USS Bonhomme Richard

"Struck Sir? I have not yet begun to fight!"

USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD-6) is an Amphibious Assault Ship. The primary mission of our ship is to embark, deploy and land elements of a Marine landing force in amphibious assault operations by helicopter, landing craft, amphibious vehicle or any combination of these means.

BONHOMME RICHARD was uniquely designed to support assault from the sea against defended positions ashore. She is able to sail in harm'sway and provide a rapid buildup of combat power ashore in the face of opposition. The United States maintains the largest and most capable amphibious force in the world. The Wasp-class are the largest amphibious ships in the world.

USS Bonhomme Richard History

The much anticipated arrival of Fleet Week had finally arrived. This naturally involved an early start, so after hoooking up with Cathy (Phil and Andie's friend) and her kids we set off on our journey to San Francisco's famous piers.

Upon arrival we headed straight for The Beach Street Cafe home to 'American Comfort Food'. Full breakfasts all round :)

Having realised we were at the wrong end of San Fran's famous piers we headed out on our arduous journey to the correct pier to meet Cathy's husband Lieutenant (LTJG) Joe Martin who had just sailed in onboard the USS Bonhomme Richard as part of Fleet Week.

After greeting Joe, who was in full dress uniform he not only guided us past what can only be described as an enourmous line of queueing general public waiting to get a tour of the Bonhomme Richard, but also took us on a personal guided tour of the ship. Much to our delight this entailed many non tour areas of the ship. Joe gave us an intresting and detailed insight into the ship, it's crew and it's historical onboard naval traditions.

Down in the decks below we met US Marines with their landing assualt vehicles and weapons of war. The personal tour concluded with a dockside BBQ and drinks courtesy of the Navy and Police.

I'd just like to say a personal thanks to Mister Joe Martin and the Crew of the USS Bonhomme Richard....AWESOME !