Somber Farewell for USS Cowpens in San Diego
The USS Cowpens, a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser, bid a poignant farewell as it sailed into the pages of history after a decommissioning ceremony in San Diego on August 27. The ship was named after the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Cowpens, that took place in Spartanburg County nearly 250 years ago.
A Ship’s Legacy
This warship stood as a reflection of American military might and shared a strong connection with Spartanburg County, home of the battle that inspired its name. It was built in Maine and launched in Charleston in 1991. The ship had an illustrious career, participating in significant military operations during the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.
This is the second ship that carried the name USS Cowpens. The first USS Cowpens voyaged for four years during World War II, from 1943 to 1947, earning the memorable nickname, “The Mighty Moo“.
The Decommissioning Ceremony
The decommissioning ceremony was a solemn affair, filled with mixed emotions. Attendees included Teresa Clark, a clerk for the Town of Cowpens, along with other town leaders. Clark, who also witnessed the ship’s launch over three decades ago, said, “It was quiet and somber experience. It was kind of sad but at the same time it was good to see the ship and the crewmen.”
Memorabilia to be Displayed
The town is set to receive memorabilia from the ship for display at the Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center. The center boasts a wing dedicated to both ships that carried the Cowpens name, further preserving the legacy of these magnificent vessels.
A Tribute to History
Reflecting on the ship’s service, Cowpens’ commanding officer, Cmdr. Jac O. Ullman III, expressed that their guiding principle in these final days was to honor the legacy of the Battle of Cowpens – the determination, creativity and the spirit of the Continental Army and Militiamen.
Now decommissioned, the USS Cowpens will be towed to the Navy’s Inactive Ship facility in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, where it will remain in a Logistic Support Asset status.
The Town’s Annual Mighty Moo Festival
Inspired by the nickname of the first USS Cowpens, the Mighty Moo Festival is an annual event in the Town of Cowpens. Celebrated in the third week of June, the festival honors the crew of its namesakes. Even with its namesake decommissioned, the festival is expected to continue as usual, perhaps with an even stronger community connection due to bonds forged with service members during the decommissioning ceremony.
The festival holds strong significance; the Town of Cowpens is rooted in rich military history and a deep respect for veterans. The memorable Battle of Cowpens, fought on Jan 17, 1781, saw American revolutionary forces under Brig. Gen. Daniel Morgan emerge victorious against British forces led by Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton. The battle was a turning point in the American Revolution.
Retelling a Proud History, Looking Forward to the Future
As the history-laden Town of Cowpens looks forward to the future, it hopes to create more historical interest for the community, continue its storytelling, and foster a deeper appreciation for the past. “There’s so much history in our town, in our community, and it just seems to be all tied in together from the 1700s all the way through 2024,” stated Clark, hinting at the exciting things to come for this small town with a big history.
