Bay, Crete. Gonzalez has been assigned escort duties in support of the evacuation of U.S. citizens out of Lebanon. At the request of the U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon and at the direction of the Secretary of Defense, the United States Central Command and U.S. Marines are assisting with the authorized departure of U.S. citizens from Lebanon. U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 71k060717-N-0780F-001. Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, 17 July 2006, a great stern view of the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) departing Souda Bay, Crete following a brief port. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 100k060817-N-5681S-050. Norfolk, Va., 17 August 2006, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), mooring at Naval Station Norfolk, as family and friends look on. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Michael Starkey.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 118k060817-N-7653W-082. Norfolk, Va., Aug. 17 2006, family and friends anxiously await the arrival of the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), upon her return to Naval Station Norfolk. Gonzalez has been deployed from her homeport for 18 months, while participating in the Atlantic Fleet's "Sea Swap" initiative. Under Sea Swap ships remain deployed while crews are rotated every six-months, increasing the forward presence and on-station time of the fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Justan K. Williams.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 127k080518-N-3202K-001. Mediterranean Sea, May 18 2008, the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) meet in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Hue City is returning to homeport from a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf and Gonzalez is on a scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 152k080518-N-3202K-005. Mediterranean Sea, May 18 2008, the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) meet in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Hue City is returning to homeport from a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf and Gonzalez is on a scheduled six-month deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo. Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 165k080606-N-0780F-001. Souda Bay, Crete, June 6 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) arrives in Souda harbor for a routine port visit. Gonzalez is on a scheduled six-month deployment assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group (SNMG2) as the Navy representative to the NATO Response Force. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 101k080606-N-0780F-002. Souda Bay, Crete, June 6 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) arrives in Souda harbor for a routine port visit, as tugs assist her to a berth. Gonzalez is on a scheduled six-month deployment assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group (SNMG2) as the Navy representative to the NATO Response Force. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 145k080725-N-0780F-001. Souda Bay, Crete, July 25 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) arrives in Souda Harbor for a routine port visit. Gonzalez is on a scheduled six-month deployment and assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group (SNMG) 2 as the U.S. Navy representative to the NATO Response Force. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 143k080725-N-0780F-002. Souda Bay, Crete, July 25 2008, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) arrives in Souda Harbor for a routine port visit. Gonzalez has a crew size of 340 and is homeported in Norfolk, Va. and is on a scheduled six-month deployment and assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group (SNMG) 2 as the U.S. Navy representative to the NATO Response Force. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 100k080725-N-0780F-004. Souda Bay, Crete, July 25 2008, a Gunners Mate mans a topside 50-caliber machine gun security post as the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) arrives for a routine port visit at Souda. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 143k080818-N-2838W-142. Norfolk, Va., August 18 2008, sailors assigned to the guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) man the rails while wishing a happy birthday to Dolia Gonzalez, the mother of Marine Corps Sgt. Alfredo Gonzalez, the vessel's namesake. Gonzalez returned from a six-month deployment serving as the Air Defense Commander for Standing NATO Maritime Group Two. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Wyscaver.Robert M. Cieri
Gonzalez 141k080818-N-1713L-019. Norfolk, Va., August 18 2008, Commander, U.S. Second Fleet Vice Adm. Mel Williams Jr., greets Cmdr. Brian Fort, commanding officer, USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). The Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer Gonzalez and the Oliver Hazard Perry class guided missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) returned Aug. 18, after a 6-month deployment in the 6th Fleet area of operation. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Lolita Lewis.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 212kU.S. Navy Cmdr. Brian Fort, right, commanding officer of the guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), presents Dolia Gonzalez with a painting of her son, Medal of Honor recipient and namesake of the ship U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Alfredo Gonzalez, before turning command of the ship over to Cmdr. Lynn Acheson at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., Aug. 14, 2009. The crew of Gonzalez commissioned the painting as a gift for Dolia Gonzalez in honor of her upcoming 80th birthday. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michelle Lucht. 090814-N-2645L-065.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 142k081016-N-1831S-025. Norfolk, Va., October 16 2008, Cryptologic Technician Technical 2nd class Marie E. Shirk calls in a small watercraft approaching the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is participating in the testing of the Citadel Protect '08 Antiterrorism ashore and afloat exercise. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Ash Severe.Bill Gonyo
Gonzalez 156kTaking part in OPSAIL at Norfolk on June 8 2012.Chris McKnight
Gonzalez 51kAs above.Chris McKnight
Gonzalez 149kAs above.Chris McKnight
Gonzalez 124kAs above.Chris McKnight
Gonzalez 222kJuly 26 2013 at Ponta Delgada, the Azores.Carlos Manuel Estrela
Gonzalez   Gonzalez   Gonzalez
USS Bainbridge (DDG-96) at Norfolk, VA on May 24 2014. In some of the photos you can see USS Gonzalez (DDG-66) in the background also undergoing maintenance.		Cody Z. Shaffer
Gonzalez 131kNorfolk Naval Station, January 30 2015.S. Dale Hargrave
Gonzalez 159k151116-N-VE959-448. Atlantic Ocean, November 16 2015, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Atlantic Ocean. Gonzalez is deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class P. Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 141k151120-N-VE959-076. Atlantic Ocean, November 20 2015, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Atlantic Ocean. Gonzalez is deployed with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class P. Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 182k151130-N-VE959-236. Mediterranean Sea, November 30 2015, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) undergoes a counter measure wash down. Gonzalez, part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class P. Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez   Gonzalez   Gonzalez   Gonzalez
December 4 2015, USS Gonzalez (DDG-66) arrived at port of Piraeus, Greece for a port visit.		George Haralampides
Gonzalez 133k151211-N-VE959-407. Mediterranean Sea, December 11 2015, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG-66) participates in a passing exercise with Turkish Navy ship TCG Gokceada (F-494). Gonzalez, part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class P. Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 175k160111-N-VE959-204. Mediterranean Sea. January 11 2016, Cmdr. Stefan Walch, commanding officer, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), and Cmdr. Les Sobol, executive officer, oversee a replenishment-at-sea with fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195). Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, conducting naval operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 252k160121-N-VE959-238. Indian Ocean, January 21 2016, sailors guide cargo aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) during a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4). Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 92k160126-N-VE959-026. Indian Ocean, January 26 2016, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Indian Ocean. Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 145k160130-N-VE959-013. Indian Ocean, January 30 2016, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Indian Ocean. Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 223k160205-N-VE959-219. Indian Ocean, February 5 2016, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) conducts a live-fire exercise using a MK 45 5-inch gun. Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 76k160301-N-VE959-030. Arabian Gulf, March 1 2016, the Guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) conducts a live-fire exercise using a MK 45 5-inch gun. Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 127k160424-N-VE959-164. Gulf of Aden, April 24 2016, members of the visit, board, search, and seizure team operate a rigid-hull inflatable boat alongside guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 143k160501-N-VE959-023. Gulf of Aden, May 1 2016, members of the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team operate a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) alongside guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez, deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 131k160508-N-VE959-020. Gulf of Aden, May 8 2016, Quartermaster Seaman Jeremy Guadalupe plots a track in the pilothouse of guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 193k160514-N-VE959-047. Gulf of Aden, May 14 2016, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Gulf of Aden. Gonzalez is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 106k160517-N-VE959-411. Gulf of Aden, May 17 2016, members of the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team operate a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) alongside guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 106k160517-N-VE959-411. Gulf of Aden, May 17 2016, members of the visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team operate a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) alongside guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 116k160522-N-VE959-109. Gulf of Aden, May 22 2016, a member of the visit, board, search and seizure team rides in a rigid-hull inflatable boat alongside guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66). Gonzalez is currently operating with the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 160k160601-N-VE959-004. Gulf of Aden, June 1 2016, guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) transits the Gulf of Aden. Gonzalez is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 156k160704-N-VE959-240. Atlantic Ocean, July 4 2016, the guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) Mark 45 5-inch lightweight gun during a live-fire gunnery exercise. Gonzalez, part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is currently on an 8-month deployment to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Pasquale Sena.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 204k160912-N-RI307-020. Halifax, Nova Scotia, September 12 2016, guided missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) passes beneath the McDonald Bridge during a passing exercise to begin the at-sea phase of Exercise Cutlass Fury 2016. Hosted by Maritime Forces Atlantic and executed by Canadian Fleet Atlantic, Cutlass Fury16 is a combined, joint, maritime exercise designed to promote and enhance regional cooperation of Maritime partners with an interest in Atlantic Security off the east coast of North America. U.S. Navy Photo by Lt. Cmdr. Candice Tresch.Ron Reeves
Gonzalez 48kShip's patch.Mike Smolinski
USS GONZALEZ DDG-66 History
View This Vessel's Command Operations Report entry
located at the Naval History & Heritage Command website
[This ship was built too late to be covered by the DANFS project]
Commanding Officers
01CDR Frederick Donald Allard, Jr. 1 12 October 1996 - 21 November 1996
02CDR Daniel Patrick Holloway (USNA 1978)21 November 1996 - 10 July 1998
03CDR Joseph William Murphy (USNA 1981)10 July 1998 - 14 January 2000
04CDR Patrick Edward O'Rourke 14 January 2000 - 22 May 2001
05CDR Andrew Alan King 22 May 2001 - 13 December 2002
06CDR Karl Joseph Van Deusen 13 December 2002 - 28 May 2004
07CDR Robert Daniel Randall, Jr. 2 28 May 2004 - 22 October 2004
08CDR Jeffrey Thomas Griffin 3 22 October 2004 - 20 September 2005
09CDR Jack Sherm Noel II (USNA 1985) 4 20 September 2005 - 21 February 2006
10CDR Robert Daniel Randall, Jr. 5 21 February 2006 - 18 August 2006
11CDR Robert Alistair Borchert 18 August 2006 - 19 February 2008
12CDR Brian Patrick Fort 19 February 2008 - 19 August 2009
13CDR Lynn Acheson 19 August 2009 - 25 February 2011
14CDR Steven Sooup Lee (USNA 1993) 25 February 2011 - 03 August 2012
15CDR Christopher Howard Inskeep (USNA 1995) 03 August 2012 - 21 February 2014
16CDR William Kyle Gantt, Jr. (USNA 1997) 21 February 2014 - 17 July 2015
17CDR Stefan L. Walch 17 July 2015 - 13 January 2017
18CDR Leslie Daniel Sobol 13 January 2017 - 15 June 2018
19CDR Christopher J. Schwarz 15 June 2018 - 08 November 2019
20CDR Ray A. Glenn 08 November 2019 - 25 May 2021
21CDR Timothy Keith Battles 25 May 2021 - 28 October 2022
22CDR Erik Steven Reynolds (USNA 2005) 28 October 2022 - 28 December 2023
23CDR Katrina Lynn Stegner 28 December 2023 - present
1. Relieved of command after running command aground off St. Maarten, 12 November 1996.
2. Sea swap with crew of USS Laboon (DDG 58).
3. Sea swap with crew of USS Stout (DDG 55).
4. Sea swap with crew of USS Laboon (DDG 58).
5. Sea swap with DDG Crew Lima.

Courtesy Wolfgang Hechler and Ron Reeves
Additional Resources and Web Sites of Interest
USS Gonzalez DDG-66 Website
Tin Can Sailors Website
Destroyer History Foundation
Official U.S.Navy Destroyer Website

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Last Updated 12 July 2024