USS Bache DD-470
The USS Bache (DD-470) was a Fletcher-class destroyer built during World War II, a time of rapid naval growth and tech leaps. Her keel was laid on November 23, 1941, at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation's shipyard in Staten Island, New York. She was launched on July 7, 1942, and officially joined the U.S. Navy on November 14, 1942. This ship was part of a big push to strengthen the U.S. fleet against rising threats in both the Atlantic and Pacific.
Named after Commander George M. Bache, a brave officer from the Civil War, the ship carried a legacy of courage. Commander Bache was known for his leadership at the Battle of Fort Henry and the Battle of Fort Donelson. Naming the ship after him was meant to inspire the crew with his spirit of bravery and dedication.
The USS Bache had the classic features of a Fletcher-class destroyer. She boasted five 5-inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, and a range of anti-aircraft weapons. This made her a tough opponent in both surface and air battles. Fletcher-class ships were all about speed, agility, and firepower, letting them take on roles from convoy escort to hunting enemy subs and ships.
The USS Bache's legacy in the Navy is rich with action. She took part in many key operations during World War II, earning several battle stars for her service. Her role in battles like Leyte Gulf and Okinawa showed just how crucial destroyers were in naval warfare. The ship's performance and her crew's bravery left a mark on naval tactics and future destroyer designs.
As a Fletcher-class destroyer, the USS Bache was built to be versatile and effective in various combat situations. These ships were designed for anti-submarine and anti-aircraft defense, supporting amphibious operations, and engaging enemy vessels. Known for their toughness and effectiveness, the Fletcher-class ships, including the USS Bache, adapted well to the changing demands of World War II.
When the USS Bache was commissioned on November 14, 1942, it marked the start of her notable service. Under Lieutenant Commander John W. Cooper, she quickly became a key player in the Pacific Theater. The commissioning ceremony was a big deal, showing the ship's readiness to join the fight and support the Allied effort. Throughout her service, the USS Bache embodied the resilience, versatility, and combat prowess that defined the Fletcher-class destroyers.
USS Bache DD-470: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Bache (DD-470) was a Fletcher-class destroyer, a class known for its sturdy design and adaptability during World War II. It measured 376 feet 6 inches in length, with a beam of 39 feet 8 inches, and a draft of 17 feet 9 inches. This design allowed for a displacement of about 2,050 tons under standard load and up to 2,500 tons when fully loaded. Built with high-tensile steel, the ship balanced durability and weight, enabling high speeds and maneuverability—key for its role in naval warfare. Its superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, crucial for operational effectiveness.
The USS Bache was technologically advanced for its time. It was powered by four General Electric steam turbines, fed by four Babcock & Wilcox boilers. This setup allowed the destroyer to reach speeds of up to 35 knots, making it one of the fleet's fastest ships. Equipped with the SG surface search radar and the SC air search radar, the ship had critical situational awareness and targeting capabilities. It also featured sonar equipment for anti-submarine warfare, enhancing its ability to detect and engage underwater threats.
The ship's armament was impressive, reflecting its role as a multi-mission destroyer. It had five 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, capable of engaging both surface and air targets. These guns were mounted in single turrets, offering a wide arc of fire and quick response to threats. The USS Bache also carried anti-aircraft weaponry, including ten 40mm Bofors guns and seven 20mm Oerlikon cannons, essential for defending against enemy aircraft. This combination of weapons allowed the ship to provide effective anti-aircraft cover for larger ships and convoys.
Beyond its surface and anti-aircraft capabilities, the USS Bache was equipped with various anti-submarine weapons. It featured two depth charge tracks and six K-gun depth charge projectors for deploying explosive charges against submerged submarines. The destroyer was also armed with ten 21-inch torpedo tubes arranged in two quintuple mounts, capable of launching torpedoes at enemy ships. This diverse array of weaponry made the USS Bache a versatile and formidable opponent in naval engagements, ready to tackle threats from the air, surface, and underwater domains.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Bache (DD-470) holds a rich tapestry of memories from its crew members, spanning from World War II to the late 1960s. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, the camaraderie among the sailors, and the significant events that marked its history.
**World War II Era:** Pebo DeSimone served as the ship's barber in 1944, known for giving non-regulation haircuts with the captain's approval. Malcolm Lockwood, an Electrician's Mate 3rd Class, reminisced about his duties in the engine room and showing movies in the mess halls. He vividly recalled the kamikaze attacks during the Iwo Jima and Okinawa invasions, particularly the devastating hit on May 13, 1945, which resulted in significant casualties. Carl Clendenning, who perished in the same attack, is remembered by his family seeking more information about his service. Alfred Sholar's father also served during this period and received commendation for his actions during a kamikaze strike. William Wilde, a Machinist's Mate 1st Class, was on throttles in the aft engine room during the kamikaze hit, which led to the ship being put out of commission in Charleston. John Delworth, a radar man, was part of the crew that returned the damaged ship to the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
**Post-War and 1950s:** Henry Cybulski served from 1952, advancing from YNSA to YN2, and later transferred to the USS Eaton. Wendell Stimets, the ship's doctor, left behind a collection of over 500 color photos from a 1954 Mediterranean cruise, now digitized and available for sharing. Roy Starks joined the Bache in 1952 after Radar School, recalling shakedown cruises in the Caribbean and trips to the Mediterranean, as well as sub-chasing exercises in Londonderry.
**1960s and the Final Years:** The 1960s saw the Bache involved in significant Cold War events. Larry Gilmore, a Radarman 1st Class, remembered the Cuban Blockade and a Mediterranean cruise from 1963-64, including a drag race from Elba with other squadron ships. David Moltedo joined the ship during its shakedown at Gitmo and served until its deployment to Vietnam. Jeff Christiansen reported aboard in 1965, just before a deployment to Vietnam, where the ship provided gunfire support and plane guarding. Bill Dudding also served during this Vietnam deployment, forming lasting friendships.
The ship's final chapter came in 1968 when it ran aground off Rhodes, Greece. Arthur Gandy, a Gunner's Mate 2nd Class, stayed behind to remove ammunition and explosives. Paul Joyce, who left the ship in August 1967, expressed relief that no lives were lost in the incident. Armand Kulpa, Douglas Litts, Clyde Rohrbaugh, Forrest Lohr, and Don Hoadley all shared their experiences of the grounding and subsequent sinking. Hoadley, who was on temporary duty to Nuclear Power School, vividly remembered standing on the O-1 level in his skivvies and boondockers during the abandon ship order.
**Personal Reflections and Connections:** Many crew members expressed a desire to reconnect with shipmates and share memories. Henry Woolley sought information about a fellow sailor, John Bohannon. Doug Litts and others inquired about ship reunions. The guestbook entries also include heartfelt tributes from family members of deceased sailors, such as the grandchild of Edgar Bergeron, who fondly remembered his stories, and the family of John Pittman, who served as a captain of a twin 40mm gun.
These collective memories highlight the USS Bache's storied history, the bonds formed among its crew, and the enduring legacy of those who served aboard this distinguished vessel.
USS Bache DD-470: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Bache (DD-470) was a Fletcher-class destroyer that saw some serious action and upgrades during its time. Commissioned in 1942, it started with five 5-inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, and a mix of anti-aircraft weapons. As the war went on, the Bache got some tech boosts. Its radar and sonar systems were upgraded, making it better at spotting enemy subs and planes. The ship also got new fire control systems and more anti-aircraft guns, like the twin 40mm Bofors and 20mm Oerlikon cannons, which really upped its game.
The Bache wasn't just about the hardware; its missions evolved too. It was initially built for anti-submarine warfare, surface combat, and convoy escort duties. But it adapted to many roles during World War II and beyond. The Bache was part of key operations like the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the invasion of Okinawa. Its upgraded systems were a big help there. After the war, it kept busy as a training ship and supported Cold War operations, showing off its flexibility and lasting value to the Navy.
The USS Bache made a big impact on the US Navy. During World War II, it earned eight battle stars, proving its active and effective role in major naval battles. Its anti-submarine work was especially important, protecting Allied shipping lanes and ensuring safe passage for troops and supplies. The Bache also played a crucial role in major amphibious assaults, like Iwo Jima and Okinawa, providing essential fire support and anti-aircraft defense.
Even after the war, the Bache kept up its good work, adapting to the Cold War's strategic shifts. It took part in various missions, from patrolling the Mediterranean to supporting NATO exercises. Its involvement in these operations highlighted the need for a capable and ready fleet, always prepared to tackle new threats and protect national interests. The USS Bache's story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to duty, embodying the spirit of the US Navy.
USS Bache DD-470: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Bache (DD-470) was a remarkable ship with a storied history in the United States Navy. Commissioned in November 1942, this Fletcher-class destroyer quickly found itself in the thick of World War II. It was sent to the Pacific Theater, where it played a vital role in operations like the Solomon Islands campaign. During the Battle of Guadalcanal, the Bache provided crucial anti-aircraft defense and shore bombardment, helping the Allies gain a foothold. Its speed and firepower made it a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for its continued involvement in key battles throughout the war.
As the war went on, the USS Bache showed its versatility and toughness. It took part in the Aleutian Islands campaign, helping to secure these remote but strategically important islands from Japanese forces. The destroyer also saw action in the Marianas and Palau Islands campaigns, offering naval gunfire support and screening for larger ships. One of its standout moments came during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944, one of the largest naval battles ever. The Bache played a critical role, protecting the invasion fleet from surface and air threats, ensuring the successful landing of Allied troops in the Philippines.
After World War II, the USS Bache continued to serve during the early Cold War years. It was recommissioned in 1951 and joined the Atlantic Fleet. The ship took part in various NATO exercises and was deployed to the Mediterranean with the United States Sixth Fleet. These missions were key in showcasing American naval strength and maintaining stability in a region fraught with Cold War tensions. The Bache's presence highlighted the importance of naval readiness and the ability to project power globally.
Throughout its service, the USS Bache earned numerous awards and commendations, reflecting its distinguished performance and the valor of its crew. The ship was awarded five battle stars for its World War II service, a testament to its involvement in some of the most intense and decisive battles of the conflict. Additionally, the Bache received the Navy Unit Commendation for its exceptional performance during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. These honors not only recognize the ship's contributions to key military operations but also highlight the bravery and dedication of the men who served aboard her. The legacy of the USS Bache (DD-470) is one of steadfast service and unwavering commitment to duty, embodying the spirit and resilience of the United States Navy.
USS Bache DD-470 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Fletcher Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | November 14, 1942 |
| Displacement | 2,924 tons |
| Length | 377 feet |
| Beam | 40 feet |
| Draft | 13.8 feet |
| Speed | 38 knots |
| Complement | 9 Officers 264 Enlisted |