The USS Ray (SSN-653) was a Sturgeon-class nuclear-powered attack submarine in the United States Navy. It was the first Navy ship named after Raymond W. Hunter, a submarine pioneer. Commissioned in 1969, the USS Ray underwent various deployments and missions during the Cold War era, including surveillance operations and anti-submarine warfare exercises. The submarine also participated in exercises with other navies and conducted scientific research missions. In 1991, the USS Ray was decommissioned and subsequently disposed of through the Navy's recycling program. Throughout its service, the USS Ray received several awards and commendations for its operational excellence. The submarine's legacy continues to be honored by the Navy and submarine enthusiasts, highlighting its contributions to naval operations and technological advancements in the undersea domain.

This description has been generated using GPT-3.5-TURBO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.