The decommissioned Towers (DDG 9), an old Adams-class destroyer, slowly sinks in the Pacific Ocean after being used as a target during live-fire sinking exercises (SINKEX) off the California coast. Using decommissioned ships for live-fire operations gives ships' crews experience in firing operational weapons and hones their war-fighting skills. Working with the state and environmentalists, the Navy sinks decommissioned ships ? first made environmentally safe ? in selected coastal waters to provide an artificial reef, thus promoting the growth of marine life and enhancing recreational fishing and sport diving opportunities. Commissioned in June 1961, Towers served the U.S. for nearly 30 years. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Andrew Betting.