The USS Pinckney, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, was the recipient of the USS Arizona Memorial Trophy, which is presented to the ship that is deemed as the most combat-ready ship in the surface force.

The USS Pinckney was able to demonstrate the greatest combat readiness in strike warfare, surface fire support and anti-surface warfare, during the 2009 and 2010 calendar year, as shared in a feature on the Navy website.

Credit for the accolade goes to the Sailors who are serving aboard the ship, especially the combat systems and weapons departments, although their success could not be achieved without the collaborative effort of the entire crew.

Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations, shared: “Selection for this coveted award reflects the impressive technical expertise and professionalism exhibited by USS Pinckney’s crew over the past two years… Totally dedicated to the highest level of combat systems operational readiness and warfighting proficiency, they performed brilliantly in exercises as well as real world anti-submarine warfare and strike missions spanning the 3rd, 5th, and 7th Fleets areas of responsibility.”

The award served as a fitting recognition to the teamwork and dedication of the crew of USS Pinckney, especially those who have been serving aboard the ship for several years.

Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class (SW) Rhawna Villanueva, assigned to Pinckney’s weapons department, shared: “I think it’s pretty awesome, especially since it covers a two-year period. I’ve been here for four and a half years so I’ve seen what it takes to operate well for that long, and to get recognized for it is a nice little pat on the back.”