In the fleet of the United States Navy, few ships can match the legacy of the USS Kidd (DDG-100). Commissioned in 2007, this Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer was built to face the complexities of modern warfare—equipped with advanced radar systems, powerful missile systems, and an unwavering commitment to defending American interests at sea. But beyond its impressive arsenal, the Kidd’s legacy is shaped by the men and women who served aboard her, those who carried out missions that spanned from the challenges of global conflict to the quiet, steadfast role of peacekeeping.
Named after Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, who lost his life during the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Kidd carried the memory of a fallen hero. The ship’s name was a constant reminder of the sacrifice made by those who came before, and the duty to continue safeguarding the freedoms they fought for. The Kidd was a vessel of vigilance—always ready, always alert to the ever-changing dynamics of global security.
Whether patrolling the waters of the Persian Gulf or participating in humanitarian missions in Southeast Asia, the USS Kidd was a powerful force on the world stage. With her Aegis Combat System and ballistic missile defense capabilities, the ship was an essential part of the Navy’s ability to project strength and maintain security in the face of rising threats.
But the Kidd was more than a warship; she was a home to her crew, who served through long deployments and the challenges of life at sea. The USS Kidd is a reminder that the work of the Navy is never finished, and the spirit of service endures, no matter where the seas take us.
