Pearl Harbor Welcomes the USS Frank Cable: Bringing Together Generations of Service
The U.S. Navy submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS-40) departs Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (USA), on 25 April 2005 following a port visit. Frank Cable was home ported out of Guam.
On October 29, 1979, the USS Frank Cable (AS-40), an American submarine tender, joined the ranks of the United States Navy. Initially tasked with supporting Los Angeles-class attack submarines, the vessel became a critical repair ship for Submarine Squadrons Four and Eighteen near Charleston, SC. Over the decades, USS Frank Cable earned recognition for its service, including contributions to rescue efforts for Korean Airlines Flight 801 and disaster relief during Super Typhoon Paka.
In its long history of service, the Frank Cable has received more than 20 prestigious awards, including 13 Battle Efficiency “E” awards and four Golden Anchor Awards, honoring excellence and readiness. After five years stationed in Guam, the ship and its crew finally returned to the United States, docking at one of America’s most historic harbors—Pearl Harbor
A Historic Visit to Pearl Harbor
Over 75 years after the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor, the USS Frank Cable and its crew arrived at this iconic location. For the sailors, this visit was more than a routine docking; it was an opportunity to connect with history and pay tribute to the courageous servicemen of the past.
Their journey included a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, one of the most poignant reminders of the attack on December 7, 1941. Standing alongside thousands of visitors from across the globe, the crew reflected on the sacrifices made by their predecessors.
Flying over the wreckage of the USS Arizona and witnessing the memorial’s solemn beauty offered the Frank Cable’s crew a profound experience. The emotions stirred by this historic site are shared by millions of visitors, making the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument a place of unity between past and present servicemembers.
Bridging Generations Through Memorials
Pearl Harbor holds a unique place in history, serving as a bridge between the sailors of World War II and today’s servicemembers. While many survivors of the attack are no longer with us, the stories they left behind live on through memorials like the USS Arizona Memorial.
For the crew of USS Frank Cable, the visit was a vivid reminder of the resilience and dedication of those who faced unimaginable challenges in 1941. Seeing the sunken wreckage of the USS Arizona is a starkly different experience from hearing about it, creating a lasting impression on all who visit.
Exploring Pearl Harbor’s Exhibits and Beyond
The World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument offers a comprehensive glimpse into the events of December 7, 1941. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and the Battleship Missouri Memorial all contribute to a deeper understanding of the attack and its significance in American history.
For the Frank Cable crew, exploring these exhibits was an opportunity to gain insight into the challenges and heroism of their naval predecessors. Beyond Pearl Harbor, the sailors also embraced the chance to enjoy Oahu’s tropical beauty and rich cultural heritage, creating a blend of historical reverence and adventure.
Pearl Harbor: A Timeless Connection
The visit of the USS Frank Cable to Pearl Harbor underscores the timeless connection between generations of naval servicemembers. The harbor remains a vital touchstone, not just for the military but for civilians seeking to understand the pivotal events that shaped the modern world.
For today’s sailors, stepping onto the hallowed grounds of Pearl Harbor is a moment of reflection, respect, and inspiration. The story of the USS Frank Cable, alongside the legacy of the servicemen from 1941, highlights the enduring spirit of the United States Navy—a force united across time, committed to service, and inspired by history.
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The following tours are recognized as the most popular Pearl Harbor Tours on Oahu. While generally, our price is the lowest in the market now, for a limited time, they are on sale too. Please be advised that Pearl Harbor tickets and USS Arizona Memorial tickets are included in all of our Arizona Memorial Tours, Pearl Harbor small group tours, and private Pearl Harbor tours.