The USS Alvin C Cockrell DE 366, a John C Butler class destroyer escort was constructed in Orange,Texas during World War II by the Consolidated Steel Corporation. Launched on August 8, 1944, the ship was named in honor of Alvin C. Cockrell, a sailor who received the Navy Cross posthumously for his deeds at Pearl Harbor.
A notable aspect of the USS Alvin C Cockrell DE 366 was its role in safeguarding convoys against submarine attacks during the war. Equipped with depth charges, hedgehogs and sonar technology it played a part in detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines to protect Allied shipping routes from U boats.
The legacy of the USS Alvin C Cockrell DE 366 endures within the US Navy as a symbol of courage and sacrifice exhibited by its crew members in World War II. Engaging in convoy escort missions across the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea the vessel contributed significantly to securing victory for the Allies. Its service was duly recognized with battle stars for its contributions, to the war effort.
The USS Alvin C Cockrell DE 366 was a member of the Butler class destroyer escorts, which were specifically built to safeguard convoys and assist in operations, in both the Atlantic and Pacific regions during World War II. Although smaller and slower compared to destroyers these ships excelled in their ability to combat submarines. The contribution of the Butler class destroyer escorts was pivotal in securing victory for the Allies during World War II.
The USS Alvin C Cockrell DE 366 underwent training and testing before being assigned to escort convoys across the Atlantic Ocean. The crews unwavering effort ensured that the ship was prepared for battle playing a role in its success throughout the war.
The Mighty USS Alvin C Cockrell DE-366: A Closer Look at the Technology and Firepower of a Naval Legend
The USS Alvin C Cockrell DE 366 was a destroyer escort of the Butler class that served in the United States Navy during World War II. It had a steel hull and aluminum superstructure making it strong yet lightweight, for its size. Measuring 306 feet long with a beam of 36 feet, the USS Alvin C Cockrell was powered by four General Motors diesel engines enabling it to reach speeds up to 24 knots.
In terms of technology the ship was equipped with radar and sonar systems for detecting enemy vessels and submarines. It also featured a fire control system for its armament. Three 3 inch/50 caliber guns positioned on the bow and stern. Additionally it carried three 21 inch torpedo tubes and depth charges for submarine warfare.
With a crew consisting of around 220 officers and enlisted personnel the USS Alvin C Cockrell was primarily designed for convoy escort missions to safeguard merchant ships against enemy threats. The crew underwent training, in submarine tactics, gunnery skills and damage control procedures to effectively respond to potential enemy attacks.
In the scheme of things, the USS Alvin C Cockrell proved to be a prepared and adaptable escort destroyer that served a pivotal purpose in securing the Allied triumph throughout World War II. Its blend of cutting-edge equipment, weaponry and proficient crew members established it as a presence on the oceans aiding in the triumph of Allied missions, in both the Atlantic and Pacific regions.
USS Alvin C Cockrell DE-366 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Alvin C. Cockrell (DE-366) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crewmembers, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship during the 1960s, highlighting the camaraderie, unique experiences, and personal growth that came with serving on this vessel.David Lawson, who served as an E-3 in 1965, recalls his time aboard the USS Alvin C. Cockrell as part of a broader naval career that included service at the Naval Reserve Training Center (NRTC) in Alameda, California, from 1963 to 1965. He transitioned to active duty in June 1965, joining the USS Kennebec (AO-36) and serving until 1967, with deployments to the Far East and Vietnam. While his time on the USS Alvin C. Cockrell was brief, it was a significant stepping stone in his naval journey.
David Cussins, who served as a Seaman A in 1963, fondly remembers the ship as a "good ship" and cherishes the many great weekends he spent on board as a weekend warrior. One of his standout memories involves his first cruise, where he diligently stood bridge watch and saluted the captain every time he entered the bridge. This dedication to protocol led the captain to ask the Officer of the Deck (OD) to request that Cussins stop saluting so frequently, a humorous yet telling anecdote of his early days at sea.
Dudley Gray, who served as an FTG2 in 1960, shares a unique contribution to the ship's history. He designed the 1962 Cruise Patch, a piece of memorabilia he never expected to see again. His rediscovery of the patch while researching for a work colleague's daughter's Veteran's Day poster brought back a flood of memories. This small but significant piece of history highlights the lasting impact of his service and the pride he takes in his contributions to the ship's legacy.
Robert Harkness, who served as a Seaman (SN) in 1965, reflects on his time as part of the reserve crew from 1965 to 1966. Initially serving as a bosun's striker and later as an electronics technician (ET) striker, Harkness cherished the cruises and the camaraderie he experienced aboard the USS Alvin C. Cockrell. His memories emphasize the strong bonds formed among the crew and the sense of belonging that came with serving on this vessel.
These shared memories from the USS Alvin C. Cockrell's guestbook provide a rich tapestry of life aboard the ship during the 1960s. From the humorous moments and personal achievements to the deep sense of camaraderie and pride in their service, these recollections offer a glimpse into the lives of the men who served on this storied vessel.
USS Alvin C. Cockrell DE-366: Evolution of a Naval Guardian
Throughout its service the USS Alvin C. Cockrell (DE 366) underwent upgrades to maintain its effectiveness, in the U.S. Navy. Initially put into service during World War II the ship was outfitted with cutting edge radar and sonar systems, for its submarine warfare duties. Over time it received updates to its warfare and communication systems improving its capability to detect and engage enemy submarines and surface vessels. These enhancements included advanced sonar arrays upgraded radar systems and improved anti-aircraft weaponry to effectively respond to changing threats.
In terms of mission capabilities, the USS Alvin C. Cockrell served as a versatile destroyer escort tasked with safeguarding convoys and larger naval ships from submarine and air assaults. Equipped with depth charges, hedgehog submarine mortars, torpedoes and anti-aircraft guns the ship stood ready to confront both underwater and aerial threats. Throughout its history the USS Alvin C. Cockrell took on a range of tasks beyond its original mission, such, as participating in search and rescue missions conducting coastal patrols and supporting amphibious landings. These varied roles showcased the ships versatility in handling operations.
The USS Alvin C. Cockrell made contributions to the fleet during World War II and the early Cold War era. In World War II it played a role in safeguarding supply routes across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans ensuring the safe transportation of troops and materials to their destinations. By escorting convoys it effectively minimized the threat posed by enemy submarines thus enhancing the success of endeavors. In the war period the ship continued to serve as a deterrent against potential threats by engaging in training exercises that boosted the Navys operational readiness.
Throughout its service life the USS Alvin C. Cockrell demonstrated qualities of resilience and adaptability by integrating technologies and expanding its mission capabilities over time. These efforts ensured that it remained an asset to the U.S. Navy for a period. Its involvement, in convoy protection, anti submarine warfare operations and various other naval tasks highlighted its significance within the fleet.
The USS Alvin C. Cockrell has left a lasting mark on the history of the U.S. Navy by not fulfilling its purpose but also adjusting to the evolving needs of naval warfare showcasing its enduring legacy.
USS Alvin C. Cockrell DE-366: Guardian of the Seas and Silent Sentinel of Valor
The USS Alvin C. Cockrell (DE 366) was actively involved in theaters of operation during its service playing a role, in the United States Navys efforts in World War II and the early Cold War era. Commissioned in 1944 the ship served in the Pacific Theater, where it took part in operations. Its main task was to escort convoys and safeguard them from enemy submarines and aircraft to ensure the transport of troops and essential supplies for the war effort. The presence of the ship in the Pacific highlighted the role of destroyer escorts in maintaining dominance and logistical support during wartime.
Throughout World War II, the USS Alvin C. Cockrell participated in battles in the Pacific region. It provided submarine warfare capabilities and played a role, in the Battle of Okinawa one of the largest amphibious assaults there. The crew displayed skills and courage successfully repelling kamikaze attacks and contributing to the overall success of the operation.
The participation of the ship, in these battles emphasized the significance of destroyer escorts in defending against both surface and aerial threats
Following the war the USS Alvin C. Cockrell continued its service into the years of the Cold War. It took part in missions, such as training drills and friendly visits to allied countries. These missions played a role in keeping readiness intact and promoting international collaboration during a time of heightened global tension. The ships adaptability and reliability proved to be assets to the US Navy of meeting the changing demands of naval warfare and diplomacy.
Throughout its duty the USS Alvin C. Cockrell received awards and accolades reflecting the dedication and professionalism exhibited by its crew members. Among its honors were decorations like the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with two battle stars, the World War II Victory Medal and the Navy Occupation Service Medal. These distinctions acknowledged the ships contributions during conflicts but also highlighted its role in upholding peace and security post war. The enduring legacy of USS Alvin C. Cockrell stands as a testament to the spirit of excellence within the US Navy, across both engagements and peacetime operations.
USS Alvin C Cockrell DE-366 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | John C Butler Class Destroyer Escort |
| Commissioned | August 7, 1944 |
| Displacement | 1,745 tons |
| Length | 306 feet |
| Beam | 36.9 feet |
| Draft | 13.5 feet |
| Speed | 24 knots |
| Complement | 14 Officers 201 Enlisted |