USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG-58)

The USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG-58) was a Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided missile frigate of the United States Navy. She was named for Coxswain Samuel B. Roberts Jr., who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Guadalcanal Campaign in World War II.

FFG-58 was commissioned on April 12, 1986, and was homeported in Newport, Rhode Island. Her primary mission was to provide anti-submarine warfare (ASW) escort for carrier battle groups, amphibious ready groups, and military convoys. She was equipped with a variety of sensors and weapons systems, including the AN/SQS-56 sonar, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, and a 76mm rapid-fire gun. She also carried two SH-60B Seahawk LAMPS III helicopters for ASW and surface surveillance.

The Samuel B. Roberts is best known for being severely damaged by an Iranian mine in the Persian Gulf on April 14, 1988, while participating in Operation Earnest Will, the escort of reflagged Kuwaiti tankers. The mine blew a large hole in the ship's hull, flooding several compartments and causing significant damage. Despite the damage, the crew, led by Captain Paul Rinn, fought valiantly to save the ship. Using damage control techniques, they kept the ship afloat and prevented further damage.

In response to the mining, the United States launched Operation Praying Mantis on April 18, 1988, targeting Iranian naval assets and oil platforms believed to be involved in the mining operation. The USS Samuel B. Roberts was eventually towed to Dubai for initial repairs and then transported back to the United States.

The USS Samuel B. Roberts underwent extensive repairs and modifications before being returned to service. She continued to serve in the Navy until her decommissioning on May 22, 2015. The ship's bell is on display at the National Museum of the Surface Navy at Nauticus in Norfolk, Virginia. The story of the USS Samuel B. Roberts and its crew is often cited as an example of courage, determination, and effective damage control in the face of adversity.