USS Des Moines CA-134
The USS Des Moines (CA-134) was a heavy cruiser in the United States Navy, built during the closing years of World War II. Her keel was laid on May 28, 1945, at the Bethlehem Steel Company's Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts. Although the war ended before she was finished, the ship was launched on September 27, 1946, and officially commissioned on November 16, 1948. The USS Des Moines was a marvel of naval engineering, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and design ideas developed during the war.
Named after Iowa's capital city, the USS Des Moines carried the spirit of a place known for its hard work and resilience. The name "Des Moines" honored Iowa's contributions to the war effort and symbolized the strength of the American Midwest. Naming ships after cities and states helped build pride and a connection between the Navy and the American people.
One standout feature of the USS Des Moines was her main battery of nine 8-inch/55 caliber guns. These were the first fully automatic guns of their kind, allowing for a faster rate of fire than earlier heavy cruisers. This made the Des Moines class the most powerful heavy cruisers ever built, delivering firepower with unmatched speed and precision. The ship also boasted a range of anti-aircraft weapons, radar systems, and advanced fire control systems, making her a formidable opponent in both surface and air battles.
The USS Des Moines left a lasting mark on the US Navy, representing the peak of heavy cruiser design and setting a standard for future naval ships. Her advanced weaponry and systems influenced the development of later cruisers and destroyers. During the early Cold War, her service highlighted the need for a strong, technologically advanced navy. The USS Des Moines played a key role in various naval exercises and operations, demonstrating the US Navy's capabilities to allies and potential foes alike.
As the lead ship of the Des Moines class, she was joined by the USS Salem (CA-139) and the USS Newport News (CA-148). These ships were primarily designed for surface warfare, with a secondary role in anti-aircraft defense. The Des Moines class aimed to replace older heavy cruisers and counter the growing Soviet naval threat during the early Cold War. Built with a focus on firepower, protection, and speed, they were versatile assets in many naval operations.
Commissioned on November 16, 1948, the USS Des Moines quickly became a vital part of the US Navy's fleet. Her commissioning marked the start of a distinguished career that lasted nearly two decades. Throughout her service, the USS Des Moines took part in numerous training exercises, goodwill visits, and operational deployments, including a significant presence in the Mediterranean Sea with the US Sixth Fleet. Her presence in these strategic waters underscored the United States' commitment to maintaining stability and projecting power in key regions worldwide.
USS Des Moines CA-134: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Des Moines (CA-134) was a heavy cruiser in the United States Navy, showcasing the peak of cruiser design in the mid-20th century. Launched in 1946, she was the lead ship of the Des Moines-class, known for its cutting-edge engineering and solid build. Her hull was crafted to endure significant damage, measuring 716 feet in length and 76 feet in beam, offering stability and room for her advanced systems. With a displacement of about 20,000 tons when fully loaded, she was among the heaviest cruisers of her era. The superstructure combined steel and aluminum for optimal strength and weight, and she was powered by four steam turbines, reaching speeds up to 33 knots.
Technologically, the USS Des Moines was a trailblazer, featuring innovations that set her apart. Her automatic 8-inch/55 caliber Mark 16 guns were groundbreaking, being the first of their kind on a cruiser. These guns could fire up to 10 rounds per minute per barrel, an impressive feat for such large artillery. She also boasted advanced radar and fire-control systems, like the Mark 37 Gun Fire Control System, enhancing targeting accuracy and response times. These technologies made the USS Des Moines a formidable force, capable of delivering rapid and precise firepower.
The armament of the USS Des Moines was extensive and powerful, designed to tackle various threats from surface ships to aircraft. Her primary armament included nine 8-inch/55 caliber guns in three triple turrets, two forward and one aft. These were supported by twelve 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, effective against both surface and aerial targets. Additionally, she was armed with twenty-four 3-inch/50 caliber guns and numerous 20mm Oerlikon cannons. This wide array of weaponry ensured she could defend against multiple threats simultaneously, maintaining high operational readiness.
The USS Des Moines also featured advanced electronic warfare and countermeasures systems, crucial for her defense. She was equipped with the latest radar and sonar systems of the time, including the SPS-6 air search radar and the SPS-8 height-finding radar, providing comprehensive situational awareness. These systems were complemented by electronic countermeasure (ECM) equipment to detect and jam enemy radar and communications. This integration allowed the USS Des Moines to operate effectively in various combat scenarios, from open-ocean engagements to coastal bombardments. Her robust structure, advanced technology, and formidable armament made her a key asset in the U.S. Navy's post-World War II fleet.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Des Moines (CA-134), affectionately known as the "Daisy Mae," holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous heartfelt memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span from its commissioning in 1948 to its decommissioning and eventual scrapping, painting a vivid picture of life aboard this storied heavy cruiser.
John Alston, who served as a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FTG2) in 1958, recalls his first ship fondly, particularly his duty station at Sky1, the Mk37 director above the bridge. Similarly, Jerry Bogart, a Seaman in 1959, reminisces about his varied roles, from the 7th division to the boat division, and finally to the fox division, where he operated the 3-inch 50 anti-aircraft batteries under the guidance of FT1 class Buck Young.
Nick Briglia, a Machinist's Mate Second Class (MM2) in 1958, describes his two years aboard the "Daisy Mae" as unforgettable, a sentiment echoed by many others. Wilbur Chretien, a Radioman Seaman (RMSN) in 1958, shares that it was his first ship, and although his time was brief, it left a lasting impression. Bob Clark, a Seaman (SN) in 1958, fondly remembers playing rhythm guitar in the ship's band, "TRA-VELS," and expresses a desire to reconnect with his bandmates.
Charlie Conklin, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) from 1952 to 1954, considers the "Daisy Mae" his ship, despite transferring to the COMCRUDIV SIX Flag. Theodore Dorian, an Apprentice Seaman (AS) in 1948, was part of the pre-commissioning crew and recalls the pride of bringing the ship to Boston for its commissioning. Robert Hanes, a Seaman (SN) in 1960, worked in Flag Plot and credits QM3 Santos for his guidance, which helped him achieve a 20-year career culminating as a Chief Warrant Officer.
Desmond Mc Grann, an Engineman Second Class (EN2) in 1950, remembers the ship and his shipmates with daily thoughts and prayers. Allen Myers, a Storekeeper Third Class (SK3) in 1958, also recalls his time with the "TRA-VELS" band and the great times they had. Ralph Nix, a Seaman (SN) in 1956, is on a quest to reconnect with an old friend, Dale Renz, highlighting the enduring bonds formed aboard the ship.
John Jerge, who served in 1952, laments the failed effort to bring the "Daisy Mae" to Milwaukee and expresses pride in his service. John Gunderson, whose service dates are unspecified, simply states that he had good times aboard the gunship. Ron Hovis, who served in 1954, is particularly passionate about preserving the ship's legacy, advocating for the relocation of the ship's bell to the USS Salem Museum. He also pays tribute to the late Melvin Pritchard, a Quartermaster Chief (QMC), who left a lasting impact on his life.
Ralph Glenn, who witnessed the ship being scrapped in Brownsville, TX, describes the experience as akin to watching a friend die. Anthony Meli, who served in 1958, treasures the priceless friendships and memories made aboard the ship. Paul Ramirez, who served from 1959 to 1961, fondly recalls his role as a barber, cutting hair for officers and fellow sailors, and cherishes the camaraderie he experienced.
These memories collectively highlight the USS Des Moines (CA-134) as more than just a naval vessel; it was a formative experience, a community, and a source of lifelong friendships and cherished memories for those who served aboard her.
USS Des Moines CA-134: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Des Moines (CA-134) was a remarkable ship, reflecting the changing needs and tech of the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1948, she was the first of her class and featured groundbreaking fully automatic 8-inch/55 caliber gun turrets. These turrets were a game-changer, offering a faster rate of fire and better accuracy. Over time, she got upgrades like improved radar and fire control systems, keeping her sharp and ready for any challenge. These enhancements made sure the Des Moines stayed a powerful force, adapting to new threats and missions.
The Des Moines was a versatile powerhouse in the Navy's lineup. Built mainly for surface warfare, her mighty 8-inch guns could unleash powerful bombardments on both sea and land targets. This made her invaluable for shore bombardment during amphibious assaults, giving crucial support to ground troops. She also had anti-aircraft guns and advanced radar, making her a strong anti-aircraft platform. Her speed and agility let her take on many roles, from escorting aircraft carriers to patrolling contested waters, boosting the Navy's readiness.
During the early Cold War, the USS Des Moines was a key player in the U.S. Navy's fleet. As tensions with the Soviet Union rose, she was often sent to strategic spots worldwide. Her presence was a strong deterrent, showing off American naval strength and tech. She took part in many NATO exercises, working seamlessly with allied navies and strengthening security ties. The Des Moines also went on goodwill missions, visiting ports globally and building diplomatic bridges. These missions highlighted her role not just as a combat ship, but as a tool of U.S. foreign policy.
The USS Des Moines (CA-134) was a shining example of the Navy's drive to keep a cutting-edge and flexible fleet. With ongoing upgrades, she stayed relevant and ready for various missions, from surface warfare to anti-aircraft defense and shore bombardment. Her impact was wide-ranging, covering combat and diplomacy. As a symbol of American naval power during a pivotal time, the Des Moines showed the strategic importance of heavy cruisers in maintaining maritime dominance and supporting national security.
USS Des Moines CA-134: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Des Moines (CA-134) had an impressive service life, filled with important deployments and missions. Commissioned in 1948, this heavy cruiser was a powerhouse in the Atlantic Fleet. It kicked off its career with training exercises and goodwill visits to European ports. In 1950, the ship made its first big splash in the Mediterranean with the Sixth Fleet. This was just the start of many Mediterranean tours, where the Des Moines stood as a strong symbol of American naval might during the tense early Cold War years.
Though the USS Des Moines didn't see direct combat in the Korean War, it played a vital support role. Its presence in the Mediterranean was key to maintaining stability, freeing up other US Navy forces for action in Korea. With its advanced firepower and radar, the Des Moines was a formidable force, ready to provide naval gunfire support or act as a command ship if needed. This period highlighted the importance of a strong naval presence across different regions, even when not directly in the fight.
The ship earned several awards, showcasing its significant contributions. It received the Navy Occupation Service Medal for its post-World War II duties in Europe and the National Defense Service Medal for its service during the Korean War era. These honors underscored the ship's versatility and readiness to tackle global challenges, from post-war stabilization to Cold War deterrence.
In its later years, the USS Des Moines continued to shine in NATO exercises and multinational operations, proving itself as a reliable and capable vessel. Its final deployment was in 1961, after which it was decommissioned and placed in reserve. Despite a relatively short active service life, the Des Moines left a lasting legacy. It demonstrated the strategic value of heavy cruisers in mid-20th century naval warfare, with its numerous deployments and commendable service earning it a special place in US Navy history.
USS Des Moines CA-134 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Des Moines Class Heavy Cruiser |
| Commissioned | November 16, 1948 |
| Displacement | 17,000 tons |
| Length | 716.6 feet |
| Beam | 76.4 feet |
| Draft | 26 feet |
| Speed | 33 knots |
| Complement | 1,799 |