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).

KINGS BAY, Ga. (Apr. 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 File# 080426-N-1841C-050