Pacific Ocean (Oct. 9, 2002) -- The 76mm rapid-fire gun aboard the guided missile frigate USS Sides (FFG 14) is fired at the destroyer Towers (DDG 9) during a live fire sinking exercise (SINKEX) conducted off the California coast. Using decommissioned ships for live-fire operations gives ships crews the experience of launching operational weapons and honing their war-fighting skills. The decommissioned ships are first made environmentally safe prior to towing and sinking in safe waters off prospective coastlines. Ultimately, the Towers will serve as a man-made reef for marine life in the area.