USS Eugene A Greene DD-711
The USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) was a Gearing-class destroyer built for the U.S. Navy during the tail end of World War II. Her keel was laid down on May 17, 1944, at the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Kearny, New Jersey. She was launched on November 18, 1944, and officially commissioned on May 8, 1945. These destroyers were part of a push to strengthen the Navy with versatile ships that could handle everything from anti-submarine warfare to escort missions.
The ship was named after Lieutenant (junior grade) Eugene A. Greene, a naval aviator who received the Navy Cross posthumously for his bravery at the Battle of Midway. Greene's plane was shot down during the battle, but his courage was a shining example of the heroism shown by many. Naming the destroyer after him was a tribute to his valor and a reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.
The USS Eugene A. Greene boasted impressive armament and cutting-edge radar and sonar systems for her time. She was armed with six 5-inch/38 caliber guns, twelve 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and eleven 20mm anti-aircraft guns. She also carried ten 21-inch torpedo tubes and depth charge projectors, making her a formidable force against both surface and underwater threats. The Gearing-class design featured improved fuel capacity and range, allowing the ship to operate effectively over long distances.
The legacy of the USS Eugene A. Greene is marked by her versatility and the many missions she undertook. She participated in anti-submarine warfare exercises, convoy escort duties, and naval gunfire support missions. Her adaptability and reliability made her a valuable asset, showcasing the effectiveness of the Gearing-class design. Her service record reflects the strategic shifts and technological advancements of the post-World War II era.
As a Gearing-class destroyer, the USS Eugene A. Greene was part of a class designed to meet the changing needs of naval warfare. The Gearing-class was an extension of the earlier Allen M. Sumner-class, with a longer hull for more fuel storage and better seakeeping. These destroyers were built for fleet protection, anti-submarine warfare, and support for amphibious operations. Known for their durability and effectiveness, they played a crucial role in the Navy's post-war fleet.
The commissioning of the USS Eugene A. Greene on May 8, 1945, marked the start of her active service, which lasted several decades. She was commissioned just as World War II was ending and quickly shifted to peacetime operations. Over the years, she underwent several modernizations to keep up with technological advancements and changing naval strategies. Her long service life and adaptability highlight the importance of Gearing-class destroyers in maintaining naval readiness and projecting power during the Cold War and beyond.
USS Eugene A Greene DD-711: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) was a Gearing-class destroyer, a class celebrated for its sturdy design and adaptability during the mid-20th century. At 390 feet long and 41 feet wide, it was a solid platform for various naval missions. Built with high-tensile steel, the ship was tough enough to handle combat's harsh conditions. Its superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, ensuring seamless coordination with other ships and command units. The ship's layout was smartly designed for both attack and defense, with compartments and bulkheads to contain damage and protect vital systems.
Technologically, the USS Eugene A. Greene was ahead of its time. It boasted advanced radar systems like the SPS-6 air search radar and the SG surface search radar, providing a clear picture of its surroundings. These radars were crucial for spotting enemy aircraft and ships, allowing the destroyer to react quickly to threats. The ship also had sonar technology, such as the QHB sonar, to detect and track submarines. This tech made the USS Eugene A. Greene a formidable force in anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare.
The ship's armament was all about delivering powerful offensive capabilities. It had six 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns in three twin turrets, capable of engaging both surface and air targets. This made it versatile and effective in both defense and attack. The destroyer also featured twelve 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and eleven 20mm Oerlikon cannons, providing extra layers of protection against enemy aircraft. These weapons were strategically placed to maximize coverage and firepower, ensuring the ship could defend itself from multiple directions.
When it came to weaponry, the USS Eugene A. Greene was also equipped with torpedoes and depth charges, boosting its anti-submarine warfare capabilities. It carried ten 21-inch torpedo tubes for launching Mark 15 torpedoes, designed to target enemy submarines and surface ships. Additionally, the destroyer had depth charge projectors and racks to deploy depth charges against submerged threats. This mix of torpedoes and depth charges made the USS Eugene A. Greene a versatile and effective platform for countering submarine threats, solidifying its role as a key asset in naval operations.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and numerous global adventures. The guestbook entries from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard the "Steamin' Greene," highlighting camaraderie, significant events, and personal milestones.
**Early Years and Cuban Blockade:** Kenneth Johnson recalls the ship's early voyages from Bayonne, NJ, down to Cuba and Texas. In 1962, Albert Cherry served as a Gunner's Mate during the Cuban blockade, a tense period that also saw the ship undergoing a FRAM (Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization) in Boston. Earl Brown, who served from 1962 to 1964, vividly remembers being part of a special deployment to Havana Harbor during the Cuban Missile Crisis, an event not widely documented but significant to those who experienced it.
**Mediterranean and Vietnam Cruises:** The ship's Mediterranean tours are fondly remembered by many. George Specker served during the early 1950s, making two tours through the Mediterranean. Richard Weisner recounts a 1966 voyage through the Panama Canal to the Tonkin Gulf during the Pueblo Incident, and a subsequent journey through the Suez Canal. The Vietnam War era brought intense experiences, with sailors like John Fleming and Larry Reed recalling their time in the conflict, including plane guard duties and repairs in various Asian ports.
**Adventures and Challenges:** The ship's adventures were not without challenges. Jim Walker and Bill Wester both recount the harrowing experience of running aground in Bandar Abbas, Iran, and the subsequent drydocking in Karachi, Pakistan. Despite these difficulties, the crew often found moments of levity and camaraderie. William Standard and his shipmates had memorable times in Antalya, Turkey, while Gene Mazzei's first sea experience involved searching for the lost USS Scorpion submarine during a hurricane.
**Camaraderie and Personal Growth:** The sense of brotherhood among the crew is a recurring theme. Alan Haunhorst and Michael Jackson, who served in 1970, speak highly of their shipmates in Main Control and the fun they had during Mediterranean and North Atlantic cruises. Paul Blackford fondly remembers the competitive spirit of the engineering crew, who prided themselves on being the fastest and even featured in commercials. Richard Salinas, who joined the ship at 17, reflects on the initial shock of Navy life but eventually retired in 1993, having grown significantly from his experiences.
**Memorable Events and Personal Achievements:** The ship's history is dotted with memorable events and personal achievements. John Roberts and R Farrell, both Radiomen, recall the extensive travels and the sense of fulfillment from serving on a "Tin Can." Joseph Sauls, who retired as a Senior Chief, and Charlie Deer, who went on to a successful career in the submarine service and later in Alaska, both attribute their growth to their time on the Greene. Earl Brown's promotion to BM3 and his unique experiences during the Cuban Crisis highlight the personal milestones achieved by many crew members.
**Reflections and Legacy:** The reflections of these sailors underscore the lasting impact of their service. Richard Dietz, who served as CO from 1969 to 1971, fondly remembers the "Greene Machine" band and the ship's various cruises. Walter White, diagnosed with asbestosis, still cherishes his time with the "B" Division. The ship's decommissioning in 1973 marked the end of an era, but the memories and bonds formed aboard the USS Eugene A. Greene continue to resonate with its former crew.
In summary, the guestbook entries of the USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) reveal a rich tapestry of experiences, from significant historical events to personal growth and lifelong friendships. The ship's legacy lives on through the vivid memories and heartfelt reflections of those who served aboard her.
USS Eugene A Greene DD-711: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) was a remarkable ship with a storied history. Commissioned in 1945, this Gearing-class destroyer was a powerhouse of its time. It came equipped with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems, along with a formidable array of anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons. In the 1950s, the ship underwent a major overhaul as part of the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program. This upgrade brought in new radar and sonar systems, boosted its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, and added the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher. These enhancements kept the ship effective and ready for action.
The USS Eugene A. Greene's mission capabilities grew alongside its technological upgrades. Originally focused on anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare, the ship's role expanded to include surface warfare and shore bombardment. The ASROC system and the DASH (Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter) were game-changers, allowing the ship to engage enemy submarines from greater distances. With torpedoes and depth charges on board, it was a versatile platform for various naval missions. Its radar and sonar systems were constantly updated, ensuring it could detect and track enemy vessels and aircraft effectively, providing crucial support to carrier strike groups and amphibious operations.
During its service, the USS Eugene A. Greene made significant contributions to the U.S. Navy's readiness and strategic goals. In the Cold War era, it was a vital part of the Atlantic Fleet, participating in numerous NATO exercises and patrols to counter the Soviet naval threat. Its advanced ASW capabilities were invaluable in tracking Soviet submarines in the North Atlantic. The ship also played a key role during the Cuban Missile Crisis, participating in the naval blockade that enforced the quarantine of Cuba. These operations highlighted the ship's versatility and reliability in high-stakes situations, solidifying its reputation as a crucial asset in the U.S. Navy's arsenal.
Beyond combat and strategic roles, the USS Eugene A. Greene also took part in humanitarian and peacetime missions. It engaged in goodwill visits and joint exercises with allied navies, promoting international cooperation and maritime security. Its presence in various theaters, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, demonstrated the U.S. Navy's global reach and commitment to peace and stability. The ship's crew, through their professionalism and dedication, ensured that the USS Eugene A. Greene remained a symbol of American naval power and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Gearing-class destroyers.
USS Eugene A Greene DD-711: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) had quite the journey, marked by deployments all over the world. Commissioned in 1945, she first set sail in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. There, she played a key role in post-World War II operations. In the late 1940s and 1950s, Eugene A. Greene took part in several NATO exercises. These missions showed the U.S.'s dedication to collective security during the early Cold War. She also made goodwill visits to European ports, strengthening diplomatic ties and showing off American naval strength.
During the Korean War, Eugene A. Greene was sent to the Pacific. She supported United Nations forces by screening aircraft carriers, conducting shore bombardments, and performing anti-submarine warfare. Her versatility and firepower were crucial in several engagements, helping ensure the success of naval operations in the region. The crew's skill and bravery earned them commendations during this critical time.
In the 1960s, Eugene A. Greene continued to shine, especially during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. She was part of the naval blockade that helped peacefully resolve the tense standoff between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Later, she was deployed to the Mediterranean and the Middle East, participating in operations to maintain stability in these volatile areas. Her presence deterred potential aggressors and reassured allies, highlighting the importance of naval power in international diplomacy.
Throughout her service, Eugene A. Greene received numerous awards and commendations, reflecting her outstanding performance and the dedication of her crew. Honors included the Navy Unit Commendation, the Korean Service Medal with multiple battle stars, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. These accolades recognized not just the ship's achievements but also the professionalism and valor of the men who served aboard her. The legacy of the USS Eugene A. Greene is a testament to the enduring spirit of the U.S. Navy and its commitment to defending freedom and promoting peace worldwide.
USS Eugene A Greene DD-711 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Gearing Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | June 8, 1945 |
| Displacement | 3,460 tons |
| Length | 391 feet |
| Beam | 41 feet |
| Draft | 14.3 feet |
| Speed | 37 knots |
| Complement | 11 Officers 325 Enlisted |