USS Princeton (CG-59)
The USS Princeton was a US Navy guided missile cruiser that hit a naval mine during the Gulf War in 1991.
Specifications

History
The USS Princeton (CG-59) was a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser commissioned in 1989. It was one of the most advanced warships in the US Navy, equipped with the Aegis combat system for air defense. During the Gulf War in 1991, the USS Princeton was part of the naval force in the Persian Gulf. On February 18, 1991, about three hours after the USS Tripoli hit a mine, the USS Princeton also struck an Iraqi naval mine. The mine caused serious damage to the ship's hull and propulsion system. Despite the damage, the crew kept the ship operational and it was able to move under its own power. The ship was later repaired and returned to service. The USS Princeton continued to serve in the US Navy for many years, including deployments to the Western Pacific and Middle East. The ship was decommissioned in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Combat Medals & Awards

Air Force Commendation Medal
A mid-level military award honoring airmen for meritorious achievement, bravery, or outstanding service.

Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
A high military award given for exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.

Air Medal
A military decoration awarded for single acts of heroism or meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight.

Army Commendation Medal
A decoration awarded to soldiers for heroism, meritorious achievement, or exemplary service in the United States Army.

Bronze Star
A United States military decoration awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement in a combat zone.

Distinguished Flying Cross
A United States military decoration awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement in aerial flight.

Distinguished Service Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Army.

Medal of Freedom
This foreign award from the United States honored civilians and allied service members who helped defeat enemy forces during wartime.

Medal of Honor
The highest military decoration of the United States, awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.

Navy Cross
The second highest military decoration for valor awarded to members of the United States Navy and Marine Corps.

Navy Distinguished Service Medal
A major naval decoration honoring exceptionally meritorious service to the government in duties of great responsibility.

Purple Heart
A United States military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the armed forces.

Silver Star
The third highest military decoration for valor in the United States Armed Forces.
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