The USS George K. MacKenzie (DD 836) was a Gearing-class destroyer built for the United States Navy toward the end of World War II. Construction of the ship began on September 13, 1944, at the renowned Bath Iron Works shipyard in Maine, a facility known for producing high-quality naval vessels. The destroyer was launched on January 13, 1945, and officially commissioned into service on June 13, 1945. The addition of the George K. MacKenzie to the Navy’s fleet was part of an effort to bolster its capabilities with destroyers that could perform a wide range of operational tasks.
The ship was named in honor of Lieutenant Commander George K. MacKenzie, a courageous officer recognized for his valor during World War II. Lt. Cmdr. MacKenzie earned the Navy Cross for his heroic actions during the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands in October 1942, where he demonstrated exceptional bravery and leadership under fire. Naming the destroyer after him was a tribute to his sacrifice and an effort to inspire future generations of sailors through his legacy of courage, leadership, and dedication to duty.
The USS George K. MacKenzie was equipped with advanced weaponry and state-of-the-art radar and sonar systems for its time. The ship’s armament included six 5-inch/38 caliber guns, twelve 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and eleven 20mm anti-aircraft cannons, providing formidable firepower against both surface and aerial threats. In addition, the destroyer was equipped with torpedo tubes and depth charge projectors, making it highly effective in anti-submarine warfare. The Gearing-class design also featured an enhanced fuel capacity, allowing the ship to operate for extended periods without frequent refueling—an important factor for sustained naval operations.
Throughout its service, the USS George K. MacKenzie played a significant role in key military conflicts. During the Korean War, the ship provided vital naval gunfire support and protected aircraft carriers in combat zones. The ship also participated in the Vietnam War, where it conducted shore bombardments and served as a plane guard for aircraft carriers stationed at Yankee Station. The destroyer's contributions in both wars underscored the importance of reliable naval assets in executing strategic operations and supporting ground forces.
The USS George K. MacKenzie was one of the many ships in the Gearing class, a series designed to succeed the earlier Fletcher and Allen M. Sumner classes. The Gearing class was built to meet the increasing demands for greater endurance and enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities. These destroyers were equipped with larger fuel tanks to extend their operational range, and advanced sonar and radar systems to improve their ability to detect and engage enemy submarines and aircraft.
The commissioning of the USS George K. MacKenzie marked the beginning of a distinguished career that lasted over 30 years. Following its entry into service, the ship underwent extensive training to prepare its crew for combat. The ship participated in numerous exercises and deployments, testing its performance and refining its crew’s skills. The George K. MacKenzie earned a reputation for resilience, adaptability, and combat readiness, becoming a respected asset in the U.S. Navy's fleet.
In conclusion, the USS George K. MacKenzie embodied the core qualities of the Gearing-class destroyers: firepower, speed, endurance, and versatility. Its extensive service in both the Korean War and Vietnam War, along with its legacy of bravery and technological innovation, cemented its place in U.S. Navy history as a symbol of dedication and operational excellence.
USS George K. Mackenzie DD-836: A Technological Marvel of Naval Warfare
The USS George K. MacKenzie (DD 836) was a Gearing-class destroyer, renowned for its robust construction and versatility in mid-20th century naval operations. Measuring 390 feet in length and 41 feet in width, the ship was designed to handle a wide range of missions, from combat to support operations. Its hull, made from high-tensile steel, was specifically engineered to withstand the rigors of combat, ensuring both durability and resilience under challenging conditions.
The ship's superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, enabling seamless coordination with other naval vessels and command units. The layout of the ship, with its strategically arranged decks and compartments, was optimized for efficient crew performance and operational functionality.
In terms of technology, the USS George K. MacKenzie was outfitted with some of the most advanced systems of its time. Key components included sophisticated radar and sonar systems designed for the detection of enemy submarines and surface vessels. The AN/SPS-6 air-search radar and the AN/SQS-4 sonar provided exceptional situational awareness, enhancing the ship's combat readiness by allowing it to detect threats in the air and underwater. Additionally, the ship was equipped with Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) to jam or deceive enemy radar and communication systems, further bolstering its defensive capabilities.
The USS George K. MacKenzie was equipped with a versatile armament suite, capable of engaging a wide range of threats. Its primary weapons included six 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, mounted in three turrets, which could effectively target both surface ships and aircraft. To defend against aerial threats, the ship carried twelve 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and eleven 20mm Oerlikon cannons, which were crucial for intercepting enemy aircraft and smaller surface targets. This comprehensive array of firepower made the ship an effective force in both offensive and defensive combat situations.
In addition to its surface and air defense capabilities, the USS George K. MacKenzie was well-equipped for anti-submarine warfare (ASW). It was armed with two depth charge racks and six depth charge projectors, designed to detect and eliminate enemy submarines. Later, the ship was upgraded with ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launchers, significantly enhancing its ability to deliver depth charges over greater distances with greater precision. The ship also carried Mark 32 torpedo launchers, capable of deploying anti-submarine torpedoes to target submerged threats. These upgrades ensured that the George K. MacKenzie was fully prepared to handle underwater threats, showcasing its adaptability and strength as part of the U.S. Navy's fleet.
In summary, the USS George K. MacKenzie (DD 836) was a highly capable and well-rounded destroyer, equipped with cutting-edge technology and versatile weaponry for both offensive and defensive operations. Whether engaging in anti-air, surface, or anti-submarine warfare, the ship proved to be an invaluable asset to the U.S. Navy, capable of adapting to the evolving challenges of mid-20th century naval combat.
USS George K Mackenzie DD-836 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS George K. MacKenzie (DD-836) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous guestbook posts that recount their experiences and memories aboard the ship. These recollections span several decades, from the ship's commissioning in the mid-1940s to its decommissioning in the mid-1970s, and they paint a vivid picture of life aboard this storied destroyer.
Ray Coronado, who served as a Seaman (SN) in 1964, fondly remembers his time running the ship's Post Office for a year and a half. He describes the crew as the greatest he ever served with and the USS George K. MacKenzie as the best and first destroyer he was on. Similarly, Fred Kaeberlein, a Machinist's Mate Third Class (MM3) in 1964, recalls the ship as the first and only one he served on, highlighting the great sailors and many friends he made while steaming countless miles.
Ed Holsopple, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FTG2) in 1967, brings a somber note to the memories by recalling the loss of 74 sailors from the USS Frank E. Evans, urging others to ensure their names are remembered on the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Jim Jensen, another FTG2 who served in 1968, shares a more uplifting memory of attending his first reunion and reconnecting with some of the best sailors he ever knew.
James Mercer, a Signalman Third Class (SM3) in 1958, recounts two WestPac deployments, visits to Hong Kong, and a memorable dry dock period in Subic Bay, including an incident where the ship ran over a submarine. William Rice, a Sonar Technician Second Class (STG2) in 1963, who later retired as a Force Master Chief, declares the USS George K. MacKenzie as the best of the four destroyers he served on during his 30-year career.
James Roberts, another STG2 who served in 1969, reflects on the indelible impact the ship and its crew had on his life, with the names of his shipmates bringing back great memories. Gerald Sebastian, a Boiler Technician Fireman (BTFN) in 1951, currently very ill in Truman Vet Hospital, expresses a desire to hear from his old shipmates through his daughter, emphasizing the lasting bonds formed during his service.
James Ulysses, a Boiler Technician Third Class (BT3) in 1962, provides his permanent contact information, indicating a desire to stay connected with his fellow sailors. Stan Baggett, who served as a Gunner's Mate Second Class (GMG2) and later a Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CWO4) in 1971, praises the ship as the best he served on during the war, lamenting that political decisions hindered their efforts.
Gary Barnes, a Storekeeper Seaman (SKSN) in 1968, seeks to connect with others affected by Agent Orange diseases, while Thomas Bean, a Radarman Seaman (RDSN) in 1968, lists several shipmates he hopes are doing well. Raymond Boyd, a Signalman Third Class (SM3) in 1973, reminisces about the various overseas ports they visited, including the Philippines, Guam, Hong Kong, Singapore, Mombasa, Kenya, Ceylon (Sri Lanka), and Taipei, Taiwan.
John Briggs, an Interior Communications Electrician Third Class (IC3) in 1971, boasts about the ship's three deployments and three skippers, noting its distinction as the first to earn the coveted Gold Combat E since the USS Constitution. Paul Brunetta, who served as a Seaman (SN) and Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1965, seeks information on Agent Orange and recalls a supply run to Danang.
Sal Carlino, an original crew member and Seaman Second Class (SSC) in 1945, mentions the late actor Jack Weston as part of the crew. David Castelveter, a Signalman (E3/SM) in 1972, describes the USS George K. MacKenzie as the best ship in the Navy, listing numerous ports of call that made his service memorable.
Lawson Clark, a Machinist's Mate First Class (MM1) in 1959, expresses a desire to reconnect with his shipmates, while Jim Conklin, a Sonar Technician Third Class (STG3) in 1964, recalls being part of a crew swap program. H. Nolan Craog, a Fire Control Technician Third Class (FT3) in 1957, reminisces about his time in the Fox Division, mentioning several shipmates by name.
Dick Elslager, a Radarman Third Class (RD3) in 1963, seeks to connect with those who served during the ship's home port assignment in Yokosuka from 1964-1966. James Estoch, a Boatswain's Mate Third Class (BM3) in 1965, remembers the Forrestal Fire and inquires if any of his old shipmates are battling Parkinson's disease.
Randy Fleming, a Seaman awaiting Hospital Corps 'A' School in 1974, recounts his assignment to work in the sick bay after a special request. William Forman, a Seaman First Class in 1947, is represented by his grandson, who mentions his grandfather's interest in reconnecting with familiar faces.
James Ganus, a Boiler Technician Third Class (BT3) in 1968, recalls the fun times in Long Beach and the ship's relief of the USS Blue on station. James George, another BT3 in 1958, expresses a desire to hear from his shipmates, providing his contact information.
Richard Ray Goble, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FT2) in 1958, fondly remembers his time with the fire control, torpedomen, sonar gang, and IC gang, noting his marriage to a girl from Yokosuka. Joseph B. Hall, a Sonar Technician Second Class (STG2) in 1969, shares his career path and current residence in Manchester, WA.
William Hendrick, a Quartermaster Third Class (QM3) in 1966, reflects on his enjoyable years aboard the ship and wonders about the whereabouts of some of his shipmates. Chip Humphreys, a Boiler Technician Fireman (BTFN) in 1975, recounts his journey from an Electrician's Mate striker to a Boiler Technician, attributing his Southern accent and attitude to the change.
Bob Humston, a Radioman Seaman (RMSN) in 1959, is still searching for an RMSN Bob Myers and mentions his neighbor, a GM3 Leon Wagner. Armand Johnston, an Interior Communications Electrician Fireman (ICFN) in 1972, seeks to find a few shipmates, including Teresa Johnson from Memphis, TN.
Edward Kelly, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FT/2) in 1951, recalls his time as a deck hand and later as a Fire Control Technician, mentioning the ship's encounters with typhoons. Paul Lambert, a Midshipman Third Class (MIDN 3/C) in 1972, reminisces about his midshipman cruise and working with GMG2 Bags.
Bill Leque, a Seaman (SN) in 1971, describes his experience in Vietnam and the camaraderie of the crew, mentioning a favorite crew member named Boo Boo. Ron Martinez, a Sonar Technician Third Class (STG3) in 1965, reflects on his entire naval enlistment aboard the ship and the many places he visited.
Bruce McKee, a Seaman (SN) in 1971, highlights the ship's performance during the Vietnam gunline operations and the incredible efforts of the crew. Jack Mercer, a Signalman Third Class (SM3) in 1958, recalls the ship's contact with a submarine, dry dock periods, and station ship duties in Hong Kong.
Richard Morales, a Radioman Second Class (RM2) in 1963, salutes several officers and shipmates, thanking them for a lifetime of memories. Walter Nelson, a Radarman Seaman (RDSN) in 1961, mentions a memorable Corpsman named Smaragley and his ongoing book project.
Lee Ott, an Operations Specialist Second Class (OS2) in 1972, notes the lack of a Presidential Unit Citation for Operation End Sweep and his transfer to the USS Barbey due to his wife's pregnancy. Robert Quammen, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FT2) in 1958, recalls the ship's homeport changes and several shipmates.
Roberto Ramos, a Signalman Third Class (SM3) in 1973, reminisces about his first experiences as a Signalman and the rare port calls during a cruise to the Indian Ocean. Bowman Robert, an E2 in 1963, shares a personal story of meeting his future wife through a shipmate.
Tom Schramel, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FTG2) in 1971, praises the ship, crew, and Captain Anderson, calling it the best ship he ever served on. Gerald Sebastian, a BTFN in 1951, currently battling lung cancer, expresses a desire to hear from his shipmates through his daughter.
Michael Slater, a Machinist's Mate Third Class (MM3) in 1971, recalls the noisy generator in main control during the ship's last two deployments. Dave Speheger, a Radioman Second Class (RM2) in 1963, misses the good times and wild experiences, including spying off the coast of Russia and helping troops in Vietnam.
William Stevens, a Fire Control Technician Third Class (FT3) in 1958, remembers the dry dock period in Subic Bay and wonders about the whereabouts of some shipmates. Allen Wright, a Machinist's Mate Second Class (MM-2) in 1958, cherishes his memories of the fast attack tin can and the experiences that will stay with him forever.
Gerald Stern, who transferred from the USS Eugene A. Greene (DD-711) to the USS George K. MacKenzie in 1947, reflects on his short time aboard before being honorably discharged. Tom Schramel, who served aboard the ship, inquires about the availability of Zippo lighters in the ship's store, expressing a desire for a memento of his seafaring days.
These memories collectively highlight the camaraderie, adventures, and lasting bonds formed aboard the USS George K. MacKenzie (DD-836). The ship's crew members, from various ranks and years of service, share a deep sense of pride and nostalgia for their time on the "Mighty Mac," underscoring the profound impact this destroyer had on their lives.
USS George K. Mackenzie DD-836: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse
The USS George K. MacKenzie (DD 836) underwent significant upgrades throughout its service, ensuring it remained a vital asset to the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945 as a Gearing-class destroyer, the ship was initially equipped with radar and sonar systems suitable for the time. However, as naval warfare technology advanced, the MacKenzie was modernized as part of the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program in the early 1960s. These upgrades enhanced the ship's capabilities, particularly in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), with the addition of advanced systems like the SQS-23 sonar and ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher, dramatically improving its ability to detect and neutralize underwater threats. New radar systems and electronic countermeasures were also integrated to help the ship adapt to the growing complexities of naval operations during the Cold War.
The mission capabilities of the USS George K. MacKenzie were both varied and adaptable, reflecting the evolving needs of the Navy during this period. Initially focused on air defense and anti-submarine roles, the destroyer excelled in providing protection for larger vessels such as aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. The FRAM upgrades further expanded its versatility, particularly in ASW operations. One of the notable improvements was the integration of the DASH (Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter) system, which allowed the MacKenzie to deploy unmanned helicopters for extended-range detection and engagement of submarines, marking a significant leap in naval technology for the time. These enhancements ensured that the ship could operate across a wide range of mission profiles, from convoy protection and fleet defense to independent ASW patrols.
The USS George K. MacKenzie made significant contributions during the Vietnam War, where it played a critical role in naval operations, including providing shore bombardment support for ground troops. Its sophisticated radar and sonar systems were instrumental in detecting and monitoring enemy submarines and surface vessels. The ship’s adaptability was especially evident during Operation Sea Dragon, where it conducted interdiction missions to disrupt enemy supply routes. This demonstrated the MacKenzie's capacity to adjust to diverse combat scenarios, highlighting its importance within the U.S. Navy.
Beyond its combat duties, the USS George K. MacKenzie also participated in peacetime activities and global diplomacy. The ship made numerous goodwill visits and took part in joint exercises with allied navies, fostering international collaboration and showcasing American naval power. These missions not only improved the ship's operational effectiveness but also played a strategic role in advancing U.S. foreign policy goals by strengthening alliances and deterring potential adversaries.
The USS George K. MacKenzie's service, marked by continuous upgrades and its broad mission scope, solidified its place as a key component of the U.S. Navy's destroyer fleet. Its legacy reflects its versatility, adaptability, and lasting impact on both combat operations and strategic diplomacy.
USS George K. Mackenzie DD-836: A Legacy of Valor on the High Seas
The USS George K. MacKenzie (DD 836) had a distinguished service history marked by active involvement in several major conflicts and numerous deployments. Launched in 1945, the ship was initially stationed in the Western Pacific, where it participated in post-World War II operations. Throughout the late 1940s and early 1950s, the MacKenzie conducted patrols, participated in training exercises, and maintained readiness as tensions of the Cold War began to escalate.
During the Korean War, the USS George K. MacKenzie played a pivotal role in combat operations. The destroyer provided crucial naval gunfire support for United Nations forces, conducted anti-submarine warfare (ASW) patrols, and participated in blockades and escort missions. Its most notable contribution came during the Inchon Landing in September 1950, where its accurate and relentless bombardment helped secure the success of the amphibious assault, which became a turning point in the war. The MacKenzie's exemplary performance during the Korean War earned it the Korean Service Medal with six battle stars.
The MacKenzie was again called into action during the Vietnam War, where it served multiple tours off the coast of Vietnam. The destroyer supported ground troops with naval gunfire, conducted search and rescue missions, and engaged in ASW operations. Its versatility and firepower played a significant role during key military actions, including the Tet Offensive and the Easter Offensive. For its contributions to the conflict, the USS George K. MacKenzie was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with nine campaign stars and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.
Over the course of its service, the USS George K. MacKenzie earned numerous accolades in recognition of its exceptional performance. In addition to battle stars and campaign medals, the ship was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for its outstanding service. These awards stand as a testament not only to the ship’s impact on key military operations but also to the courage and professionalism of the crew members who served aboard her.
Decommissioned in 1976, the legacy of the USS George K. MacKenzie lives on through the sailors who served on her and the naval historians who continue to honor her remarkable contributions to U.S. naval history. The ship’s distinguished service record, spanning from World War II to the Cold War and into the Vietnam War, cements its place as one of the U.S. Navy’s most revered destroyers.
USS George K Mackenzie DD-836 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Gearing Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | July 13, 1945 |
| Displacement | 3,460 tons |
| Length | 391 feet |
| Beam | 41 feet |
| Draft | 14.3 feet |
| Speed | 37 knots |
| Complement | 11 Officers 325 Enlisted |