Guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) departed Naval Station Norfolk for a regularly-scheduled deployment to conduct maritime operations in the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation April 17.

The Oscar Austin crew spent the past year successfully completing a demanding maintenance phase and training cycle in preparation for its upcoming deployment.

"Oscar Austin Sailors have worked tirelessly over the past twelve months for deployment," said Cmdr. Janice G. Smith, Oscar Austin's commanding officer. "The effort demonstrated over the last year, during basic and advanced phases of training, is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the entire crew. I am confident Oscar Austin is ready to support maritime operations across the globe."

Oscar Austin is deploying in support of maritime security operations and will operate in international waters across the globe, alongside other maritime forces.

The ship was commissioned August 1, 2000, and was named after Medal of Honor recipient, Pfc. Oscar P. Austin, United States Marine Corps. Austin earned the Medal of Honor in Vietnam for his actions during a fierce firefight with North Vietnamese forces.

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