USS Marsh DE-699
The USS Marsh (DE-699) was a Buckley-class destroyer escort built during World War II. Her keel was laid down on June 17, 1943, at the Defoe Shipbuilding Company in Bay City, Michigan. She was launched on September 25, 1943, and officially commissioned into the United States Navy on December 16, 1943. These ships were part of a massive effort to expand the Navy's fleet quickly. Destroyer escorts like the Marsh played a crucial role in anti-submarine warfare and convoy protection.
The ship was named in honor of Lieutenant (junior grade) Benjamin Franklin Marsh, Jr., a naval aviator who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism during the Battle of Midway. Lt. Marsh's bravery and sacrifice were emblematic of the valor and dedication of many servicemen who fought in the Pacific Theater. Naming the vessel after him was a tribute to his legacy and a reminder of the personal sacrifices made during the war.
The USS Marsh had some standout features typical of the Buckley-class destroyer escorts. She was armed with three 3-inch/50 caliber guns, a quad 1.1-inch/75 caliber gun mount, eight 20mm anti-aircraft guns, and three 21-inch torpedo tubes. She also had depth charge projectors and a hedgehog anti-submarine mortar, making her well-suited for her primary role in anti-submarine warfare. Her design emphasized speed, maneuverability, and versatility, allowing her to perform various tasks, from escorting convoys to engaging enemy submarines.
The legacy of the USS Marsh in the US Navy is significant. She represents the critical role destroyer escorts played during World War II. These vessels were essential in protecting convoys from submarine threats, ensuring the safe passage of troops and supplies across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The USS Marsh, like many of her sister ships, contributed to the overall success of naval operations by providing reliable and effective defense against enemy submarines. Her service exemplified the importance of destroyer escorts in maintaining naval superiority and securing victory in the war.
The USS Marsh belonged to the Buckley-class, a class of destroyer escorts designed to be smaller and more cost-effective than traditional destroyers while still providing substantial firepower and anti-submarine capabilities. The primary purpose of the Buckley-class ships was to protect convoys from submarine attacks, a critical task given the significant threat posed by German U-boats and Japanese submarines during the war. The design and construction of these ships reflected the Navy's strategic emphasis on versatility and efficiency, allowing them to be produced quickly and in large numbers.
The commissioning of the USS Marsh on December 16, 1943, marked the beginning of her active service in the US Navy. Under the command of Lieutenant Commander William B. Ellis, the ship was quickly deployed to the Atlantic Theater, where she participated in convoy escort missions and anti-submarine patrols. The commissioning ceremony was a moment of pride and anticipation as the crew prepared to take on their vital role in the war effort. The USS Marsh would go on to serve with distinction, contributing to the Navy's mission of securing the seas and supporting Allied operations throughout the conflict.
USS Marsh DE-699: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Marsh (DE-699) was a Buckley-class destroyer escort, a class celebrated for its versatility and robust design during World War II. At 306 feet long and 37 feet wide, it provided a stable platform for various naval operations. Built with welded steel, the hull was strong and durable, yet light enough to allow the ship to reach speeds of up to 23 knots. This made it agile for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and convoy escort duties. Its layout included multiple compartments and watertight bulkheads, boosting its survivability in combat.
The USS Marsh was equipped with cutting-edge technology for its time. It had advanced sonar and radar systems, crucial for spotting enemy submarines and surface ships. The sonar system was particularly important, helping the ship locate and track underwater threats, giving it a tactical edge. The radar system allowed the crew to keep an eye on air and surface activity, ensuring early detection of potential dangers. A comprehensive communication suite enabled coordination with other naval units and command centers, enhancing operational effectiveness.
The ship's armament was designed for various combat scenarios. It featured three 3-inch/50 caliber dual-purpose guns, effective against both surface and aerial targets. These were backed by anti-aircraft artillery, including twin 40mm Bofors and single 20mm Oerlikon cannons, providing strong defense against enemy aircraft. For its ASW role, the ship was equipped with depth charge projectors and racks, which created underwater explosions to neutralize enemy submarines.
Beyond its primary armament, the USS Marsh carried torpedoes and hedgehog anti-submarine mortars. The torpedoes targeted larger enemy vessels, while the hedgehog mortars offered a forward-firing ASW capability. This system launched multiple small charges that detonated on contact with a submarine, increasing the chances of a successful strike. This mix of weaponry made the USS Marsh a formidable opponent in both surface and sub-surface engagements, ensuring it could protect convoys and hunt enemy submarines with equal skill.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Marsh (DE-699) holds a rich tapestry of memories shared by its former crewmembers, spanning from the late 1940s to the mid-1960s. These recollections provide a vivid snapshot of life aboard the ship, highlighting significant events, personal experiences, and the camaraderie among the crew.
Herbert Cahalen, who served as a Fireman First Class (FN1) in 1947, recalls the ship's involvement in the Bikini Atoll A-Bomb Tests. The USS Marsh played a crucial role in supplying power and hosing down the ships used in these tests, marking a significant chapter in naval history.
John Starkey, a Storekeeper Third Class (SK3) in 1948, also reflects on the Atomic Bomb tests during Operation Crossroads. He describes the experience as profound and mentions surviving a typhoon off Guam in 1946, underscoring the unpredictable and often perilous nature of naval service.
In 1955, Tina Duncan sought information about Thomas Wesley Barrington, a Boiler Technician First Class (BT1) who served on the USS Marsh. This inquiry highlights the enduring connections and the desire to reconnect with shipmates long after their service.
Charles McNeill, an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM3) in 1956, shares his journey from electrician school to his first Far East cruise aboard the Marsh. His service culminated in a transfer to the USS Evans (DE-1023) in 1959, illustrating the career progression and mobility within the Navy.
Joseph Dunn, an E-5 in 1959, recounts his time in the reserves in Long Beach, California, and his subsequent deployment to Vietnam out of Subic Bay in 1962. He expresses a desire to reconnect with fellow crew members, including Willis and Captain Cronshey, reflecting the strong bonds formed during service.
Gerald Perez, a Quartermaster Seaman (QMSN) in 1961, expresses regret over lost communication with shipmates and looks forward to rekindling those connections. His sentiment is echoed by Paul Bertiaux, an Electrician's Mate Second Class (EM2) in 1961, who served as a reserve aboard the Marsh for two years before the activation of reserve ships by President Kennedy. Bertiaux remains in contact with a few shipmates, emphasizing the lasting friendships forged aboard the ship.
James Perry, a Boiler Technician (BT) in 1962, reminisces about seeing a display of the USS Marsh at an American Legion Post in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. The sight of the ship's picture brought back a flood of memories from over 40 years ago, illustrating the deep emotional connection to the vessel.
Marc Naquin, a Seaman (SN) in 1963, recalls his time as an active reserve seaman from San Bernardino, California, participating in summer drills out of the 12th Naval District Long Beach Port. His experience highlights the routine training and preparedness that characterized naval reserves.
Leonard Martin, a Boiler Technician Third Class (BT3) in 1966, fondly remembers working in the #2 boiler room and the camaraderie with shipmates like Tom Turpin, Jack Osborne, and a man named Del. Now residing in Swanton, Vermont, Martin's memories reflect the enduring impact of his service aboard the USS Marsh.
These shared memories from the USS Marsh (DE-699) guestbook paint a vivid picture of the ship's storied past, the significant events it witnessed, and the lasting bonds formed among its crew. Each recollection contributes to the rich history of the vessel and the personal narratives of those who served aboard her.
USS Marsh DE-699: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Marsh (DE-699) was a remarkable ship that saw many changes during its service. Commissioned in 1944, it was initially outfitted with the best anti-submarine warfare (ASW) tech of the time, like depth charge projectors and hedgehog mortars. As naval warfare evolved, so did the Marsh. In the early 1950s, it got upgraded radar and sonar systems, boosting its ability to detect and track threats. These upgrades kept the Marsh a top-notch ASW platform well into the Cold War.
The Marsh had a wide range of missions, showing just how versatile destroyer escorts could be. It was mainly built for convoy escort duties, protecting both merchant and military ships from submarines and air attacks. Its strong ASW capabilities made it a pro at hunting enemy subs, a crucial job during World War II and the Cold War. The ship also had anti-aircraft guns, providing air defense for the convoys it escorted. Plus, it could handle search and rescue missions and even support naval gunfire during amphibious assaults.
The USS Marsh made significant contributions to the fleet. During World War II, it played a key role in the Pacific, including the Battle of Okinawa. It ensured the safe passage of vital supply convoys, crucial for the Allied forces. After the war, the Marsh continued to shine, taking part in training exercises and ASW patrols during the tense early Cold War years. Its ability to adapt to new tech and missions highlighted its lasting value to the Navy.
The USS Marsh (DE-699) was a testament to the adaptability and resilience of U.S. Navy destroyer escorts. Through various upgrades, it stayed at the forefront of naval technology and remained a critical asset in both wartime and peacetime. Its diverse missions, from convoy escort to ASW and air defense, showcased its versatility and importance. The Marsh's contributions were significant, ensuring the safety and success of naval operations across decades and different theaters of conflict.
USS Marsh DE-699: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Marsh (DE-699) was a remarkable ship during World War II, embodying the strength and adaptability of the destroyer escort class. Commissioned in 1944, she quickly joined the Pacific Theater, taking on crucial convoy escort missions. Her job was to shield larger ships from submarine and air threats, and she did it with impressive skill. Marsh's presence was a strong deterrent to enemy submarines, playing a key role in the success of Allied naval operations.
At the Battle of Okinawa, one of the biggest amphibious assaults in the Pacific War, USS Marsh was vital in protecting the invasion fleet. Her anti-aircraft guns were tested as she faced relentless kamikaze attacks. Despite the danger, Marsh's crew showed incredible bravery and skill, taking down many enemy planes. This was one of her most intense and important contributions to the war, highlighting her significance in naval warfare.
For her outstanding service, USS Marsh received several awards. She earned the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with three battle stars, showing her active role in key battles. The ship also received the World War II Victory Medal, proving her part in the ultimate victory in the Pacific. These honors celebrate not just the ship's success but also the dedication and courage of her crew, who faced tough challenges with determination.
After World War II, USS Marsh continued to serve during the early Cold War years. She took part in peacetime operations, including training exercises and goodwill missions, helping maintain naval readiness and build international relations. Though decommissioned in 1969, Marsh's legacy lives on through her many accolades and the lasting impact she made on naval history. The story of USS Marsh DE-699 is a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States Navy and its commitment to protecting freedom worldwide.
USS Marsh DE-699 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Buckley Class Destroyer Escort |
| Commissioned | January 12, 1944 |
| Displacement | 1,740 tons |
| Length | 306 feet |
| Beam | 36.9 feet |
| Draft | 10.6 feet |
| Speed | 24 knots |
| Complement | 213 |