USS Halsey Powell DD-686
The USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) was a Fletcher-class destroyer built during World War II, a time of rapid naval growth and innovation. Her keel was laid on February 3, 1943, at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation's shipyard in San Pedro, California. She was launched on July 30, 1943, and officially joined the U.S. Navy on November 25, 1943. This ship was part of a larger effort to strengthen the Navy's power in response to threats in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.
Named after Rear Admiral Halsey Powell, the ship honored a distinguished officer known for his leadership during World War I and the interwar years. His tactical skills and leadership were qualities the Navy wanted to reflect in the ship. Naming ships after notable figures is a tradition that inspires crews and keeps the Navy's rich history alive.
The USS Halsey Powell had the typical armament and design of Fletcher-class destroyers. She boasted five 5-inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, and various anti-aircraft weapons, making her a formidable force in both surface and air battles. The Fletcher-class was all about speed, maneuverability, and firepower, allowing these ships to take on many roles, from escorting larger vessels to hunting enemy submarines and aircraft. Her sturdy build and advanced weaponry made her a versatile and reliable part of the fleet.
The Halsey Powell's legacy in the U.S. Navy is marked by her active role in key operations during World War II and the Korean War. She earned numerous battle stars, highlighting her significant contributions to various naval campaigns. Her performance in these conflicts showed the effectiveness of the Fletcher-class design and the crucial role of destroyers in modern naval warfare. The stories and experiences of her crew, who showed bravery and dedication, keep her legacy alive.
As a Fletcher-class destroyer, the USS Halsey Powell was part of one of the most successful and widely produced classes of destroyers in naval history. These ships were designed to overcome the limitations of earlier destroyer classes and meet the demands of a global conflict. They served multiple roles, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-aircraft defense, and surface combat. The Fletcher-class's versatility and reliability made it a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy's efforts during World War II, and the Halsey Powell was a prime example of this class's capabilities.
The commissioning of the USS Halsey Powell on November 25, 1943, marked the start of her distinguished service. Under the command of Lieutenant Commander Harold O. Larson, she quickly became a key player in the Navy's operations in the Pacific Theater. The commissioning ceremony was a moment of pride and anticipation as the crew prepared to join the fight against the Axis powers. Her entry into service was a testament to the Navy's commitment to maintaining a powerful and effective fleet, ready to face the challenges of a world at war.
USS Halsey Powell DD-686: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) was a Fletcher-class destroyer, a class known for its sturdy design and adaptability during World War II. It was 376 feet 6 inches long, with a beam of 39 feet 8 inches, and a draft of 17 feet 9 inches. The ship displaced about 2,050 tons standard and up to 2,500 tons when fully loaded. Built with high-tensile steel, it struck a balance between strength and weight, crucial for speed and maneuverability. Its superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, essential for fleet operations and anti-submarine warfare.
The Halsey Powell was packed with cutting-edge technology for its time. It ran on four Babcock & Wilcox boilers and two General Electric geared steam turbines, generating 60,000 shaft horsepower. This setup let the destroyer hit speeds up to 35 knots, making it one of the fleet's fastest. It boasted advanced radar systems like the SG surface search radar and the SC air search radar, boosting its situational awareness and combat effectiveness. Sonar equipment was also on board for detecting submarines, a critical feature during the intense submarine threat in the Pacific Theater.
The ship's armament was impressive, fitting its role as a multi-mission destroyer. It had five 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, capable of targeting both surface and air threats. These guns were in single turrets, with two forward, two aft, and one amidships. The destroyer also carried anti-aircraft weapons, including ten 40mm Bofors guns in twin mounts and seven 20mm Oerlikon cannons. This firepower provided strong defense against enemy aircraft and surface threats, making the Halsey Powell a key player in fleet operations.
Beyond its guns, the USS Halsey Powell was equipped with torpedoes and depth charges, boosting its anti-submarine warfare capabilities. It had ten 21-inch torpedo tubes in two quintuple mounts, launching the Mark 15 torpedo, effective against both surface ships and submarines. For anti-submarine warfare, it featured two depth charge racks and six K-gun depth charge projectors. These weapons allowed the Halsey Powell to conduct aggressive anti-submarine patrols and protect larger vessels from underwater threats. With its advanced technology, powerful armament, and versatile weaponry, the USS Halsey Powell was a formidable force in the US Navy's arsenal during World War II.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, each reflecting a unique facet of life aboard the ship. These recollections span from the early 1950s through the late 1960s, capturing both the camaraderie and the challenges faced by those who served.
Jerry Dunsworth, who served as a Quartermaster Second Class (QM2) in 1961, encapsulates the mixed experiences of naval life, acknowledging both the good and bad times but expressing a willingness to relive it all. His sentiment is a testament to the enduring bond shared by the crew.
Jim Mosteller, an Ensign (ENS) in 1963, recalls the intensity of night watches in the Combat Information Center (CIC) and a dramatic rescue of a downed Chinese National pilot. He also mentions a significant mechanical failure when the starboard shaft broke at full power near Midway, highlighting the technical challenges faced by the crew.
Ricardo Mota, who served as a Seaman Recruit (SR) in 1964, shares a more somber memory. Initially assigned to an aircraft carrier to avoid deployment to Vietnam, he eventually joined the Seabees and was wounded in 1967, marking a poignant turn in his Navy career.
Henry Sellmeyer, a Boiler Technician Third Class (BT3) in 1952, provides a brief but personal update, correcting the spelling of his name and sharing his new email address, indicating a desire to reconnect with former shipmates.
C. Smith, a Lieutenant (LT) in 1961, reflects on his time in the Engineering department, particularly during the incident when the shaft broke at full power. He also mentions Operation Dominic I at Christmas Island, hinting at the ship's involvement in significant military operations.
Robert Triplett, who served as an E-2 from 1961 to 1964, fondly remembers the people he met aboard the ship and expresses a desire to reconnect with them, underscoring the lasting friendships formed during his service.
Richard Kitchen, an E-3 in 1967, describes his progression from a Gunner's Mate to an unrated Electronics Technician after graduating from National Technical Schools, illustrating the career development opportunities available in the Navy.
Len Bonneville, who served in 1960, reminisces about the camaraderie within the CIC crew, particularly during the challenging times in the Taiwan Straits. He fondly recalls the communal effort of loading food supplies and the good meals enjoyed during late-night shifts.
Leonard Turner, also from 1960, cherishes the memories of the WestPac cruise from 1960 to 1961 and expresses a wish to reconnect with a fellow shipmate, Tom Lingard, highlighting the enduring connections formed during their service.
K. Toner, who served in 1955, recalls standing next to Bob Todd in a 1956 R Division cruisebook picture and reminisces about crossing the equator and visiting Sydney, Australia, capturing the adventurous spirit of naval life.
Don Franklin, who served in 1962, acknowledges both good and bad memories but particularly treasures the 1963 WestPac cruise. He vividly remembers the incident of the broken shaft between Midway and Pearl Harbor and the vibrant personalities in the Radio Shack, painting a lively picture of life aboard the ship.
Lastly, Emeri B., a relative of a veteran who served from 1942 to 1945, expresses gratitude to all veterans and seeks stories about their grandfather's service, reflecting the deep respect and curiosity of the younger generations for the experiences of their forebears.
These collective memories from the USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) crew members offer a rich tapestry of naval life, marked by technical challenges, personal growth, enduring friendships, and a shared sense of duty and adventure.
USS Halsey Powell DD-686: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) was a remarkable ship that saw many changes during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1943, this Fletcher-class destroyer was a powerhouse of its era, equipped with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems, along with a formidable array of anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons. Throughout World War II, it received upgrades to its radar and fire control systems, boosting its targeting precision and combat prowess. After the war, the Halsey Powell underwent modernization under the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program. This included enhanced sonar capabilities, the addition of anti-submarine rocket launchers (ASROC), and better living quarters for the crew, ensuring it stayed relevant during the Cold War.
The USS Halsey Powell's mission capabilities were as varied as they were vital. Initially built for anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare, it played a key role in escorting aircraft carriers and shielding larger ships from enemy threats. During World War II, it was part of significant operations like the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Okinawa campaign, where its anti-aircraft guns and depth charges were crucial. After the war, its role expanded to include anti-submarine patrols, search and rescue missions, and joint exercises with allied forces. The FRAM upgrades, with ASROC and improved sonar, made it even more effective in anti-submarine warfare, proving its worth as a versatile asset in the Navy's lineup.
The contributions of the USS Halsey Powell to the fleet were both significant and varied. In World War II, it earned numerous battle stars for its involvement in major naval battles, providing essential support in both offensive and defensive operations. Its escort duties for aircraft carriers and convoys were critical to the success of Allied operations in the Pacific. In the years following the war, the Halsey Powell continued to serve with distinction, taking part in the Korean War and various Cold War missions. Its presence helped maintain a strong naval posture, deterring potential threats and securing maritime routes. The ship's ability to adapt and endure was evident as it smoothly transitioned from wartime to peacetime missions, always ready to answer the call of duty.
The USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) stands as a shining example of how naval warfare technology and strategy evolved through its many upgrades and diverse missions. From its beginnings as a World War II destroyer to its post-war modernization and Cold War service, the ship consistently proved its value to the U.S. Navy. Its legacy is marked by technological advancements, tactical flexibility, and an unwavering commitment to mission success. The story of the Halsey Powell is a testament to the enduring importance of adaptability and innovation in maintaining naval superiority.
USS Halsey Powell DD-686: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Halsey Powell (DD-686) was a remarkable ship with a storied history. Commissioned in 1943, this Fletcher-class destroyer quickly found herself in the thick of World War II. She was sent to the Pacific, where she played a vital role in several key operations. One of her most notable contributions was during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, a massive naval battle. There, she provided crucial screening and anti-aircraft support for larger ships. Her speed and firepower made her a key player in the island-hopping campaigns, helping secure victory for the Allies in the Pacific.
When the Korean War erupted, the USS Halsey Powell was called back into action. She sailed to the waters off Korea, taking on roles like shore bombardment, anti-submarine warfare, and escort duties. Her presence was a strong deterrent to enemy forces and offered vital support to United Nations troops on the ground. The ship and her crew were pivotal in operations like the Inchon Landing, which was a turning point for UN forces. Her service during this time highlighted her ongoing strategic importance to the US Navy.
Beyond combat, the USS Halsey Powell was active in peacetime operations and exercises. She made goodwill visits to allied nations, participated in joint naval exercises, and patrolled key maritime routes to ensure freedom of navigation. During the Cold War, her deployments were especially significant, showcasing the United States' commitment to a strong naval presence worldwide. Her ability to handle various missions, from combat to diplomacy, underscored her versatility and the professionalism of her crew.
The USS Halsey Powell's outstanding service was well recognized. Throughout her career, she earned numerous awards and commendations. For her World War II actions, she received several battle stars, marking her participation in major battles and her combat effectiveness. Her Korean War service brought additional battle stars and commendations, solidifying her legacy as a formidable and reliable warship. The Halsey Powell's career is a testament to the dedication and bravery of her crew, and her many accolades honor their contributions to the US Navy and the defense of freedom worldwide.
USS Halsey Powell DD-686 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Fletcher Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | October 25, 1943 |
| Displacement | 2,924 tons |
| Length | 377 feet |
| Beam | 40 feet |
| Draft | 13.8 feet |
| Speed | 38 knots |
| Complement | 9 Officers 264 Enlisted |