In the waters where the vast expanse of the ocean meets the shores of history, the USS Somerset (LPD 25) carried more than just Marines and equipment—she carried the legacy of a nation’s resolve. Commissioned in 2014, the Somerset was an amphibious transport dock, a vital component of the U.S. Navy’s ability to project power, provide humanitarian aid, and respond swiftly to crises. She was a ship of versatility, built to support amphibious assaults, transport personnel, and deploy crucial resources wherever they were needed most.
But the Somerset's story is about more than the steel and systems that made her capable—it is also about the spirit of the ship and the sailors who served aboard her. Named in honor of the passengers and crew who perished aboard United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001, the Somerset carried with her a profound sense of duty, resilience, and honor. She was more than a warship; she was a living tribute to the memory of those who gave their lives that fateful day, a symbol of American strength in the face of unimaginable loss.
The Somerset was a lifeline in times of crisis. From the shores of Haiti following the devastating 2010 earthquake, to humanitarian missions in the Pacific, the Somerset stood ready to respond, bringing aid and comfort where it was needed most. Whether carrying Marines into battle or providing relief in the wake of disaster, the ship’s crew embodied the values of courage, adaptability, and selflessness.
Decommissioned in 2023, the USS Somerset’s legacy endures. Her service was not just a testament to military strength, but to the strength of the human spirit. Through every mission, every wave, and every challenge, the Somerset carried forward the memory of September 11th, her story forever intertwined with the resolve and unity that define the American ideal.
