USS Hull DD-945

The USS Hull (DD-945) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer built for the U.S. Navy during the Cold War. Her keel was laid on September 12, 1956, at Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine, a shipyard famous for crafting naval vessels. She was launched on August 10, 1957, and commissioned on July 3, 1958. The Hull was part of a push to modernize the Navy with destroyers that could tackle the complex threats of the era.

Named after Commodore Isaac Hull, a hero of the War of 1812, the ship honored his legacy. Hull commanded the USS Constitution, known as "Old Ironsides," in its victory over the British frigate HMS Guerriere. This win was a huge morale boost for the young American Navy. Naming the destroyer after him was a nod to his contributions and the Navy's enduring spirit.

The USS Hull boasted advanced armament and radar systems for its time. She had three 5-inch/54 caliber Mark 42 guns, ASW torpedoes, and later, an ASROC launcher. Her radar and sonar systems were top-notch, enhancing her surface and sub-surface warfare capabilities. These features made the Hull a powerful and versatile force at sea.

Throughout her service, the USS Hull was active in many key operations and exercises. She served in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, playing vital roles in both peacetime and conflict. During the Vietnam War, she provided naval gunfire support and took part in search and rescue missions. Her history showcases the adaptability and resilience of the Forrest Sherman-class destroyers, designed to meet the changing demands of naval warfare.

The Forrest Sherman class included 18 destroyers built in the 1950s and early 1960s. These ships replaced aging World War II-era destroyers and served as multi-mission platforms for tasks like anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare, surface combat, and shore bombardment. They were among the first with an all-steel superstructure, offering durability and reduced maintenance. This class marked a leap in naval engineering and set the bar for future destroyer designs.

The commissioning of the USS Hull began a nearly three-decade-long career. She quickly became a key part of the Navy's fleet, participating in numerous exercises and deployments. The commissioning ceremony on July 3, 1958, was a big event, attended by naval dignitaries and crew families. It symbolized the Hull's readiness to defend national interests and uphold maritime security. Throughout her service, the USS Hull embodied strength, versatility, and dedication, leaving a lasting mark on the Navy and its people.

 

USS Hull DD-945: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry

The USS Hull (DD-945) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, a class celebrated for its sturdy design and adaptability. Launched in 1958, this ship stretched 418 feet long and 45 feet wide, offering a solid platform for various naval missions. Built with high-tensile steel, it struck a balance between strength and weight, allowing it to zip through the water at speeds over 30 knots. Its superstructure was crafted to reduce radar visibility, a forward-thinking feature for its time, boosting its stealth. The ship's layout included roomy deck areas for weapons and advanced radar systems, ensuring it could handle everything from anti-aircraft to anti-submarine warfare.

Tech-wise, the USS Hull was decked out with cutting-edge systems for its era. It boasted the AN/SPS-10 surface search radar and the AN/SPS-40 air search radar, giving it a full picture of its surroundings. These radars worked alongside the AN/SQS-23 sonar, crucial for spotting and tracking submarines. The ship also had the Mk 68 Gun Fire Control System, which used radar data to sharpen the aim of its main guns. Its propulsion system featured four Foster Wheeler boilers and two General Electric steam turbines, churning out a combined 70,000 shaft horsepower. This setup not only made it fast but also nimble on the seas.

When it came to firepower, the USS Hull initially packed three 5-inch/54 caliber Mark 42 guns, capable of taking on both surface and air targets. These guns fired rapidly and were guided by the advanced fire control system, making them deadly in various combat situations. The ship also carried two twin-mounted 3-inch/50 caliber guns as secondary anti-aircraft weapons. For anti-submarine warfare, it had torpedo tubes for launching Mark 32 torpedoes. Over time, the ship's arsenal was upgraded to include Harpoon anti-ship missiles, boosting its offensive reach.

The USS Hull's weaponry was further enhanced with the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) system, allowing it to launch rocket-propelled torpedoes at submarines from afar. This system significantly bolstered its anti-submarine warfare capabilities, making it a tough opponent in underwater battles. The ship also had the ability to deploy depth charges, adding another layer to its anti-submarine toolkit. With these advanced weapon systems, the USS Hull was a versatile and powerful asset in the US Navy's fleet, ready for a wide range of missions from escort duties to direct combat engagements.

 

Crew Accounts of Time Aboard

The USS Hull (DD-945) 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 from the ship's commissioning in the late 1950s to its decommissioning in the early 1980s, reflecting a wide range of emotions and experiences.

Steve Bingham, who served as a PC3 in 1971, fondly recalls the ship's many enjoyable stops throughout the Pacific and its role in supporting troops in Vietnam with its 5-inch guns. Similarly, Dave Bolek, an OS2 in 1981, despite hating every minute of his time in the Navy, expresses pride in his service and wouldn't trade his time aboard the Hull for anything.

Frank Dale, an IC3 in 1973, remembers a fellow crew member named Howie, thanking him for his help and good teaching during their short time together. Williams Edward shares a unique perspective, recounting how his father, a captain, shifted his pennant to the Hull during a Far East cruise in 1964 for the return voyage to San Diego, accompanied by pictures taken during that time.

Kevin Hall, who served as an MM3 in 1979, mentions another website with more names and emails of former crew members, indicating a desire to reconnect with old shipmates. Lemuel Hall, a SN in 1979, describes the thrilling experience of riding the "tin can" out of dry dock, gearing up in San Diego, and heading to the Philippines.

Eric Hall, a SN/E-3 in 1981, reminisces about the ship's last WestPac/Indian Ocean tour, becoming a shellback and bluenose, and the camaraderie with some of the best men he ever knew. Mark Hammonds, a BTFN in 1974, is on the lookout for old snipes from the forward and aft firerooms, emphasizing the enduring bond among those who served in the engine rooms.

Roger Heffron, a SM3 in 1963, cherishes the great times in WestPac and summer cruises with midshipmen on board, while Loren Hillesheim, a PC3 in 1974, recalls his dual roles as a gunner's mate and postal clerk, and a recent mini-reunion with former shipmates.

Martin Hruz, an MS2 in 1976, highlights the installation of the 8-inch gun and the enjoyable WestPac cruises, while Jose Macias, an RMSN in 1981, proudly remembers delivering the last message to NAVCOMMSTA San Diego for CDR Howell. John Minkkinen, a SM1(SW) in 1978, recounts being one of the last two sailors to leave the ship at decommissioning, a very sad day for him.

Keith Moser, a GMG3 in 1970, recently had a reunion with old friends, reminiscing about forgotten and unforgettable memories. Greg Nance, an OSSN in 1979, recalls fun times during the WestPac 1981 cruise and wonders about the whereabouts of fellow OS's Bluford, Shavlik, and Bolek.

Gerald Parfitt, an RD1 in 1967, describes his five years on the Hull as a wild ride with the best crew of radarmen he ever worked with. Karl Robson, a SN in 1965, reflects on his journey from boot camp in San Diego to serving on the Hull and his subsequent ten years in the DD Navy.

Ron Sprague, a FTG3 in 1974, laments the ship's fate but cherishes the time he spent on board, while Philip Abramson, a GMG3 in 1964, seeks to reconnect with fellow gunners from his time on the ship. Steve Anderson, an EN3 in 1981, fondly remembers his first WestPac on the Hull and the shipmates he will never forget.

Charles Ashton, a GMG1 in 1963, expresses a desire to keep in touch with former crew members and inquires about any scheduled reunions. Dennis Bakke's widow is searching for anyone who might remember her late husband, who served as a gunnersmate in 1964.

Bill Barry, an RD3 in 1962, shares his nickname "Bari Bari" and his subsequent Navy career, while Bruce Blickle, a QM3 in 1968, recounts his service until disembarking in Da Nang, Vietnam, and later meeting the Hull's executive officer who had become a Navy Captain.

Mike Booth, who served as an MM3-HT2 in 1974, has many great memories from his almost five years on the Hull, including the installation and removal of the 8-inch gun and two WestPac cruises. Stephen Box, an MM3 in 1981, recalls his time in the aft engine room, water rationing, and the ship's decommissioning on his birthday.

Rasmussen Boyd, an E3 in 1960, served as the chief cook during KP duty and worked in the engine room before attending Electrician Mate School. Jeff Brady, an MM3 in 1981, cherishes his first ship and the memories with his mates in Engine Room #2.

Mitch Branden, an MSSN in 1982, had a great time cruising the "tin can" on WestPac, while Mike Bratkovic, an E5 in 1981, learned his job as an OS very well and served as Petty Officer of the watch at the ship's decommissioning.

Lesley Cassidy, a GM2 in 1974, considers the Hull his favorite ship despite his short time on board due to an injury. Kim Christiansen, who served in 1976, fondly remembers the great shack and his fellow radiomen.

Richard Coen, a SR in 1973, has good memories of his time aboard the Hull, including a WestPac cruise and the ship's dry dock period for the 8-inch gun installation. Bob Compton, an HT2/E-5 in 1980, will never forget his first ship and the great crew he was part of.

Gerry Cooney, a YNSN/YN3 in 1962, recalls Commander Feely and the exec R.R. Hensen, as well as his career in television and film. Duane Dailey, an RD3 in 1964, had loads of fun with shipmates Fred Bowman and Lloyd "Sweet Pea" Freeman.

Jamey Dempsey, a BMSN in 1982, remembers meeting the ship in Diego Garcia and the great times in Olongapo City. David Dennison, an ETR3 in 1965, credits the ship and his shipmates for helping shape his life.

Mark Dent, an E3 in 1976, is still thinking about his sea mates and the memories they shared. Paul Denzler, a Lieutenant (JG) in 1958, was part of the pre-commissioning detail and served on the ship through the Panama Canal to San Diego.

Roger Dill, an MS2 in 1981, was the oldest enlisted shellback on board during a line-crossing ceremony and the last man to reenlist on the ship. Mark Dougherty, a SN in 1970, provides his contact information for anyone who wants to reconnect.

David Duenas, a GM3 in 1959, served with his brother aboard the Hull before joining the Army and retiring in 1979. John Ford, an E-3 in 1982, humorously recalls playing hearts with the Master Chiefs and putting the "Bitch" on the Chief Boatswain's Mate.

Mike Ford, an E3 Fireman in 1965, learned a lot about serving his country while providing artillery support and escorting convoys in Vietnam. William Gaines, an ET3 in 1981, learned about leadership and what it meant to be a sailor on his first ship.

Tony Grasso, a Seaman in 1971, is looking for his buddies from the Hull, while Bob Gruener, a GM3 in 1981, misses his old friend McNeil, who has since passed away. Eric E. Hall, a BM in 1981, fondly remembers his first ship and the lessons he learned from the old salts.

Kevin Hall, an MM2 in 1980, had good times on two WestPacs and reconnected with shipmates after leaving the Navy. Mark Hammonds, a BTFN in 1974, is looking for fellow snipes from his time on the ship.

Harley Hasselswerth, an EM2 in 1964, wants to reconnect with old shipmates, while Roger Heffron, a SM3 in 1963, vividly remembers rescuing a pilot off the coast of North Vietnam. Ansley Jackson, a GMGSN in 1979, had a great command with some of the greatest guys he has known.

Jim James, an HT3 in 1979, loved almost every day on the Hull and still thinks about the ship and his shipmates. David Keil, a MRFN to MR3 in 1976, joined the ship on WestPac and swapped to the Ajax in 1977.

Lacy Lee, an RMSN/3 in 1977, enjoyed his first ship and the best WestPac ever, while Gerald M. Little, a CTRSN/RM in 1960, considers it an honor and privilege to have served on the Hull. William Ludwig, a BT-2 in 1976, remembers his first ship and the people he served with the most.

Jose A. Macias, an RMSN in 1981, was proud to serve on the Hull's last crew and delivered the last message to NAVCOMMSTA San Diego. Jeffrey Mahon, an ETR3 in 1965, is looking for shipmates from the Hull's deployments in 1965 and 1966.

John McKechnie, a LT, SC, USN in 1964, promotes the USS Hull Association and its reunions, while Gonzalo Mejia Yepez, an EM3 in 1975, wants to find out what happened to his shipmates in the electrical shop.

Brian Merritt, a QM2 in 1977, enjoyed two WestPac cruises and recommends the Navy to any young man. Robert Modell, a LTJG in 1961, mentions the bi-annual USS Hull Association reunions.

David O'Haro, an E3 in 1969, recalls his time as a midship rigger and boswainmate of the watch, while Darrell Osborn, an RM2 in 1968, recounts his medical journey from Subic Bay to Great Lakes and his disability retirement.

Gerald Parfitt, an RD1 in 1962, met the Lord on the Hull, marking the most important day of his life. Aaron Porter, a GMG2 in 1974, had a great time working on the 8-inch/MK 71 LWGM and proved everyone wrong about the old girl's capabilities.

William Rudolph, a BT2 in 1958, served on one of the best ships with a good skipper, good food, and a fine crew. Norman Sakaida, a PC1 in 1979, considers the Hull his favorite out of four ships and toasts his fellow sailors with an ice-cold Red Horse.

David Sandeen, a QM in 1966, spent his first year on the Hull and has wonderful memories of his time on board. Dennis Scrutchfield, a BT3 in 1970, is proud to have served on the Hull and in the US Navy, with lessons that have served him well throughout his life.

David Shavlik, an OS2 in 1978, had a great time on the Hull and went on to retire as an OS1 from the reserves in 2000. Scott Siepmann, a BT2 in 1980, had an unforgettable experience on the Hull, with two WestPacs and too much fun in Subic City.

Thomas Smith, an MS2 in 1974, was a cook on board and is looking for anyone who served during his time. Leon Snider, an RM3 in 1974, had a great time on the Hull and remembers the yard time in Long Beach and the 8-inch gun installation.

Ron Sprague, a FTG-2 in 1974, loved his time on the Hull and regrets not being on board for her first WestPac after the 8-inch gun installation. Jess Stewart, an SH2 in 1975, has fond memories of his time on the Hull and the two WestPac cruises.

Michael Stokesberry, a QM2 in 1962, worked with a great team of quartermasters and has many fond memories. Jim Stouffer, a SM3 in 1981, describes the Hull as an old worn-out bucket but had lots of fun and remembers the "Gun Doctor."

Robert Valente, a LT (O-3) in 1981, served as M Division Officer and later as OPS Officer during the decommissioning. Brian Viera, a BMSN in 1979, credits his time on the Hull for his skills as an experienced seaman.

James Wagner, an EM2 in 1965, is looking to reconnect with other personnel from the Hull, especially electrician mates. Keith Watkins, a LTJG (O-2) in 1978, proudly says the Hull was his favorite ship out of his 22-year Navy career.

Jim Williams, an MM1 in 1980, fondly remembers his time as LPO of the aft engine room and considers it the best command out of his 20-year career. Ken Williams, an RM3 in 1965, has many fond memories of serving on the Hull and the great radio crew.

Bt Williams, a SK3 in 1966, is looking for his great friend James Carruthers. David Zegers, a BM3 in 1975, spent 30 years in the Navy and retired as a CMDCM, with the Hull leaving a lasting impression.

Richard Cardenas, who served from 1980-83, worked with some great people and loved every minute of it, especially Chief Michael Roy, who was a great inspiration.

 

USS Hull DD-945: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet

The USS Hull (DD-945) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer that saw some impressive upgrades during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1958, Hull was initially outfitted with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems, along with a powerful armament of 5-inch/54 caliber guns and anti-submarine torpedoes. As technology advanced, so did Hull. In the early 1970s, it underwent the New Threat Upgrade (NTU) program, which brought in advanced radar, fire control systems, and electronic warfare capabilities. These upgrades kept Hull sharp and ready for any challenge.

Hull was a jack-of-all-trades, reflecting the versatile nature of destroyers. It was designed for anti-submarine warfare, equipped with advanced sonar and ASW torpedoes to tackle underwater threats. Its surface-to-air missiles and anti-aircraft guns provided solid air defense, protecting carrier strike groups from aerial attacks. Hull's 5-inch guns were also key in surface warfare, engaging enemy ships and supporting ground forces during amphibious operations. This versatility made Hull a vital player in everything from peacetime patrols to intense combat scenarios.

During its service, Hull made significant contributions to the Navy's readiness and strategic goals. In the Vietnam War, Hull was crucial in naval gunfire support missions, delivering firepower to U.S. and allied forces along the Vietnamese coast. Its precise bombardments disrupted enemy supply lines and fortifications, aiding military campaigns. After Vietnam, Hull remained a key part of the Navy's forward-deployed forces, participating in exercises and operations to maintain maritime security and deter threats. Hull's presence in various operations highlighted its strategic value and the importance of a capable surface fleet.

The legacy of USS Hull underscores the vital role of destroyers in the Navy. Its upgrades and performance show the Navy's dedication to technological superiority and flexibility. By adapting to new threats, Hull demonstrated the critical role destroyers play in maritime dominance and national security. Though decommissioned in 1983 and sunk as a target in 1998, Hull's contributions to naval warfare and its influence on future destroyer classes are significant. The lessons from Hull's service continue to shape modern naval vessels, ensuring the U.S. Navy remains a formidable force on the seas.

 

USS Hull DD-945: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations

The USS Hull (DD-945), a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, had a remarkable service record with numerous deployments and active roles in major conflicts. Commissioned in 1958, Hull first headed to the Western Pacific. There, it played a key role in patrolling and maintaining maritime security during the tense Cold War years. Early on, Hull was involved in operations in the Taiwan Strait, helping deter aggression and ensure regional stability. These missions highlighted the ship's versatility and readiness, cementing its reputation as a reliable asset in the U.S. Navy's fleet.

During the Vietnam War, USS Hull was deeply involved in several critical operations. It provided naval gunfire support to ground forces and took part in search and rescue missions. Hull's firepower was crucial in disrupting enemy supply lines and fortifications along the Vietnamese coast. The crew showed exceptional skill and bravery, often working under tough conditions to support U.S. and allied forces. Hull's contributions to the war effort were significant, earning it a place of honor among the vessels that served in the conflict.

Beyond combat, USS Hull also engaged in numerous peacetime operations and exercises, boosting its operational capabilities and fostering international cooperation. The ship participated in joint exercises with allied navies, including those of Japan, South Korea, and Australia. These activities strengthened maritime partnerships and promoted regional stability. Hull's deployments showcased its tactical proficiency and highlighted the importance of collaboration in maintaining global security. Its presence in international waters was a testament to the U.S. Navy's commitment to peace and stability worldwide.

Throughout its service, USS Hull received several awards and commendations, reflecting the dedication and excellence of its crew. Among these honors were the Navy Unit Commendation and multiple campaign medals for its service in Vietnam. The ship's exemplary performance in both combat and peacetime operations earned it respect and admiration from peers and superiors alike. The legacy of USS Hull (DD-945) is one of unwavering commitment to duty, marked by deployments and missions that significantly contributed to the U.S. Navy's objectives and the broader goals of national security.

 

USS Hull DD-945 Ship Specifications

Specification	Details
Class	Forrest Sherman Class Destroyer
Commissioned	July 3, 1958
Displacement	4,619 tons
Length	418 feet
Beam	44.9 feet
Draft	22 feet
Speed	33 knots
Complement	324