The USS Anzio (CG 68) stands as a symbol of resilience and honor, named after the pivotal Battle of Anzio in Italy during World War II. This battle, fought in 1944, marked a turning point in the Allied campaign, demonstrating the courage and perseverance of the soldiers who fought on Italian soil. Just as the battle was a significant moment in history, the Anzio has had its own remarkable journey.
Commissioned in 1992 at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, the Anzio was a proud member of the Ticonderoga class of guided missile cruisers, equipped with advanced Aegis missile systems. With her primary mission to provide air defense and strike capabilities, the Anzio was instrumental in safeguarding U.S. and allied forces around the world.
For many years, the Anzio called Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, her homeport, where she was a mainstay of the U.S. Navy’s operational readiness. The ship’s motto, Stand and Fight, was more than a rallying cry—it was a reflection of the unwavering determination and commitment of her crew, ready to face any challenge.
After decades of service, the Anzio was decommissioned in September 2022. Her decommissioning marked the end of an era for a ship that had served in numerous operations and deployments, demonstrating the Navy’s capability and resolve across the globe. The ship was laid up at the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility (NISMF) in Philadelphia, where it remains, awaiting its next chapter.
Though the Anzio may no longer sail the seas, her legacy lives on. Her story is a testament to the brave men and women who served aboard her and the battles fought in history that continue to inspire the Navy today.
