The USS Woodrow Wilson (SSBN-624) was a Lafayette-class ballistic missile submarine, laid down in 1961, launched, and commissioned in 1963. Following her shakedown cruise and post-shakedown repairs, she began her first deterrent patrol in the Atlantic. From 1964 to 1968, the ship operated out of forward bases in Spain and Scotland. After a 13-month overhaul and conversion to the Polaris A3 missile system, the submarine joined the Pacific Fleet. Between 1969 and 1972, she continued deterrent patrols in the western Pacific and underwent another missile upgrade to the Poseidon C3. Over the years, the submarine completed over 40 deterrent patrols and underwent multiple overhauls, including her final refueling in 1988. In 1990, she was converted into an SSN attack submarine. She achieved 11-for-11 torpedo firings, supported Naval Special Warfare, passed her Tactical Readiness Evaluation, earned the White “A” for excellence in Anti-Submarine Warfare, and participated in exercises across several regions. The USS Woodrow Wilson was decommissioned and removed from the Naval Vessel Register in 1994. Many submarines built during this era used materials containing asbestos. If you served aboard one and believe you were exposed, you may have legal options for compensation due to asbestos-related health risks.
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