"The keel for USS Cincinnati (SSN-693), the
forth ship to bear the name, was laid on 6 April 1974 at Newport News Shipbuilding
and Drydock Company, Newport News, Virginia. The ship was launched
February 19, 1977 and commissioned 10 June 1978 under the command of CDR.
G.V. Wilkes, III, USN. After commissioning, the Cincinnati traveled
to New London, CT. for crew training. During the summer of 1978 Cincinnati
conducted sound trials, midshipman operations, and torpedo firing exercises.
In the fall of 1978 the ship participated in the NATO exercise "Northern
Wedding". In January 1979 the ship returned to Newport News Shipbuilding
and Drydock Company for a five month post shakedown availability.
At the completion of her availability, Cincinnati participated in the training
of Prospective Commanding Officers, further sound trails and torpedo firing
exercises. In the fall of 1979, the Cincinnati began preparations for her
first deployment to the Mediterranean."
Provided by Patrick St. Romain