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USS Howard Set To Return Thursday After 7-Month Deployment

Guided missile destroyer USS Howard prepares for a scheduled replenishment at sea in the South China Sea, Aug. 29, 2004.
U.S. Navy
Guided missile destroyer USS Howard prepares for a scheduled replenishment at sea in the South China Sea, Aug. 29, 2004.

The guided-missile destroyer USS Howard is scheduled to return Thursday to its San Diego home port from a seven-month deployment, the Navy announced Tuesday.

The vessel and its crew of 300 took part in exercises off the Republic of Korea, served with the aircraft carrier USS George Washington, conducted anti-submarine operations and what the Navy calls "theater security cooperation events."

The deployment included a four-day visit to Manila in the Philippines.

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"Howard represented the nation in the Seventh Fleet during exercises and operations while strengthening relationships with our allies and regional partners," said Cmdr. John Fay, the commanding officer. "It's satisfying to think of the successes we enjoyed and great to return home to family and friends."

The destroyer is named in honor of Marine Corps 1st Sgt. Jimmie E. Howard, a combat veteran of both Korea and Vietnam who was awarded the Medal of Honor, Silver Star and three Purple Hearts during his 27 years of service.