The Littoral Combat Ship USS Montgomery (LCS-8) arrived at its new homeport in San Diego following a dealy due to engine problems, getting hit by a tug boat and colliding with a lock in the Panama Canal, the service announced last week.
“I couldn’t be more proud of my crew as they’ve conquered every obstacle in their way and thrived,” said Cmdr. Daniel Straub, Montgomery’s commanding officer said in a statement. “From day one when we departed Mobile, the crew has performed superbly and sailed Montgomery with the expertise, cohesiveness, and precision of an experienced crew. They’ve proven that they can accomplish anything.”
The ships and its crew suffered a string of calamities between commissioning and its arrival in San Diego.
Days after its Sept. 10 commissioning in Mobile, Ala., Montgomery suffered two engine casualties in transit to San Diego, Calif. in that left the ship unable to use its port shaft and it transited back to Naval Station Mayport, Fla. for repairs.
In early October, Montgomery was hit by a tug leaving the base to avoid Hurricane Matthew causing damage to the ship’s hull.
Then during its delayed transit through the Panama Canal, while under command of a pilot, the ship collided with a wall of the lock.
Now the ship is anticipated to undergo a post delivery availability at its new homeport.
“I’m happy to welcome USS Montgomery to her new homeport of San Diego,” said Vice Adm. Tom Rowden, commander, Naval Surface Forces in a statement.
“Now that she is a part of our fleet, we’re going to make sure Montgomery is manned and trained right, and ensure the ship and crew are ready to do the nation’s bidding when called upon.”
