"Gary" is the forty-fifth ship of the of guided missile frigates. These ships were built to provide air, surface and sub-surface protection for underway replenishment groups, convoys, amphibious groups and other military and merchant shipping. While a capable surface combatant in these traditional warfare areas, "Gary"s role has expanded from that of the early 1980s to meet the threats and contingencies of the 21st century. Being the smallest multi-mission surface combatant in the U.S. Navy, "Gary"s shallow draft gives her an advantage over larger cruisers and destroyers in the littoral operations that have characterized recent conflicts.