USS BOXER
LHD 4
  
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The Boxer (LHD 4) is the sixth Wasp-class amphibious assault ship of the United States Navy. She is the sixth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name for a British ship captured by the Americans during the War of 1812. The ship's keel was authenticated on April 8, 1991.

August 28, 1993 The Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Boxer was christened during a ceremony at Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Mrs. Becky Miller served as sponsor of the ship. Capt. Robert E. Annis is the prospective commanding officer.

November 21, 1994 After post-launch outfitting and testing, Ingalls delivered the PCU Boxer to the U.S. Navy.

USS Boxer was commissioned on February 11, 1995, and departed on Feb. 20 for sea trials and a voyage to its homeport in San Diego, Calif.

February 26, The Boxer anchored in Cristobal Harbor, Panama, before commencing Panama Canal transit. Port visit to Mazatlan, Mexico, from March 8-11.

March 15, USS Boxer arrived in its homeport of Naval Station San Diego after a four-week transit from Pascagoula, Mississippi; Commenced a two-month shipyard availability on March 26.

June 19, LHD 4 departed San Diego for a 25-day underway to conduct Combat Systems Ship qualification Testing (CSSQT); Conducted Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART) I from July 31- Aug. 4; Underway for CART II from Aug. 7-11; Underway for a Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) I on Sept. 1.

September 19, USS Boxer conducted its first AV-8B flight operations off the coast of southern California; Returned home on Sept. 2?.

January 24, 1996 USS Boxer departed homeport for sea trials after a three-week restricted availability.

March 12, The Boxer entered the Long Beach Naval Shipyard for a two-month Post Shakedown Availability (PSA); Underway for a Dependent's Day Cruise, en route to Naval Station San Diego, on May 10; Underway for TSTA II from May 13- June 7; Underway for TSTA III/FEP from July 8-19; Anchored off Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, from July 26-2?.

August 23, The amphibious assault ship departed San Diego en route to Pearl Harbor for magneting deperming; Underway for Comprehensive Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) 96-24M, in the Hawaiian Op. Area, on Sept. 3.

October 2, Capt. James K. Moran relieved Capt. Robert E. Annis as CO of the Boxer.

October 10, USS Boxer departed homeport for the second phase of COMPTUEX; Inport San Francisco, Calif., for Fleet Week from Oct. 12-1?; Underway for COMPTUEX 96-18M from Nov. 6-15.

March 24, 1997 USS Boxer departed Naval Station San Diego for its maiden deployment.

September 24, The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and the 15th MEU returned home after a six-month deployment to the western Pacific, Red Sea, Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean. The ship traveled more than 30,000 miles and visited 11 ports in nine countries.

December 5, 1998 USS Boxer ARG, along with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), departed San Diego for its second deployment in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet AoR.

December 30, LHD 4 anchored in Victoria Harbour for a three-day liberty port visit to Hong Kong; Inport Singapore from January 6-11.

January 13, 1999 The Boxer anchored off the coast of Phuket for a five-day liberty port visit; Departed Thailand earlier than scheduled, in support of Non-Combatant Evacuation (NEO) contingency operations during the Ethiopia/Eritrea conflict.

March 1, The amphibious assault ship anchored off the coast of Manama, Bahrain, for a one-day port call; Anchored off Bahrain again from March 4-7; Inport Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., from March 12-16; Anchored off Kuwait City, Kuwait, for standdown from March 27- April 3.

April 9, USS Boxer pulled into Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a week-long liberty visit to Dubai; Anchored off Bali, Indonesia, from April 29- May 4; Inport Townsville, Australia, from May 11-16.

June 5, USS Boxer returned to San Diego after a week-long Tiger Cruise from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, completing the six-month deployment.

August 19, The Boxer commenced a nine-week Preventive Maintenance Availability (PMA) while moored at Naval Station San Diego.

September 24, Capt. Stephen D. Doyle relieved Capt. Robert C. Massey as commanding officer of the Boxer.

October 18, The Boxer departed homeport for a four-day underway to conduct All Comers At Sea Training (ACAT); Underway for CART II from Nov. 16-19.

January 11, 2000 USS Boxer depated homeport for a 10-day Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA) A; Underway for TSTA B from Jan. 19-28 and Feb. 14-18; Underway for TSTA II from March ?-10.

From April 3-14, the Boxer was underway for Amphibious Specialty Training (AST); Underway for Amphibious Orientation Training (AOT) from May 22-25.

May 30, USS Boxer departed Naval Station San Diego to participate in a biennial multi-national exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2000, in the Hawaiian Op. Area; Returned home on July 13.

October 5, USS Boxer pulled into San Francisco, Calif., for a six-day port visit to participate in annual Fleet Week celebration; Returned home on Oct. 1?; Underway for INSURV inspection on Oct. 17; Underway for COMPTUEX from Oct. 30- Nov. 9; Underway for ammo onload from Nov. 13-17.

December 2, The Boxer anchored off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, for a four-day port visit.

March 13, 2001 USS Boxer departed San Diego for a scheduled six-month deployment with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

May 26, Capt. Michael G. Hlywiak relieved Capt. Stephen D. Doyle as the 5th commanding officer of the USS Boxer.

November 25, The Boxer entered the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard in San Diego for a four-month Drydocking Phased Maintenance Availability (DPMA).

May 11, 2002 USS Boxer returned to homeport after a five-day underway of Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART) II; Underway again for AAV Ops. from May 15-17.

June 10, The amphibious assault ship departed San Diego for TSTA A; Port visit to Mazatlan, Mexico, from June 15-18; Conducted TSTA B from June 18- July 4; Underway for TSTA II from July 8-13.

From July 24- August 3, the Boxer participated in a Joint Forces Command Exercise Millennium Challenge, off the coast of southern California; Underway for Amphibious Orientation Training (AOT) from Aug. 19-24; Underway for TSTA II from Aug. 27- Sept. 7; Underway for TSTA III from Sept. 18-27.

September 25, Capt. Thomas D. Crowley relieved Capt. Michael G. Hlywiak as CO of the Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship, while underway in the SOCAL Op. Area.

October 12, USS Boxer arrived in San Francisco for a three-day port visit to participate in annual Fleet Week celebration.

In October, after a highy successful POTUS security operations, the Boxer conducted Underway Demonstration followed by the Final Evaluation Problem (FEP).

From Oct. 24-29, the amphibious assault ship participated in Medical Contingency Operation off the coast of Cabo San Lucas, Baja California, Mexico.

January 17, 2003 USS Boxer departed Naval Station San Diego, as part of the seven ships Amphibious Task Force (ATF) West, for a surge Middle East deployment.

From Feb. 24 through March 1, the Boxer offloaded Marines and equipment while anchored off Kuwait Naval Base.

April 1, U.S. Army Pfc. Jessica D. Lynch, captured by the Iraqis when her convoy was ambushed on March 23, was rescued from Saddam Hospital, An Nasiriyah. The daring operation by Task Force 20, including CH-46E Sea Knights from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 165, CH-53E Super Stallions and Navy SEALs, began at midnight, supported by Marines from Task Force Charlie, who staged a diversionary attack to draw away Iraqi irregulars.

On April 20, USS Boxer, along with USS Tarawa (LHA 1), USS Saipan (LHA 2), USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), USS Bataan (LHD 5) and USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), operated with 26 other ships of Task Force 51 in the northern Arabian Gulf, comprising the largest concentration of amphibious power since the Korean War.

April 27, LHD 4 pulled into Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a week-long liberty port visit to Dubai.

USS Boxer operated in the Arabian Gulf for the duration of Operation Iraqi Freedom conducting coalition air control and identification, and providing sea-based support to Marine aviation units and U.S. and coalition ships in the region. Crew members also participated in mine countermeasure and small boat operations.

June 20, The Boxer arrived in Sydney, Australia, for a four-day port call; Inport Townsville from June 28- July 1.

July 14, The amphibious assault ship pulled into Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, for a three-day port call to embark friends and family members for a Tiger Cruise.

July 26, USS Boxer returned to San Diego after more than a six-month combat deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Global War on Terrorism.

October 2, The Boxer departed homeport for a Friends and Family Day Cruise; Underway for ammo offload from Nov. 2-7; Inport San Francisco, Calif., from Nov. 13-16.

January 14, 2004 USS Boxer departed Naval Base San Diego in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 2 force rotation. As part of the OIF 2 FR, the "Golden Gator" is providing amphibious lift for a portion of the equipment and personnel from the I Marine Expeditionary Force stationed at Camp Pendleton, Calif., and 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif.

February 6, The amphibious assault ship moored at Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a brief port call.

From February 19-28, the Boxer offloaded more than 200 U.S. Marine personnel and their equipment onto Kuwait Naval Base, along with the 16 CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 466, 150 trucks with trailers, several aircraft towing vehicles and multiple large containers of ammunition.

March 1, USS Boxer moored at Quay 9 in Port of Jebel Ali, U.A.E., for a three-day liberty visit to Dubai; Inport Goa, India, from March 9-12; Moored at Changi Naval Base in Singapore from March 20-23.

March 30, The Boxer arrived in Naval Base Sasebo, Japan, for a five-day port call and to exchange two landing craft air cushion (LCAC) vehicles that had been brought from San Diego. Assault Craft Unit 5 took charge of the two Sasebo LCACs, for a transport back to Camp Pendleton, Calif., for a routine overhaul.

April 16, LHD 4 pulled into Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, for a four-day port visit and to embark several members of the Afloat Training Group, Pacific, to conduct the Command Assessment of Readiness and Training (CART).

April 29, USS Boxer returned to San Diego after completing three-and-a-half month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet Areas of Responsibility (AoR).

From June 7-11, the amphibious assault ship conducted deck landing qualifications and Type Training off the coast of southern California.

June 21, Capt. Thomas J. Culora relieved Capt. Thomas D. Crowley as CO of the "Golden Gator."

July 12, The Boxer departed homeport for a Tailored Ship's Training Availability (TSTA); Commenced a Planned Maintenance Availability (PMA), while moored pierside at Naval Base San Diego, on Sept. 15; Underway for a Shakedown Cruise from Dec. 6-7; Underway for a Friends and Family Day Cruise on Dec. 8; Underway for Type Training from Jan. 18-21; Underway for a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment on March 9.

April 29, 2005 USS Boxer departed San Diego for a scheduled western Pacific deployment.

May 17, LHD 4 arrived at Naval Station Sasebo, Japan, for a two-day port visit; Moored at Navy Pier in White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, from May 21-2?.

May 30, USS Boxer, along with the USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53), arrived in Darwin, Australia, for a scheduled port visit.

June 8, The Boxer arrived in Townsville, Australia, for a scheduled port visit before participating in a biannual joint exercise Talisman Saber 2005; Inport Townsville again from 26-2?.

July 5, USS Boxer moored at Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a two-day port call.

July 8, The amphibious assault ship moored in Port of Kuantan, Malaysia, for a four-day port visit before participating in a Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) exercise; Inport Kuantan again from July 15-19.

July 30, LHD 4 arrived in White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, to prepare for the third annual Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX) with the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Strike Group, U.S. Air Force 18th Wing, 5th Air Force and I Marine Air Wing.

August 15, The "Golden Gator" arrived in Sasebo, Japan, for a two-day port call after wrapping up the third annual Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX) on Aug. 13.

August 25, The Boxer pulled into Majuro, Marshall Islands, for a four-day port visit; Moored at Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, to embark "Tigers" from Sept. ?-7.

September 14, USS Boxer returned to San Diego after a four-and-a-half month deployment.

October 8, The Boxer pulled into San Francisco for a four-day port visit to participate in the annual Fleet Week celebration.

December 8, Capt. Bruce W. Nichols relieved Capt. Thomas J. Culora as the 8th CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.

December 12, LHD 4 departed homeport for three days of shipboard training and flight deck qualifications.

January 16, 2006 USS Boxer is currently underway off the coast of southern California as a test platform for the Unit Level Training and Assessment program. ULTRA is designed to test the ship's various training teams' capabilities and readiness.

June 6, The amphibious assault ship is currently underway off the coast of southern California for routine training; Underway for a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) from July 1?-28; Underway for a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) on Aug. 1?.

September 13, USS Boxer departed Naval Station San Diego for a scheduled deployment, with the 15th MEU, in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

September 23, LHD 4 ESG, along with USS Greenville (SSN 772), conducted Undersea Warfare Exercise (USWEX) in the waters around the Hawaiian Islands from Sept. 19-22. This was the fourth such USWEX that CTF 12 has coordinated so far this year. Expeditionary Strike Group Five, commanded by Rear Adm. Mark W. Balmert, pulled into Pearl Harbor on Sept. 22 to transfer command from Balmert to Capt. David Angood, commodore of Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5.

October 12, The Boxer moored at Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a scheduled port visit.

October 25, USS Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group and the Indian navy's western Fleet commenced exercise Malabar 2006, while underway off the southwest coast of India; Inport Mumbai, India, from Oct. 31- Nov. 3.

November 8, The Boxer ESG entered the U.S. Cental Command AoR in support of maritime security operations (MSO).

November 19, The amphibious assault ship anchored at Sitrah Anchorage for a two-day port visit to Manama, Bahrain; Inport Manama again from Dec. 30- Jan. 8.

January 28, 2007 USS Boxer moored at Quay 9 in Port of Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a five-day liberty visit to Dubai; Inport Manama again from Feb. 20-25.

April 14, The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed its return to the Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group, after conducting security operations in Iraq since mid-November. The first group arrived on Boxer on April 8. It took several more days to complete the return of nearly 2,000 Marines.

April 29, The Boxer pulled into Fremantle, Australia, for a four-day liberty port visit; Inport Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, from May 22-2?.

May 23, Capt. Matthew J. McCloskey relieved Capt. Bruce W. Nichols as CO of the LHD 4 during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship in Pearl Harbor.

May 31, USS Boxer returned to San Diego after a nearly nine-month extended deployment in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet AoR.

July 13, The amphibious assault ship recently departed homeport to offload ammunition off the coast of Camp Pendleton.

December 12, The Boxer returned to Naval Base San Diego after a two-day underway for sea trials, following a twelve-week Phased Maintenance Availability (PMA).

From January 10-16, 2008, USS Boxer was underway off the southern California coast preparing for its upcoming series of Unit Level Training Assessments (ULTRA) in February.

February 29, Rear Adm. Kevin M. Quinn relieved Vice Adm. Terrance T. Etnyre as a temporary Commander, Naval Surface Forces during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the Boxer.

March 13, The "Golden Gator" completed a six-day certifications for flight deck and well deck operations while underway off the coast of southern California.

April 28, USS Boxer, along with various embarked units and non-governmental organizations (NGO), departed homeport en route to Latin America nations in support of the Pacific Phase of Continuing Promise (CP) 2008.

May 6, The amphibious assault ship arrived in Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala, for a 12-day port visit.

May 19, LHD 4 pulled into Acajutla, El Salvador, for the second stop of Continuing Promise '08; Inport Callao, Peru, from June 7-?; Returned to San Diego on June 26.

September 13, Capt. Mark E. Cedrun relieved Capt. Matthew J. McCloskey as the 10th CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.

September 19, USS Boxer returned to homeport after a four-day underway in the SOCAL Op. Area, during which the crew conducted training and tested a new shipboard missile guidance system. The ship was fitted with a prototype electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) camera integrated into the missile director system to acquire and engage targets. The system is the first of its kind in the Navy and was used during the underway to successfully fire three RIM-7 NATO Sea Sparrow missiles.

October 16, The Boxer ESG completed their ten days Expeditionary Strike Group Integration (ESGINT) exercise, off the coast of southern California, in preparation for the upcoming deployment early next year. Marine Medium Helicopter (HMM) Squadron 163 (Reinforced), embarked aboard the Boxer, is among the first squadrons to operate the new Bell UH-1Y "Huey" helicopter.

December 1, LHD 4 departed homeport for a Certification Exercise (CERTEX) with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

January 9, 2009 USS Boxer departed San Diego for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific and Arabian Gulf.

February 19, The amphibious assault ship recently anchored off Phuket, Thailand, for a liberty port visit.

March 8, USS Boxer assumed the role as flagship for Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, after arriving in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AoR).

March 13, A fire broke out on the flight deck of USS Boxer at approximately 4:15 p.m., while refueling an AH-1W Super Cobra in the Gulf of Aden. Two Sailors sustained light injuries and are expected to make a full recovery within the week.

April 5, Rear Adm. Michelle Howard relieved Rear Adm. Terry McKnight as commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the Boxer. In 1999, taking the helm of USS Rushmore (LSD 47), Howard became the first African-American woman to command a U.S. Navy ship.

April 13, A 28-foot lifeboat from the U.S.-flagged container ship Maersk Alabama is hoisted aboard USS Boxer to be processed for evidence after the successful rescue of Capt. Richard Phillips. He was held captive by suspected Somali pirates in the lifeboat in the Indian Ocean for five days after a failed hijacking attempt off the Somali coast.

May 19, The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 13th MEU began a weeklong ARG/Marine Expeditionary Unit Exercise (MEUEX) in the Gulf of Aden and ashore at Camp Lemonier in Djibouti.

June 25, LHD 4 ARG anchored off the coast of Phuket for another liberty visit to Thailand; Moored at Naval Station Pearl Harbor from July 17-2?.

August 1, USS Boxer moored at Naval Base San Diego following a seven-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO).

January 22, 2010 Capt. Frank J. Michael relieved Capt. Mark E. Cedrun as CO of the Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship.

April 1, LHD 4 departed dry-dock at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) shipyard, following a four-month Drydocking Planned Maintenance Availability (DPMA).

June 10, The "Golden Gator" moored at Naval Base San Diego after underway sea trials off the coast of southern California; Underway again on July ?.

September 19, The amphibious assault ship is currently underway for a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment.

October 1, USS Boxer rendered assistance to sixteen passengers of a distressed boat found off the West Coast. The fiberglass motorboat had experienced engine problems on the night of Sept. 30 and had been stranded for 14 hours until lookouts aboard the Boxer spotted it.

October 16, LHD 4 is currently underway for Amphibious Squadron (Phibron)/Marine Expeditionary Unit Integration Training (PMINT), with the 13th MEU; Underway for a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) on Nov. 4; Underway for a Certification Exercise (CERTEX) on Dec. ?; Underway for routine training on Feb. 1?.

February 22, 2011 USS Boxer ARG departed Naval Base San Diego for a scheduled Middle East deployment.

March 1, LHD 4 pulled into Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for a routine port call; Entered the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AoR) on March 24; Inport Salalah, Oman, from March 31- April 3.

July 14, Capt. Kevin P. Flanagan relieved Capt. Frank J. Michael as CO of USS Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship, while underway in the Gulf of Aden.

July 29, Search operations for Cryptologic Technician (Interpretive) 2nd Class Matthew Bergman concluded at 6:22 p.m. local time, in the Gulf of Aden. He was reported missing July 26 after did not report for watch and a search of the ship failed to locate him.

August 22, The Boxer ARG anchored off the coast of Phuket, Thailand, for a three-day liberty port visit; Inport Hong Kong from Aug. 31- Sept. 4; Moored at Apra Harbor, Guam, from Sept. 9-1?.

September 20, The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group pulled into Pearl Harbor for a scheduled port visit to embark "Tigers."

September 30, USS Boxer returned to San Diego after a seven-month deployment.

December 14, The Defense Department has awarded General Dynamics NASSCO about $15 million to perform repairs and upgrades on the USS Boxer. The amphibious assault ship recently returned to homeport after conducting a post-deployment ammunition offload, off the coast of southern California. The work will be completed by May 2012.

January 11, 2012 The Boxer commenced a four-and-a-half month Planned Maintenance Availability (PMA).

July 19, Vice Adm. Thomas H. Copeman, III relieved Vice Adm. Richard W. Hunt as Commander, Naval Surface Forces (SURFOR) and Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (SURFPAC), during a change-of-command ceremony on board the LHD 4.

August 27, USS Boxer departed Naval Base San Diego for flight deck certification in the SOCAL Op. Area. Underway for sea trials and certification from Sept. 25-27; Underway again from Oct. 1-3 and on Oct. 9.

October 18, The Boxer conducted ammunition onload with the USS Makin Island (LHD 8) and Naval Weapons Station Fallbrook, Calif., while anchored off Camp Pendleton, from Oct. 15-17; Underway for flight deck certification on Oct. 29; Underway for routine training on Nov. 13 or earlier; Underway for ammo onload from Dec. 3-7.

January 11, 2013 Capt. John E. Gumbleton relieved Capt. Kevin P. Flanagan as the 13th CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship at sea.

February 4, The amphibious assault ship departed Naval Base San Diego to participate in exercise Iron Fist 2013 with elements from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), off the coast of southern California, through Feb. 15.

From March 19-20, USS Boxer was anchored off Camp Pendleton for ammo onload.

June 11, The Boxer ARG departed San Diego for a 17-day underway to conduct Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON)/Marine Expeditionary Unit Integration Training (PMINT), with the 13th MEU, embedded into a multinational amphibious exercise Dawn Blitz 2013, with the 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB), Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and Royal Canadian Navy ships.

July 8, LHD 4 departed Naval Base San Diego for an 11-day Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). Underway for CERTEX from July 26- Aug. 7.

August 23, USS Boxer departed homeport for a scheduled deployment. She is the first West Coast-based amphibious assault ship to deploy with MV-22 Osprey aircraft aboard.

August 29, The Boxer ARG arrived off the coast of Hawaii to participate in an amphibious training exercise, from Aug. 30- Sept. 1.

September 16, USS Boxer moored at Alava Pier in Subic Bay, Philippines, for a four-day port call before participating in at-sea phase of Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) 2014.

October 2, The amphibious assault ship moored at Berth 3/4, Changi Naval Base for a three-day port visit to Singapore. The ARG arrived in the Central Command AoR on Oct. 12.

October 24, LHD 4 commenced offload of Marines and equipment at Arta Beach, Djibouti, for a month-long sustainment training exercises with the French military.

October 31, The Boxer participated in a passing exercise (PASSEX) with the Royal Navy’s Response Force Task Group (RFTG) flagship HMS Illustrious (R 06), south of Salalah, Oman; Inport Salalah from Nov. 2-6; Entered the Arabian Gulf on Nov. 27.

December 14, USS Boxer departed Jebel Ali, U.A.E., after a week-long upkeep.

January 15, 2014 The Boxer moored at Khalifa Bin Salman Port, Bahrain, for a five-day port call in conjunction with Bahrain International Airshow.

February 8, USS Boxer moored at Aqaba Naval Base, Jordan, for a four-day port call to conduct agricultural counter-measure washdowns of all embarked equipment.

February 12, USS Boxer moored at Container Terminal in Port of Eilat, Israel, for a five-day port visit; Departed the Central Command (CENTCOM) Area of Operation (AoO) on March 11.

March 18, The amphibious assault ship moored at Berth 3/4, Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a three-day port call.

March 30, The Boxer ARG is currently participating in annual combined exercise Ssang Yong, off the coast of Pohang, with the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) ARG and the Republic of Korea (ROK) Flotilla Five.

April 15, LHD 4 moored at Berth K10-11 in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, for a two-day port call to embark friends and family members for a Tiger Cruise.

April 25, USS Boxer returned to Naval Base San Diego after an eight-month deployment in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet AoR.

June 2, General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO) was awarded a $20,7 million modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-13-C-4404) for the USS Boxer's Phased Maintenance Availability (PMA).

June 3, The Boxer is currently underway for ammo offload off the coast of Camp Pendleton, Calif.

July 2, Capt. Wayne R. Brown relieved Capt. John E. Gumbleton as the 14th CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship at Pier 13, Naval Base San Diego.

September 29, General Dynamics NASSCO was awarded a $36,2 million modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-13-C-4404) for the USS Boxer's PMA.

September 29, Rear Adm. Frank L. Ponds, Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3, relieved of his duty Capt. Wayne Brown as the results of a command investigation into Equal Opportunity concerns. Capt. Keith Moore, deputy commodore of PHIBRON 1, assumed temporary command of the LHD 4.

October 31, Capt. Martin L. Pompeo relieved Capt. Keith G. Moore as commanding officer of the USS Boxer.

February 23, 2015 The Boxer moved from Pier 13 to Pier 2 at Naval Base San Diego; Underway for sea trials and flight deck certification from March 18-26; Anchored south off Coronado from March 26-29; Anchored off Camp Pendleton for ammo onload from March 30- April 1; Returned home on April 3.

April 30, USS Boxer departed San Diego for well deck and flight deck certifications; Anchored off Coronado from May 3-4 and 8-10; Moored at Berth 5, Pier 8 on May 12; Underway for routine training from June 1-5.

June 5, Capt. Michael S. Ruth relieved Capt. Martin L. Pompeo as CO of the Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship at Pier 8.

July 23, LHD 4 departed homeport en route to Seattle, Wash., after a six-week Continuous Maintenance Availability (CMAV); Moored at Naval Station Everett from July 27-28.

July 28, USS Boxer moored at Pier 90 in Port of Seattle for a six-day visit to participate in annual Seafair Fleet Week celebration; Returned to San Diego on Aug. 7.

August 31, The Boxer departed Naval Base San Diego for an 11-day underway to participate in annual amphibious landing exercise Dawn Blitz, off the coast of Camp Pendleton, with the USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Somerset (LPD 25), USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), SS Curtis (T-AVB 4), USS Shoup (DDG 86), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110), JS Hyuga (DDH 181), JS Kunisaki (LST 4003), JS Ashigara (DDG 178), ARM Usumacinta (A412), ARM Revolucion (P164) and the 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB).

September 25, USS Boxer departed homeport for a week-long underway to participate in Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 1/Marine Expeditionary Unit Integration Training (PMINT), with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU); Underway for a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment on Oct. 6.

October 19, The Boxer ARG departed San Diego for an 18-day underway to participate in a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) and Task Group Exercise (TGEX) with the Royal Canadian Navy ships.

November 9, The amphibious assault ship departed homeport for a routine training in the SOCAL Op. Area; Anchored south off Coronado from Nov. 14-15; Moored at Berth 5, Pier 8 on Nov. 16; Underway for a Certification Exercise (CERTEX) from Dec. 3-16; Underway for a Sustainment Exercise (SUSTEX) and MISSILEX from Jan. 15-22.

February 12, 2016 USS Boxer departed Pier 8, Naval Base San Diego for a scheduled Middle East deployment.

February 19, The Boxer ARG arrived off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, for a sustainment training exercise at Bellows Training Area; Entered the U.S. 7th Fleet AoO on Feb. 27.

March 8, USS Boxer ARG joined the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7 and the Republic of Korea (ROK) Flotilla Five, for a photographic exercise (PHOTOEX) off the east coast of Korea, before participating in amphibious landing exercise Ssang Yong 2016, as part of the annual joint exercise Foal Eagle; Anchored off Pohang from March 10-14; Transited the Taiwan Strait southbound on March 20.

March 21, The Boxer anchored at Western Anchorage #2 in Victoria Harbour for a four-day liberty port visit to Hong Kong; Transited the Strait of Singapore on March 29; Entered the U.S. Central Command Area of Operations (AoO) on April 4.

April 10, LHD 4 commenced offload of Marines and equipment at Arta Beach, Djibouti, for sustainment training exercises with the French military; Transited the Strait of Hormuz northbound on June 5.

June 7, USS Boxer moored at Berth 13, Mina Salman Port in Manama, Bahrain, for a four-day liberty visit.

June 16, AV-8B Harriers, assigned to the "Black Sheep" of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214 Detachment, conducted their first combat missions in Iraq, in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

June 23, The Boxer moored at Berth 58, Quay 9 in Port of Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a week-long liberty visit to Dubai.

July 7, Capt. Patrick V. Foege relieved Capt. Keith G. Moore as Commander, Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) 1 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the USS Boxer, while underway in the Arabian Gulf.

July 15, USS Boxer departed Arabian Gulf after transiting the Strait of Hormuz southbound.

July 16, The Boxer moored at Berth 2 in Port of Sultan Qaboos for a four-day liberty visit to Muscat, Oman; Transited the Strait of Malacca southbound from July 29-30.

July 30, USS Boxer moored at Berth 3/4, Changi Naval Base in Singapore for a five-day liberty port visit; Participated in a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) with the HMAS Success (AOR 304) on Aug. 4.

August 9, USS Boxer moored at Sepanggar Naval Base, Malaysia, for a four-day port visit to Kota Kinabalu; Transited the Balabac Strait on Aug. 14; Entered the U.S. 3rd Fleet AoR on Aug. 25.

August 29, The amphibious assault ship moored at Wharf K10/K11 on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, for a four-day port visit and to embark friends and family members for a Tiger Cruise; Offload off Camp Pendleton, Calif., from Sept. 9-10.

September 12, USS Boxer moored at Berth 5, Pier 8 on Naval Base San Diego following a seven-month deployment.

October 19, LHD 4 departed homeport for burials at sea, amphibious operations with the 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion (AABN) and to offload ordnance at the NWS Fallbrook; Anchored off Camp Pendleton North from Oct. 24-26; Moored at Berth 5, Pier 8 on Oct. 27.

October 28, General Dynamics National Steel and Shipbuilding Co. (NASSCO) was awarded a $83 million modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-13-C-4404) for the Phased Maintenance Availability (PMA) of USS Boxer. Work is expected to be completed by October 2017.

December 8, Capt. Benjamin J. Allbritton relieved Capt. Michael S. Ruth as the 17th CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship at Pier 8.

December 13, USS Boxer moved "dead-stick" from Naval Base San Diego to Berth 2 at NASSCO shipyard.

October 4, 2017 The Boxer moved "dead-stick" from NASSCO shipyard to Berth 6, Pier 7 on Naval Base San Diego.

December 1, Capt. Brad L. Arthur relieved Capt. Michael A. Crary as Commander, Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) 5 during a change-of-command ceremony on board the Boxer.

March 2, 2018 USS Boxer suffered a major electrical fire while underway off the coast of southern California. There were no injuries, but the damage to the ship’s compartments and systems were extensive.

March 5, The Boxer moored at Berth 5, Pier 2 on Naval Base San Diego after a six-day underway for sea trials.

July 19, Capt. Ronald A. Dowdell relieved Capt. Benjamin J. Allbritton as CO of the Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship.

August 17, The Boxer moored at Berth 5, Pier 2 after a 17-day underway, off the coast of southern California, for routine training and flight deck certification; Underway again on Sept. 23.

From September 24-27, the Boxer was anchored off the coast of Camp Pendleton North to onload ammunition from the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and NWS Fallbrook; Conducted DLQs with two AV-8B Harriers, assigned to the Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214, on Sept. 29.

October 4, USS Boxer conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Yukon (T-AO 202), while underway southwest of San Clemente Island; Conducted well deck certification from Oct. 9-11.?

October 17, The Boxer moored at Berth 6, Pier 7 on Naval Base San Diego; Underway again from Oct. 19-26 and Nov. 6-9; Underway for a Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) exercise from Dec. 15-19.

January 15, 2019 USS Boxer departed homeport to participate in Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5/Marine Expeditionary Unit Integration Training (PMINT), with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU); Participated in a missile exercise (MISSILEX) on Jan. 29; Moored at Berth 6, Pier 7 on Jan. 31; Underway for ARG/MEUEX from Feb. 12-28.

April 1, LHD 4 moored at Berth 6, Pier 2 on Naval Base San Diego after a 19-day underway for Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX).

May 1, USS Boxer departed San Diego for a scheduled Middle East deployment.

May 10, The Boxer ARG recently arrived off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, for a sustainment training exercise at the Bellows Training Area; Moored at Wharf K10/K11 on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam from May 14-16.

May 27, US Boxer conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4), while underway northwest of Guam; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Guadalupe (T-AO 200) on May 28; Transited the Surigao Strait southbound on June 1; Transited the Singapore Strait westbound on June 5.

June 7, USS Boxer participated in a photo exercise (PHOTOEX) with the FS Charles de Gaulle (R91), FS Latouche-Treville (D646), FS Provence (D652) and FS Marne (A630), while underway in the Andaman Sea; Anchored off Phuket, Thailand, from June 8-13; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Washington Chambers (T-AKE 11), while underway in the Bay of Bengal, on June 17.

June 27, The Boxer ARG recently arrived in the Gulf of Aden for Maritime Security Operations (MSO); Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) and USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14) on June 30.

July 2, Capt. Jason A. Burns relieved Capt. Brad L. Arthur as Commander, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the Boxer.

July 5, The Boxer ARG conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) and USNS Cesar Chavez, while underway in the Gulf of Aden; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) and USNS Tippecanoe, while underway in the North Arabian Sea, on July 14; Transited the Strait of Hormuz northbound, escorted by USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), on July 18.

July 19, USS Boxer, along with the USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Big Horn, while underway in the Central Arabian Gulf; Commenced offload of Marines and equipment, while anchored off Kuwait Naval Base, for a sustainment training on July 21; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea again on July 24.

July 25, USS Boxer moored at Berth 6, Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP) in Hidd, Bahrain, for an eight-day upkeep and a liberty visit to Manama; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Tippecanoe and USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3) on Aug. 10; Transited the Strait of Hormuz southbound on Aug. 12; Transited the Bab el-Mandeb Strait northbound on Aug. 18.

August 21, LHD 4 transited the Strait of Tiran northbound in support of the annual multinational exercise Eager Lion 2019; Moored at Aqaba Naval Base, Jordan, from Aug. 29-31; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Tippecanoe, while underway in the northern Red Sea, on Sept. 6; Transited the Bab el-Mandeb Strait southbound on Sept. 13.

September 15, Capt. Roger D. Heinken, Jr., relieved Capt. Ronald A. Dowdell as CO of the Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship, while underway in the Gulf of Aden.

September 17, The Boxer ARG conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Tippecanoe and USNS Cesar Chavez, while underway in the Gulf of Aden; Departed the Central Command Area of Operations (AoO) on Sept. 23.

September 26, USS Boxer conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Washington Chambers, while underway off the north coast of Sumatra; Transited the Malacca Strait southbound on Sept. 27; Transited the Singapore Strait eastbound on Sept. 28; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) on Sept. 28.

October 2, The Boxer arrived off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia, to participate in a joint amphibious exercise Tiger Strike 2019; Participated in a photo exercise (PHOTOEX) with the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) CSG on Oct. 6; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Rappahannock, while underway in the South China Sea, on Oct. 9 and 16th.

October 26, The Boxer conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Pecos (T-AO 197), while underway in the Philippine Sea; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Rappahannock and USNS Washington Chambers, while underway approximately 50 n.m. northwest of Guam, on Oct. 29; Moored at Berth 2/3, Tango Wharf in Apra Harbor from Oct. 30- Nov. 4.

November 13, The amphibious assault ship moored at Pier H3 on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, for a five-day port visit and to embark friends and family members for a Tiger Cruise; Arrived off Camp Pendleton for offload on Nov. 24.

November 27, USS Boxer moored at Berth 6, Pier 13 on Naval Base San Diego following a seven-month deployment.

January 23, 2020 The Boxer returned to homeport after a two-day underway off the coast of southern California; Underway again from Jan. 28-29 and Feb. 18-21; Underway for a Friends and Family Day Cruise on March 6.

March 27, BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair was awarded a $200,3 million contract for the execution of the USS Boxer's Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability (DSRA). Work is expected to be completed by December 2021.

April 30, The Boxer departed Naval Base San Diego for routine operations off the coast of southern California; Anchored off Camp Pendleton North for ammo offload from May 2-7; Moored at Berth 5, Pier 13 on May 8.

June 30, USS Boxer recently entered the Pride of California Dry Dock on BAE Systems shipyard.

February 11, 2021 Capt. Kathleen M. Ellis relieved Capt. Roger D. Heinken, Jr., as the 20th CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony on board the USS Midway Museum.

August 5, USS Boxer undocked, on late Thursday evening, and moored at Berth 6, Pier 2 on Naval Base San Diego.

June 28, 2022 The Boxer moored at Berth 5, Pier 2 on Naval Base San Diego after a week-long underway for sea trials.

August 4, Capt. Matthew W. Cieslukowski relieved Capt. Kathleen M. Ellis as CO of the Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony on board the ship.

March 3, 2023 Capt. Brian J. Quin relieved Capt. Benjamin J. Allbritton as Commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the Boxer.

June 2, Capt. James W. Harney relieved Capt. Brian J. Quin as Commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5 during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the Boxer.

July 24, USS Boxer moved from Pier 2 to Berth 6, Pier 7 on Naval Base San Diego; Underway again on Aug. 17; Moored at Navy Fuel Farm (NFF) for a brief stop to refuel on Aug. 22 and 29th; Returned home on Sept. 1; Underway again on Sept. 5; Anchored at A-175 for a brief stop on Sept. 7.

September 7, Capt. Brian L. Holmes relieved Capt. Matthew W. Cieslukowski as the 22nd CO of Boxer during a change-of-command ceremony aboard the ship, while anchored off the coast of Coronado.

September 7, USS Boxer moored at Berth 6, Pier 7 on Naval Base San Diego; Underway for routine training on Sept. 18; Anchored at A-175 for a brief stop on Sept. 25 and Oct. 9; Anchored at A-175 again from Oct. 10-11; Returned home on Oct. 11; Underway again from Oct. 20-22; Underway for Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) exercise on Oct. 27.

October 31, The Boxer moored at Bravo Pier on Naval Air Station North Island for a brief stop before moored at Berth 6, Pier 7 on Naval Base San Diego; Underway again from Nov. 1-13; Underway for Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 5/Marine Expeditionary Unit Integration Training (PMINT), with the 15th MEU, from Nov. 14-22; Underway for ARG/MEUEX from Dec. 7-21.

January 18, 2024 USS Boxer moored at Berth 6, Pier 7 on Naval Base San Diego after a 15-day underway for Certification Exercise (CERTEX); Underway again on March 18; Anchored off Camp Pendleton for a day-long stop to onload ammo on March 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22nd; Returned home on March 25.

April 1, USS Boxer departed San Diego for a scheduled deployment; Conducted onload off the coast of Camp Pendleton on April 3; Conducted offload on April 11.

April 11, The Boxer moored at Berth M/N on Naval Air Station North Island after suffered an engineering casualty to its rudder, while conducting training requirements and reintegration with the MV-22B Ospreys in the SOCAL Op. Area; Moved "dead-stick" to Berth 6, Pier 7 in Naval Base San Diego on April 15.

July 3, USS Boxer departed homeport for sea trials and a Sustainment Exercise (SUSTEX) in the SOCAL Op. Area; Anchored at A-175 for a brief stop on July 4; Conducted onload off the coast of Camp Pendleton on July 5; Moored at NFF for a brief stop to refuel on July 14; Moored at Berth Lima, NAS North Island for a brief stop, to disembark a damaged MV-22B Osprey, on July 16.

July 23, The Boxer made a brief stop off the coast of Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Kaneohe Bay before transited westbound, off the north coast of Oahu; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) on July 24; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the HMNZS Aotearoa (A11) on July 25.

August 5, LHD 4 conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10), while underway in the Philippine Sea; Conducted offload off the coast of Pohang, Republic of Korea, on Aug. 8; Moored at Busan Naval Base, ROK, from Aug. 9-1?.

August 17, USS Boxer moored at Berth 12 on Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, for a four-day liberty port visit; Transited the Osumi Strait westbound on Aug. 23; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the HMNZS Aotearoa on Aug. 24; Brief stop off the coast of Pohang, in support of amphibious landing exercise Ssang Yong 2024, on Aug. 25; Moored at Berth 3 in Busan Naval Base from Aug. 26-31.

From September 1-3, the Boxer conducted operations approximately 40 n.m. northeast of Pohang; Participated in a PHOTOEX with the USS America (LHA 6), USS Comstock (LSD 45), USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49) and South Korean Navy ships, on Sept. 4; Conducted a replenishment-at-sea with the HMNZS Aotearoa on Sept. 4; Moored at Berth 3 in Busan Naval Base again from Sept. 5-9; Conducted backload off the coast of Pohang from Sept. 10-11.

September 16, USS Boxer moored at Berth 1/2, Akasaki Pier in Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan, for a one-day port call to refuel; Transited the Osumi Strait eastbound, just after midnight, on Sept. 21; Moored at Berth 2/3, Akasaki Pier in Fleet Activities Sasebo from Sept. 27-28; Moored at Berth 3 in Busan Naval Base from Sept. 30- Oct. 2.

October 8, USS Boxer arrived off the northeast coast of Philippines to support the U.S. Agency for International Development's (USAID) efforts in foreign disaster response operations following Typhoon Krathon.