USS Edson DD-946
The USS Edson (DD-946) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer built for the U.S. Navy during the Cold War. Her keel was laid on December 3, 1956, at Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine, a shipyard famous for crafting naval vessels. She was launched on January 4, 1958, and commissioned on November 7, 1958. The Edson was part of a push to modernize the Navy with advanced warships ready to tackle new maritime threats.
Named after Major General Merritt "Red Mike" Edson, a celebrated U.S. Marine Corps officer, the ship honored his bravery and leadership. General Edson, a Medal of Honor recipient, was known for his heroics during the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II. Naming the destroyer after him was a nod to his remarkable service and spirit.
The USS Edson boasted cutting-edge armament and radar systems for her time. She carried three 5-inch/54 caliber Mark 42 guns, ASW torpedoes, and anti-aircraft weapons. Her radar and sonar tech were top-notch, boosting her ability to detect and track enemy ships and aircraft. These features made her a powerful tool in the Navy's arsenal, ready for missions ranging from surface warfare to anti-submarine operations.
The Edson's legacy in the Navy is rich with significant operations and contributions to naval tactics. She served in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Pacific, playing a key role in the Vietnam War by providing naval gunfire support and participating in operations like Sea Dragon. Her performance showcased the strength of the Forrest Sherman-class destroyers and helped shape modern naval strategies.
As part of the Forrest Sherman class, the Edson was one of 18 destroyers designed to replace older World War II-era ships. These destroyers were built for versatility, speed, and firepower, making them ideal for escorting carriers, conducting ASW, and providing gunfire support. Their design reflected lessons from past conflicts, resulting in a robust class ready for Cold War challenges.
The USS Edson's commissioning marked the start of a distinguished career spanning over three decades. As a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, she was at the forefront of naval innovation, playing a crucial role in maintaining U.S. maritime dominance during the Cold War. Her advanced capabilities and adaptability ensured her effectiveness throughout her service. The Edson's contributions and legacy are fondly remembered by her crew and naval historians alike.
USS Edson DD-946: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Edson (DD-946) is a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, celebrated for its sturdy design and adaptability. Launched in 1958, this ship stretches 418 feet long, with a beam of 45 feet, and displaces about 4,050 tons when fully loaded. Built with high-tensile steel, it’s tough and ready for all kinds of sea conditions. Its superstructure was ahead of its time, designed to reduce radar visibility. The ship's layout includes a roomy deck, various compartments for the crew and gear, and a bridge packed with advanced navigation and communication systems.
Technologically, the USS Edson was cutting-edge for its time. It ran on four Foster Wheeler boilers and two General Electric steam turbines, cranking out 70,000 shaft horsepower. This power let it zip along at speeds up to 32.5 knots. The destroyer boasted advanced radar and sonar systems, like the AN/SPS-10 surface search radar and the AN/SQS-23 sonar, boosting its prowess in both surface and anti-submarine warfare. These tech features made the USS Edson a force to be reckoned with, ready for anything from escort missions to direct combat.
When it comes to armament, the USS Edson was well-equipped for its multi-mission role. Its main firepower came from three 5-inch/54 caliber Mark 42 guns, perfect for both anti-aircraft and surface fire support. These were backed up by two twin-mounted 3-inch/50 caliber anti-aircraft guns, adding extra defense against air threats. For anti-submarine warfare, it had six 12.75-inch Mark 32 torpedo tubes, allowing for quick and precise launches, making it a formidable adversary to enemy submarines.
The ship's weaponry was further boosted by an ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher, giving it long-range anti-submarine capabilities. This system could deliver a torpedo or depth charge to far-off underwater targets, greatly extending its reach. Additionally, the USS Edson was fitted with two Hedgehog anti-submarine mortar systems, which fired a pattern of small bombs that exploded on contact with a submarine. This mix of advanced weaponry and technology ensured the USS Edson was ready to tackle a variety of threats, maintaining its status as a vital part of the US Navy's fleet during its active years.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Edson (DD-946) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous guestbook posts that recount their experiences aboard the ship. These memories span several decades, from the late 1950s to the late 1980s, and reflect a wide range of emotions, from camaraderie and adventure to the challenges of naval life.
Early Years and Vietnam Era: Billy Bailey, who served as a SOG2 in 1959, recalls his initial nervousness upon boarding the Edson, which soon became a home to him. Similarly, Anthony Clemmons, a FTG2 in 1959, fondly remembers the ship and its crew, calling it the best ship and shipmates in the Navy. The early years of the Edson were marked by significant events, including the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964, as recounted by Terry Smith (STG2, 1964) and Roger Clark (MM3, 1963). These events were pivotal in the escalation of the Vietnam War, and the Edson played a crucial role during this period.
Memorable Cruises and Operations: The Edson's deployments were filled with memorable cruises and operations. Brent Frey (BT3, 1971) reminisces about two WestPac cruises and the great friends he made. Alan Meredith (BM/E-3, 1974) recalls the "Whoopass cruise" in 1971 and the Paris Peace Talks cruise in 1973, describing them as a mix of liberty and nightmares. The ship's involvement in significant operations like Operation Eagle Pull and Operation Frequent Wind in 1975 is highlighted by James Stanford (BT-3, 1973) and Leonard Czerwinski (MM3, 1975).
Life Aboard the Edson: Life aboard the Edson was a blend of hard work, camaraderie, and unique experiences. John Banks (CWO2, 1979) and Marc Graveline (QM2, 1979) recall their time on the ship with fondness, mentioning the various ports of call and the unforgettable ride from the west coast to Newport, RI. The ship's engineering challenges, such as the fire in the aft engine room in 1974, are vividly remembered by Pj Martin (BM3, 1974) and Leonard Czerwinski (MM3, 1975).
Friendships and Reunions: The bonds formed aboard the Edson have stood the test of time. Many crew members express a desire to reconnect with their shipmates. Jack Brushwein (SN, 1962) and John Bedford (SOG3, 1960) mention the joy of reunions and the lasting friendships they have maintained. The sense of brotherhood is echoed by numerous others, including Billy Dale (SN, 1977) and Fred Wynn (BMSN, 1983), who are still looking to reconnect with their old friends.
Challenges and Triumphs: The Edson's crew faced numerous challenges, from the rigors of naval operations to personal hardships. Neno Russo (RMSN, 1966) shares the bittersweet memories of the WestPac cruise and the personal struggles he faced upon returning home. Despite these challenges, the crew's resilience and dedication shine through. Dennis Hall (GMG2, 1968) and Gary Helfrich (MM2, 1968) speak highly of their time on the Edson, emphasizing the ship's role in shaping their naval careers.
Legacy and Reflection: The legacy of the USS Edson is preserved through the memories of its crew. Many former sailors, like Michael Caldwell (MMFN, 1980) and Robert Charles (SK2, 1979), reflect on their time aboard with pride and nostalgia. The ship's role as a training vessel and its eventual decommissioning are also noted by crew members like Ken Dalle (RM2, 1986) and Warren Smith (HM-2, 1986).
In summary, the USS Edson (DD-946) was more than just a naval destroyer; it was a home, a place of learning, and a crucible of lifelong friendships. The memories shared by its crew members paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, filled with adventure, camaraderie, and a deep sense of pride in their service.
USS Edson DD-946: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Edson (DD-946) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer that saw some impressive upgrades during her time in service. She was commissioned in 1958, and back then, she was equipped with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems. Her armament included 5-inch/54 caliber guns and anti-submarine torpedoes. But as technology marched on, so did the need for updates. In the early 1970s, Edson got the Naval Tactical Data System (NTDS), which was a game-changer. It let her process and share tactical info in real-time, boosting her situational awareness and combat skills.
Edson didn't just get electronic upgrades. Her weaponry and propulsion systems saw improvements too. The addition of the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher was a big deal for her anti-submarine warfare capabilities, letting her tackle underwater threats from farther away. Her propulsion system got an overhaul to make her more fuel-efficient and extend her operational range. These changes turned Edson into a powerful multi-mission platform, ready to tackle a variety of maritime challenges.
The missions Edson took on were as varied as they were vital. She was primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare, a crucial role during the Cold War when Soviet subs were a real threat. But she was versatile, with anti-aircraft and surface warfare capabilities that made her a key player in fleet defense. She could protect carrier strike groups and other important units from aerial and surface threats. Edson also took part in many naval exercises and operations, including the Vietnam War, where she provided naval gunfire support and conducted search and rescue missions. She was always ready for whatever came her way.
Edson's contributions to the U.S. Navy were significant and long-lasting. She showed off American naval power and supported allied forces in various operations. Her ability to adapt to new tech and mission demands over nearly three decades is a testament to her solid design and the skill of her crew. Even after she was decommissioned in 1988, Edson's legacy continues. She's now a museum ship in Bay City, Michigan, teaching the public about naval history and the sacrifices of those who served on her. Through her upgrades, missions, and dedicated service, the USS Edson embodied the resilience and versatility that define the U.S. Navy.
USS Edson DD-946: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Edson (DD-946), a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, was a remarkable ship with a rich history. Commissioned in 1958, she was initially equipped with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems for her time. Her armament included 5-inch/54 caliber guns, anti-submarine torpedoes, and anti-aircraft missiles. But as technology advanced, so did the need for upgrades. In the early 1970s, Edson received the Naval Tactical Data System (NTDS), which greatly improved her ability to process and share tactical information in real-time. This upgrade boosted her situational awareness and combat effectiveness.
Edson didn't just get electronic upgrades; her weaponry and propulsion systems saw improvements too. The addition of the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher enhanced her anti-submarine warfare capabilities, allowing her to tackle underwater threats from a distance. Her propulsion system was overhauled to improve fuel efficiency and operational range, enabling her to stay on station longer and respond more effectively to threats. These upgrades turned Edson into a formidable multi-mission platform, ready to face a variety of maritime challenges.
The USS Edson's mission capabilities were diverse and crucial to the U.S. Navy's effectiveness. Primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare, she excelled at detecting and neutralizing submarine threats, a vital role during the Cold War. Her anti-aircraft and surface warfare capabilities made her a versatile asset in fleet defense, protecting carrier strike groups and other high-value units. Edson also participated in numerous naval exercises and operations, including the Vietnam War, where she provided naval gunfire support and conducted search and rescue missions, showcasing her adaptability and readiness.
The contributions of the USS Edson to the U.S. Navy were significant and lasting. Her presence in various operations demonstrated American naval power and provided critical support to allies. Edson's ability to adapt to new technologies and mission requirements over nearly three decades is a testament to her robust design and the skill of her crew. Even after her decommissioning in 1988, Edson's legacy continues as a museum ship in Bay City, Michigan, educating the public about naval history and the sacrifices of those who served aboard her. Through her upgrades, mission capabilities, and steadfast service, the USS Edson exemplified the resilience and versatility that are hallmarks of the U.S. Navy.
USS Edson DD-946 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Forrest Sherman Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | April 3, 1959 |
| Displacement | 4,619 tons |
| Length | 418 feet |
| Beam | 44.9 feet |
| Draft | 22 feet |
| Speed | 33 knots |
| Complement | 324 |