The USS John C. Butler (DE 339) was a destroyer escort built during the height of World War II, a period marked by rapid growth and technological advancement in naval warfare. Constructed at the Consolidated Steel Corporation shipyard in Orange, Texas, work on the ship began on October 5, 1943. The shipyard, along with others across the United States, played a vital role in meeting the urgent demand for vessels during the war. The USS John C. Butler was launched on November 12, 1943, and officially entered service on March 31, 1944. The quick completion of the vessel, just over six months after the keel was laid, demonstrated America's industrial efficiency and commitment to the war effort.
The USS John C. Butler (DE 339) played a significant role in key military operations during World War II, showcasing the strength and effectiveness of destroyer escort ships. Launched in March 1944, the vessel was quickly deployed to the Pacific Theater, where it became involved in crucial battles that shaped the outcome of the war. One of the ship's most notable contributions was during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944, where it served as part of Task Unit 77.4.3, famously known as "Taffy 3." Despite facing overwhelming odds against a larger and more powerful Japanese fleet, the USS John C. Butler and its companion ships fought bravely, helping to secure an American victory in one of the largest naval battles of World War II.
In addition to its role in Leyte Gulf, the USS John C. Butler carried out numerous missions, including anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. These missions were critical for maintaining the vital supply lines across the Pacific, ensuring the safe passage of troops, equipment, and supplies. Equipped with advanced sonar and radar systems, the USS John C. Butler was well-suited to detect and counter enemy submarines, adding a significant layer of defense to the Allied forces. The ship's crew was highly trained and proficient in submarine warfare, making it an effective adversary against the undersea threat posed by the Japanese navy.
The USS John C. Butler's service was particularly distinguished during the Battle off Samar, a crucial part of the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf. The ship's courageous actions in this engagement earned it the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation, recognizing its bravery and effectiveness in combat under difficult conditions. Additionally, the ship was awarded four battle stars for its exemplary service throughout World War II, cementing its legacy as a key player in the success of the U.S. Navy during the war.
After the war, the USS John C. Butler continued to serve, although it was decommissioned in 1946 and placed in reserve. The ship was briefly recommissioned during the Korean War, but it did not see combat during that conflict. Eventually, the USS John C. Butler was removed from the Naval Vessel Register in 1972 and sold for scrap. Despite its relatively short service life, the contributions of the USS John C. Butler to key naval battles and its numerous accolades stand as a testament to the bravery and dedication of its crew, as well as the strategic importance of destroyer escorts in naval operations.
Named after Lieutenant John Clarence Butler, a U.S. Navy aviator who posthumously received the Navy Cross for his heroic actions during the Battle of Midway, the ship was a tribute to his bravery. Born on August 2, 1921, in Liberty, Arizona, Butler displayed exceptional courage during the battle, notably his attack on the Japanese aircraft carrier Hiryu. The naming of the ship after him served as a tribute to his sacrifice and to the valor demonstrated by servicemen during that era.
The USS John C. Butler was distinguished by its weaponry and design, characteristic of the John C. Butler class of destroyer escorts. It was armed with two 5-inch/38 caliber guns, four 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and ten 20mm anti-aircraft guns. The ship also featured three 21-inch torpedo tubes and depth charge projectors, making it well-equipped for anti-submarine operations. Its design was tailored for versatility, enabling it to perform a variety of roles from convoy escort duties to submarine patrols. Despite its smaller size compared to other naval vessels, the USS John C. Butler proved to be an invaluable asset in the varied naval environments of World War II.
The impact of the USS John C. Butler on the U.S. Navy was particularly significant during the Battle off Samar in the Battle of Leyte Gulf on October 25, 1944. Alongside ships from Task Unit 77.4.3, known as "Taffy 3," it faced a much stronger Japanese force. Despite being vastly outgunned and outnumbered, the crew of the USS John C. Butler displayed remarkable determination and skill, contributing to the eventual retreat of the Japanese fleet. This battle is often remembered as a display of exceptional bravery, and the USS John C. Butler’s heroic performance led to it being awarded a Presidential Unit Citation.
As part of the John C. Butler class, the USS John C. Butler was specifically designed for submarine warfare and convoy escort missions. While smaller and more heavily armed than destroyers, these ships offered greater speed and maneuverability, which was crucial for protecting convoys from the threat of German U-boats in the early years of the war. Drawing from the lessons of previous destroyer escorts, the John C. Butler class was engineered for efficiency and reliability.
Upon its commissioning, the USS John C. Butler began its active service, joining the Pacific Fleet where it participated in operations to liberate the Philippines and fought in the Battle of Okinawa. Its deployment and service during key stages of World War II played a pivotal role in enhancing the U.S. Navy’s operational capabilities in the Pacific theater. The USS John C. Butler’s service history stands as a testament to the critical role played by destroyer escorts in ensuring the success of the Allied forces.
Steel Guardian of the Pacific: The Engineering Marvel and Firepower of USS John C. Butler DE-339
The USS John C. Butler (DE 339) was a standout member of the John C. Butler class destroyer escorts, a class renowned for its adaptable design during World War II. The ship measured 306 feet in length and had a beam of 36.75 feet, providing ample space for a variety of naval operations. Its hull was crafted from welded steel, offering a blend of strength and flexibility that allowed it to endure the rigors of combat and the demanding sea conditions it encountered.
The ship's superstructure was designed to optimize visibility and operational effectiveness. Its bridge, positioned for clear lines of sight, allowed for superior navigation and coordination during combat missions. This strategic design ensured that the USS John C. Butler could respond quickly and efficiently to battlefield developments, enhancing its effectiveness in all types of operations.
In terms of technology, the USS John C. Butler was equipped with advanced systems for its time, making it highly effective in both submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. It was outfitted with radar systems that facilitated the detection of enemy submarines and surface vessels, while the sonar systems allowed for precise tracking and engagement of underwater threats. These technological innovations significantly boosted the ship's effectiveness in detecting and responding to threats, particularly in the high-stakes environment of submarine warfare. The communication suite aboard the ship was equally sophisticated, ensuring seamless coordination with other naval units and command centers, a crucial capability in the fast-paced and often chaotic conditions of naval combat.
The USS John C. Butler was also well-armed to handle a variety of threats. Its primary armament consisted of two 5-inch/38 caliber guns, capable of engaging both surface and air targets. The ship's defense against attacks included 40mm Bofors and single 20mm Oerlikon cannons, offering multiple layers of protection against enemy aircraft and surface vessels. The ship was also equipped with depth charge projectors and racks, allowing it to engage submarines effectively and safeguard critical shipping routes from underwater threats.
Additionally, the USS John C. Butler featured three 21-inch torpedo tubes, which allowed it to launch Mark 15 torpedoes at enemy surface vessels. This added offensive capability made the ship particularly valuable during escort missions, where the risk of enemy surface raiders was ever-present. The combination of artillery, anti-aircraft weapons, depth charges, and torpedoes made the USS John C. Butler a formidable combat vessel, capable of handling a wide range of threats across different operational scenarios.
With its advanced technologies, versatile armament, and robust design, the USS John C. Butler proved to be an invaluable asset during World War II, particularly in protecting convoys and engaging enemy submarines. Its adaptable capabilities ensured its effectiveness in the challenging and dynamic environment of the Pacific theater, cementing its place as a key player in the U.S. Navy’s efforts during the war.
USS John C Butler DE-339 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS John C. Butler (DE-339) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crewmembers, as evidenced by the heartfelt memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship and the camaraderie that developed among the sailors.
One of the most poignant memories comes from Logan Klein, who is the grandson of Robert Ellcessor. Although Klein did not serve on the USS John C. Butler himself, his connection to the ship through his grandfather is palpable. Klein is currently serving aboard the USS John C. Stennis in the weapons department as an Aviation Ordnanceman Airman (AOAN). His desire to learn more about his grandfather's experiences on the USS John C. Butler underscores the lasting legacy of the ship and its impact on the families of those who served.
The guestbook entries collectively highlight the strong bonds formed among the crew, the challenges they faced, and the pride they took in their service. These memories serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the USS John C. Butler and its crew, preserving their stories for future generations to appreciate and honor.
USS John C. Butler DE-339: Evolution of a Naval Guardian
The USS John C. Butler (DE 339) underwent several important upgrades throughout its service life, significantly enhancing its capabilities and ensuring it remained a valuable asset to the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1944, the vessel was initially equipped with advanced submarine warfare (ASW) technology of the time, such as depth charge projectors, hedgehog anti-submarine mortars, and sonar systems. These systems were critical in the ship's primary mission: safeguarding Allied shipping from the persistent threat of enemy submarines during World War II.
As naval warfare evolved, so did the USS John C. Butler. After the war, the ship underwent substantial upgrades to its radar and communication systems, ensuring it could function effectively in an increasingly information-driven combat environment. These enhancements allowed the ship to maintain its edge in detecting and engaging both submarines and surface vessels, adapting to the changing nature of naval threats and ensuring its continued relevance in the post-war years.
The mission capabilities of the USS John C. Butler were wide-ranging, reflecting the versatile roles of destroyer escorts in the U.S. Navy. While it was primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare, the ship also played an important role in convoy escort missions, ensuring safe passage for merchant and military vessels through hostile waters. In addition to its defensive and ASW duties, the USS John C. Butler demonstrated its flexibility by providing naval gunfire support during various operations, further proving its value in diverse roles.
One of the most significant moments in the USS John C. Butler's career came during the Battle off Samar, part of the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944. As part of the "Taffy 3" task unit, the ship and its allies faced a formidable Japanese fleet. Despite being outgunned, the crew of the USS John C. Butler fought bravely, playing a critical role in the American victory. This display of resilience and tactical ingenuity earned the ship a Presidential Unit Citation, a testament to its heroism during one of the most decisive naval battles of the war.
Following its wartime service, the USS John C. Butler continued to serve during the Cold War era, participating in exercises and patrols designed to project naval power and deter potential threats. The ship's continued ability to adapt to new technologies and mission requirements allowed it to remain a key asset in the fleet until its decommissioning.
The enduring legacy of the USS John C. Butler highlights the essential role of destroyer escorts in maintaining naval security and supporting broader naval operations. Its versatile design, advanced technology, and proven performance in combat made it a reliable and valuable part of the U.S. Navy throughout its service.
Valor on the Waves: The Storied Deployments and Heroic Legacy of USS John C. Butler DE-339
The USS John C. Butler (DE 339) played a part in important military operations during World War II demonstrating the effectiveness and strength of destroyer escort ships. Launched in March 1944 the vessel was immediately involved in the heart of action in the Pacific Theater. One notable deployment was during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944 where it operated as part of Task Unit 77.4.3 famously known as "Taffy 3." Despite facing odds against a Japanese fleet the USS John C. Butler and its companion ships bravely contributed to Americas eventual triumph marking a pivotal moment in the Pacific conflict.
Apart from its actions at Leyte Gulf, the USS John C. Butler actively participated in missions like anti submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. Its role in these tasks was crucial for maintaining supply lines and ensuring passage for troops and supplies across the Pacific region. The destroyer escorts advanced sonar and radar systems, paired with the crews training positioned it as an adversary, against enemy submarines.
During World War II the presence of destroyer escorts, like the USS John C. Butler played a role in warfare strategies.
The USS John C. Butler was highly praised for its performance in the Battle off Samar, a part of the Battle of Leyte Gulf. This led to the ship and its crew receiving the Presidential Unit Citation recognizing their bravery and effectiveness in combat under challenging conditions. Additionally the USS John C. Butler was honored with four battle stars for its service during World War II solidifying its reputation as a vessel in US Navy history.
Following World War II the USS John C. Butler continued to serve until it was decommissioned in 1946 and placed in reserve. While briefly recommissioned during the Korean War it did not engage in combat at that time. The ship was eventually removed from the Naval Vessel Register in 1972. Sold for scrap. Despite its operational lifespan the contributions of the USS John C. Butler to significant conflicts and its numerous accolades stand as a testament to both the bravery and dedication of its crew and the strategic significance of destroyer escorts, in naval operations.
USS John C Butler DE-339 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | John C Butler Class Destroyer Escort |
| Commissioned | March 31, 1944 |
| Displacement | 1,745 tons |
| Length | 306 feet |
| Beam | 36.9 feet |
| Draft | 13.5 feet |
| Speed | 24 knots |
| Complement | 14 Officers 201 Enlisted |