US Navy decommissions Bonhomme Richard after fire destroyed amphibious assault ship in July

SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Navy on Wednesday decommissioned the USS Bonhomme Richard docked off San Diego nine months after flames engulfed it in one of the worst U.S. warship fires outside of combat in recent memory.

The ceremony at Naval Base San Diego was not open to the public, with the Navy citing concerns over the spread of the coronavirus.

RELATED

Here’s what the damage inside the Bonhomme Richard looks like

Photos from above and inside the charred amphib have emerged online this week.

By Geoff Ziezulewicz

The amphibious assault ship is expected to be towed to a ship yard in Texas for dismantling.

The ship that ignited July 12 burned for four days and was left with extensive structural, electrical and mechanical damage. A Navy official said arson was believed to be the cause.

The Navy estimated that repairing the ship would run more than $2.5 billion. Dismantling the ship is expected to cost about $30 million.

In Other News

DOD fixes problem that mistakenly dropped 16K Tricare beneficiaries

Defense Health officials advise those who briefly lost Tricare coverage to call the DEERS support office to confirm their eligibility.

States put National Guard on standby in case of election violence

The governors of three states said they’re prepared to use the National Guard to help with potential civil unrest on Election Day or the days after.

Here’s how many new sailors the Navy wants to recruit this year

The service exceeded its recruitment goals last year and is looking to bring in even more sailors this year.

Best for Vets: Hiring veterans on the other side of the world

Military Times' annual Best for Vets list looks at the top veteran-friendly employers.

Best for Vets: Colleges work to build community for military students

Military Times' annual Best for Vets list looks at the top-100 veteran-friendly colleges and universities.

Load More