The USS Benham DD-796 belonged to the United States Navy's Fletcher class destroyers. It was named in honor of Rear Admiral Andrew E. K. Benham, an officer. The Bethlehem Steel Company's Staten Island shipyard constructed this ship, starting the keel on July 30, 1943 and launching it on December 30, 1943. Mrs. A. E. K. Benham, the widow of Rear Admiral Benham, sponsored the launch ceremony. On March 20, 1944, Commander J.B Dimmick took command when the USS Benham was commissioned.
Rear Admiral Andrew E.K. Benham made contributions, to the US Navy and held a prominent position within its ranks. He demonstrated bravery and leadership during his service in the American Civil War. He earned recognition for his expertise and unwavering commitment to duty throughout his career which spanned multiple decades. The decision to name a destroyer after him as USS Benham served as a testament to his legacy in the US Navy.
The Fletcher class destroyers were renowned for their speed, firepower, and versatility during World War II. These destroyers formed the class of destroyer vessels ordered by the US Navy during that time period. It played a vital role as the backbone of their destroyer fleet throughout the war. The USS Benham, similar to ships in its class, was designed with roles in mind, including combating submarines defending against aircraft attacks and engaging in surface battles.
The USS Benham possessed a range of features that made it a formidable presence during its era. It was equipped with five 5 inch guns, ten 40 mm aircraft guns, seven 20 mm anti aircraft guns and ten 21 inch torpedo tubes. Additionally, the ship boasted a speed of 38 knots and could cover a distance of 6,500 nautical miles at a speed of 15 knots. These characteristics endowed the USS Benham with versatility and power to handle combat scenarios.
Throughout World War II, the USS Benham DD-796 left a lasting impact on the US Navy through its participation in campaigns such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the Battle of Okinawa, and operations in the Philippine Sea. The ships remarkable service earned it seven battle stars during the war. The USS Benham's impressive record exemplifies the courage, dedication, and sacrifices made by its crew.
The commissioning ceremony of the USS Benham DD-796 marked a milestone in US Navy history. On March 20, 1944, Commander J.B. Dimmick assumed command during this occasion. The commissioning of a vessel is a standing tradition that signifies the ships entry into active service. It symbolizes the ship and its crews preparedness to fulfill their duties and responsibilities in safeguarding the nation. The USS Benham, with its features and dedicated crew, was an addition to the US Navy's fleet.
The USS Benham DD-796; A Legacy of Strength
The USS Benham DD-796 belonged to the Fletcher class destroyer category, renowned for its structure and cutting edge technology. The ship measured 376 feet in length had a beam of 39 feet and a draft of 17 feet. Its power came from two Westinghouse geared steam turbines, enabling it to reach speeds up to 38 knots and travel a range of 6,500 miles at 15 knots. With a displacement of 2,050 tons and a complement of 273 officers and enlisted personnel, it was designed to withstand combat situations.
Technologically speaking, the USS Benham boasted state of the art radar and sonar systems for its era. The radar system facilitated surface search activities as fire control operations, while the sonar system played an essential role in anti submarine warfare. Furthermore, advanced communication systems allowed coordination with ships and aircraft. The propulsion system of the ship was highly advanced, relying on pressure heated boilers to generate power for its turbines.
The USS Benham had an arsenal designed for combat scenarios. It was equipped with five 5 inch/38 caliber guns that served both anti surface warfare purposes. These guns were arranged in two mounts and one single mount, capable of firing a 55 pound shell up to a distance of 9 miles. Additionally, the ship carried ten 21 inch torpedo tubes arranged in two mounts, which could effectively sink the largest enemy vessels.
To defend against threats, the ship boasted four 40mm Bofors aircraft guns and seven 20mm Oerlikon anti aircraft guns. These weapons were specifically designed to safeguard the ship from enemy aircraft and could unleash a barrage of rounds per minute. Furthermore, the USS Benham also featured six depth charge projectors and two depth charge tracks, intended for submarine warfare operations.
The USS Benham was an opponent in battles thanks to its impressive array of weapons.
Upgrades, Mission Capabilities and Contribution to the Fleet
Over time, the USS Benham DD-796 underwent upgrades to improve its combat capabilities and operational efficiency. Initially armed with five 5 inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21 inch torpedo tubes, and various anti aircraft weaponry, the ship later received radar systems, sonar equipment, and enhanced anti submarine warfare capabilities. These improvements significantly boosted the ships ability to detect and track enemy submarines and surface vessels. Additionally, the inclusion of the RUR 5 ASROC anti submarine missile system further strengthened its capabilities, solidifying its position as a presence in the fleet.
The USS Benham DD-796 possessed mission capabilities that played a role in US Navy operations. Designed for tasks such as escorting ships, conducting anti submarine warfare operations, and providing naval gunfire support. Its advanced radar and sonar systems allowed it to effectively identify and monitor enemy vessels. Furthermore, its substantial armament enabled it to engage with threats. The ships high speed and maneuverability also made it an ideal platform for reconnaissance missions and patrols.
The USS Benham DD-796 played a role in the US Navy's fleet, making contributions throughout its service. Its advanced capabilities and versatility proved invaluable during both World War II and the Korean War. In World War II, the ship actively participated in operations like the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle of Okinawa, providing support to allied forces. During the Korean War, it played a role in enforcing a blockade on North Korea, disrupting enemy supply lines and offering fire support to ground troops.
To summarize, the USS Benham DD-796 held importance within the US Navy's fleet. Its constant upgrades enhanced its combat capabilities, enabling it to carry out its mission responsibilities. The ships contributions were significant as it played a part in major conflicts. The USS Benham DD-796 exemplifies the adaptability, versatility, and resilience of vessels within the US Navy, while continuing to inspire their design and operation.
Words of Sailors Aboard the USS Benham DD-796
Fernando B. Byrne
Years Served: 1962-1963, 1965, 1968-1969
"The ship was transferred to the Peruvian Navy by the end of 1960 I believe. I graduated at end 1961 and was assigned to the BAP Villar D71 (previously USS Benham DD-796) where I served in the engineering department in 3 different ocassions. Lucky me!! Any one met the Peruvian Crew who received the ship?"
Steve Dengler
Years Served: Relative (William Gobble)
'Just wanted to let you know that Bill Gobble has been gone now for 10 and a half years. He died from advanced colon cancer. He always looked forward to your reunions. He was a Tin Can Sailor To The End Fair winds and following seas to you all. Steve Dengler, US Navy, 1969-1973"
P.S. Bill was my father in law.
Frederick Charles Scott
Years Served: Dad/1951
"Gentlemen Looking to see if anyone remembered my Dad, Charles Scott from Iowa. Would appreciate any info you might have. Dad passed in 1993 on Veterans day of lung cancer. Didn't talk much about his Navy days but would love to hear from any of you so I could pass on his experiences on the Benham to my children. Thanks"
Bob McRoberts/Jim Carnes
Years Served: Early 50s
"Anybody please answer me back. Jim Carnes is a good buddy of mine, who served on this ship. Iserved on the USS Montrose APA 212. Jim doesnt have a computer.Thanks, Bob"
Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards and Commendations
Throughout its years of service, the USS Benham DD-796 emerged as a participant in significant conflicts. After being commissioned in 1943, it was deployed to serve in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The USS Benham played a role in significant operations, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which was the largest naval battle of World War II. It also provided support during the pivotal battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa in the Pacific campaign.After the war, the USS Benham remained a part of the US Navy's fleet. It was deployed to the Korean War, where it supported gunfire and acted as a ship for Task Force 77 aircraft carriers. Additionally, it served as a deterrent against aggression during the Cold War by patrolling the waters of the Western Pacific.
The exceptional service of USS Benham DD-796 earned it awards and commendations. Throughout World War II, it received eight battle stars for its participation in battles and two battle stars for its role in the Korean War. Moreover, it was honored with the Navy Occupation Service Medal for its war service in Asia.
Even though it was decommissioned in 1960, USS Benham DD-796's legacy continues to endure. Its involvement in some of the conflicts of the 20th century stands as a testament to its crews bravery and unwavering dedication. The USS Benham DD-796 has been recognized with awards, which highlights its significant contribution to the operations of the US Navy. This naval vessel serves as a symbol of the United States dedication, to upholding peace and security.
USS Benham DD-796 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Fletcher Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | December 20, 1943 |
| Displacement | 2,924 tons |
| Length | 377 feet |
| Beam | 40 feet |
| Draft | 13.8 feet |
| Speed | 38 knots |
| Complement | 9 Officers 264 Enlisted |