The decommissioned ship Towers (DDG 9), an old Adams-class destroyer, slowly sinks in the Pacific Ocean after being used as a target hulk for live-fire sinking exercises (SINKEX). Using decommissioned ships for live-fire operations gives shipsâ 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. U.S. Navy photo by Photographerâs Mate Airman Andrew Betting. (RELEASED)