YOKOSUKA – The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88) arrived at its forward-deployed location of Yokosuka, Japan, to join Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, Oct.12, 2024.

The ship was commissioned Nov. 9, 2002, in Boston and had been homeported at Naval Base San Diego for nearly 22 years.

“We are thrilled to have Preble join the team in the Western Pacific,” said Capt. Justin Harts, Commander, Destroyer Squadron 15. “Her arrival is a welcome addition to the DESRON 15 family, and her advanced capabilities add unique value. I am excited to get Preble underway with our allies and partners to see what she can do.”

The ship is named in honor of Commodore Edward Preble, who served in the American Revolutionary War and was one of the early leaders of the Navy. USS Preble is the 38th destroyer of its class.

The United States values Japan’s contributions to the peace, security and stability of the Indo-Pacific and its long-term commitment and hospitality in hosting U.S. forces forward deployed there. These forces, along with their counterparts in the Japan Self-Defense Forces, make up the core capabilities needed by the alliance to meet common strategic objectives and support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Preble is forward deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.