The guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) departed Naval Station Norfolk, Jan. 25, on a regularly-scheduled deployment to conduct maritime security operations.

The ship, and its roughly 300 Sailors, is trained and ready to conduct a wide range of tasks, to include ballistic missile defense.

“The Silent Warriors of McFaul are strong, focused, resilient and self-sufficient; which is critical as we sail independently,” said Cmdr. Janet Days, McFaul’s commanding officer. “I am exceptionally proud to lead this team of navy professionals and rest assured, when called upon, McFaul will be ready!”

Excelling during a challenging training cycle, designed to test the crew’s knowledge and skills, McFaul will continue to train and keep their skills and knowledge sharp. USS McFaul was commissioned April 25, 1998. The ship is named for Chief Petty Officer Donald L. McFaul, from Orange County, California, who was an engineman and Navy SEAL. Demonstrating the highest level of valor and leadership, he was killed during Operation Just Cause at Paitilla Airfield, Republic of Panama. The Arleigh Burke class ship is the first ship in the Navy to be named after a chief petty officer.