Turkish Navy’s sole surviving Knox class frigate, F-253 TCG Zafer is very active despite her age. Last year she took part in Operation Unified Protector. She had her photos posted on the Facebook page of USNS Kanawha.
I was thinking that she may have been already decommissioned but the old lady was seen today in Mersin harbor.
The UN crest used by the naval vessels taking part in UNIFIL is clearly visible in the photo below, which was also taken today. This indicates that TCG Zafer is now taking part in UNIFIL mission.
So when the old Russian Kashin class destroyer Smetlivy arrives in the eastern Mediterranean in a couple of days, she will meet at least one other ship close to her age.
devrimyaylali.com 
Zafer may outlive the builder’s yard, Avondale, which looks to be closing down soon.
That would an irony, wouldn’t it?
ZAFER is a good ship. Rode on her (when she was USS THOMAS C HART) for 3 years. Go ZAFER!!!!! May she continue to serve her country and crew faithfully.
She is a hard working ship indeed. I can only support your good wishes!
I also am a veteran of the USS Thomas C. Hart. I am so glad to see the old girl still sailing strong. She was always the best in class. I had the privilege of making port both in Izmir and Antalya a couple of times aboard her. Great times. I’m glad to see her serving her country well! Bravo Zulu!
What would it take to bring her home!?