The USS Essex (LHD 2) enters a dry dock in San Diego, Calif The amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) enters a dry dock at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego, Calif., on March 24, 2013. The ship will undergo an 18-month maintenance and upgrade period and expects to return to the fleet in 2014. SHARE: Download: Full Size (0.06 MB) Credit: VIRIN: 905468-V-OVT64-866.jpg Photo Gallery