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Caption:
KINGS BAY, Ga. (April 26, 2008) -- The guided-missile submarine USS
Florida (SSGN 728) departs Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay for its first
operational deployment after undergoing conversion from a
ballistic-missile capable submarine (SSBN) to a guided-missile
submarine (SSGN). The normal patrol for an SSBN is about three months;
however, as an SSGN, Florida will be deployed for approximately 12
months. Florida departed with her blue crew, led by Capt. William
Traub. The blue crew will rotate duties every three months with the
gold crew, led by Capt. John Litherland, during the deployment. The use
of two crews allows Florida to have a greater forward presence and the
conversion from ballistic missiles to guided missiles allows for
greater payload capacity and mission flexibility. U.S. Navy photo by
Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kimberly Clifford (Released)
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