USS Moale DD-693
The USS Moale (DD-693) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, built during a time of intense global conflict. It was laid down on August 5, 1943, at the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Kearny, New Jersey. This shipyard was known for its quick and efficient production of naval vessels during World War II. The Moale was launched on January 16, 1944, and commissioned on March 28, 1944, with Commander Walter M. Foster at the helm. Its construction showcased American industrial strength and the nation's commitment to a strong naval presence during the war.
The ship was named after Lieutenant Edward Moale, Jr., a brave officer who served during the Spanish-American War. He was recognized for his courage and leadership, especially at the Battle of Manila Bay, where he played a key role in the American victory. Naming the ship after such a heroic figure was meant to inspire the crew and honor the legacy of courage and dedication that Lieutenant Moale represented. This tradition of naming ships after notable naval figures helps connect the past with the present, fostering pride within the Navy.
The USS Moale was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, an upgrade from the previous Fletcher-class. It had enhanced armament, improved radar and sonar systems, and better survivability. The Moale was armed with six 5-inch/38 caliber guns, twelve 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and eleven 20mm anti-aircraft guns, making it a formidable opponent against both surface and air threats. It also had advanced torpedo tubes and depth charge projectors, allowing it to effectively engage submarines. These features made the Moale a versatile and powerful asset in the Navy's fleet.
The Moale's legacy in the Navy is marked by its active service during World War II and the Korean War. During WWII, it took part in critical operations, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles in history. The Moale's contributions were significant, providing crucial support in anti-aircraft defense and shore bombardment. Its performance earned it several battle stars and commendations, solidifying its reputation as a reliable and effective warship. The Moale's legacy reflects the dedication and bravery of its crew, who served with distinction in some of the most challenging naval battles of the 20th century.
The Allen M. Sumner-class destroyers, like the Moale, were designed to provide versatile and effective support in various naval operations. These ships were multi-role vessels, capable of engaging enemy aircraft, surface ships, and submarines. The design improvements over previous classes allowed these destroyers to perform a wide range of tasks, from escorting larger ships and convoys to conducting independent offensive operations. The Moale, with its advanced weaponry and systems, exemplified the versatility and capability that the Allen M. Sumner-class brought to the Navy.
The commissioning of the Moale on March 28, 1944, marked the start of its active service. The ceremony was a significant event, symbolizing the ship's readiness for duty. Under Commander Walter M. Foster, the Moale quickly became an integral part of the Navy's efforts in the Pacific Theater. The commissioning wasn't just a formality; it was the culmination of months of construction, outfitting, and training, all aimed at preparing the ship and its crew for combat. The Moale's commissioning was a proud moment, signaling the addition of a powerful new asset to the Navy's fleet.
USS Moale DD-693: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Moale (DD-693) was a Fletcher-class destroyer, a class known for its sturdy design and versatility during World War II. It measured 376 feet 6 inches in length, with a beam of 39 feet 8 inches, and a draft of 17 feet 9 inches. This design let the Moale reach speeds up to 35 knots, making it one of the Navy's fastest ships back then. Built with high-tensile steel, the hull was tough enough to handle combat's harsh conditions. Its superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, vital for fleet operations.
The USS Moale was packed with cutting-edge tech for its era. It had the SG surface search radar and the SC air search radar, boosting its situational awareness and targeting. These radars let the Moale spot enemy ships and aircraft from afar, giving it a tactical edge in both attack and defense. The ship also featured the Mark 37 Gun Fire Control System, which combined radar and optical tracking to enhance the accuracy of its main guns. These technologies made the Moale a fierce competitor in naval battles.
The Moale's armament was a balanced mix of offensive and defensive power. Its main weapons were five 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, capable of hitting both surface and air targets. Mounted in single turrets, these guns had a wide range of motion and could fire rapidly. For anti-aircraft defense, the Moale was armed with 40mm Bofors and 20mm Oerlikon cannons. These smaller, quick-firing guns were crucial for defending against enemy aircraft and kamikaze attacks, especially in the later stages of World War II.
Beyond its guns, the USS Moale was equipped with torpedoes and depth charges, boosting its anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare abilities. It carried ten 21-inch torpedo tubes in two quintuple mounts, launching the Mark 15 torpedo. These torpedoes posed a serious threat to larger enemy ships. For anti-submarine warfare, the Moale had depth charge projectors and racks, enabling it to tackle underwater threats. This wide array of weaponry ensured the USS Moale could handle various roles, from convoy escort to direct combat with enemy forces.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Moale (DD-693) holds a rich tapestry of memories shared by its former crew members, spanning from its active service during World War II to its decommissioning in the early 1970s. These recollections, captured in a guestbook, offer a vivid portrayal of life aboard the destroyer and the camaraderie that developed among its sailors.
**World War II and Immediate Post-War Era:** Jack Howell, who served as a Seaman Second Class (SN2) in 1944, recalls being the youngest and thinnest member on the Moale at just 16 years old. Floyd Wise, a Yeoman aboard the Moale in 1945, reminisces about the Goodwill Tour after World War II, which took the ship from Alaska to Australia. Wise's post-service life saw him working for Disney in Florida before settling in Tennessee.
**1950s Service:** Fred Peckham, who joined the Moale in 1956 as a 17-year-old from New York, credits the ship with making a man out of him. He served in the After Fire Room and later became a B Division Officer. Alan Blum, who served from 1951 to 1955, recalls the ship's round-the-world tour and its stop in Korea. His nickname was "Greenie," and he invites anyone who remembers him to reach out.
**1960s Deployments:** The 1960s saw a diverse group of sailors with varied experiences. Donald Brooks, who served in 1960, is seeking anyone who might have a manifest with his name due to lost military records. Richard Dedcovich, an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM3) in 1964, encourages former crew members to join the Moale Association and attend reunions. David Goldberg, an Electronics Technician Radar Second Class (ETR2) in 1965, notes that the Moale was part of a Battle Task Force off the Egyptian coast during the 1967 Israeli Six-Day War, a detail often omitted from historical reports.
Jim White, who served from 1964 and rose from Gunner's Mate Third Class (GMG3) to Gunner's Mate First Class (GMG1), fondly remembers his time under Captains Zinni, Degler, and Scoville, and the four Mediterranean cruises he participated in. John Buck, a radioman from 1963, recalls obtaining his Ham Radio Operator license, which allowed him to facilitate ship-to-shore phone calls during a Mediterranean cruise in 1966.
Frank Boyle, a Gunner's Mate Third Class (GMG-3) in 1968, spent four years on the Moale, experiencing various ports and shipyards, from the Charlestown Naval Shipyard to the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Rick Duncan, an ETR2 in 1968, remembers his time in the Boston Naval Shipyards and the ship's homeport changes from Newport, RI, to Brooklyn, NY. Claude Ridgeway, who joined right out of boot camp in 1969, initially thought he would be a radioman but ended up as a gunner's mate after a year as a deckhand.
**1970s and Decommissioning:** Bob Agnese, who served in 1970, calls out to the reserve crew from 1970-1971, reminiscing about their transition from "green youngins" to seasoned sailors on the Gunline in Southeast Asia. Daniel Friend, a Sonar Technician Second Class (STG2) in 1973, was present for the ship's decommissioning and had hoped to transfer to the USS Sumner, which had already been decommissioned.
**Personal Reflections and Connections:** Several crew members express a desire to reconnect with old shipmates. Bill White, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) from 1965 to 1967, lists several names of fellow sailors he remembers fondly. Norman Gibson, who served from 1959 to 1961, recalls the deep friendships formed during cruises to the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and as far as Bombay, India. He particularly remembers Chief Sosa, his gunnery department leader, who had a significant impact on him.
Richard Rebnicky, a Boilerman Second Class from 1967 to 1970, served in the forward fire room and held roles as oil king and log room yeoman. Ron Henerfouth, a Radioman Second Class (RM2) from 1962 to 1965, lists several shipmates he served with and the two Mediterranean cruises they shared.
**Family and Legacy:** Scott Sinare is looking for anyone who knew his father, SF3 Anthony (Tony) Sinare. Marc Reed shares a photograph of the ship from his uncle, Gordon Reed, dated December 4, 1958, though he knows little about his uncle's service. The Moale family expresses pride in every crew member and looks forward to attending reunions.
These memories collectively paint a picture of the USS Moale as more than just a naval vessel; it was a formative experience for many young men, a place where lifelong friendships were forged, and a significant chapter in their lives. The annual reunions and the Moale Association continue to keep the spirit and camaraderie of the ship alive.
USS Moale DD-693: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Moale (DD-693) was a Fletcher-class destroyer that saw some serious action and upgrades during its time. Commissioned in 1944, it started with five 5-inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, and a mix of anti-aircraft artillery. But as naval warfare changed, so did the Moale. After World War II, it got some high-tech radar and sonar systems, boosting its ability to detect and track threats. It also received advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) gear, like Hedgehog depth charge projectors, which kept it a strong contender against underwater foes.
The Moale was a jack-of-all-trades, reflecting the versatile role of destroyers in the U.S. Navy. It was built for anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare but also shone in surface combat and convoy escort missions. During World War II, it took part in key operations like the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the invasion of Okinawa, where its anti-aircraft guns were crucial against kamikaze attacks. In the Cold War, its upgraded ASW capabilities made it a key player in tracking Soviet submarines, playing a part in the broader strategy of containment.
The USS Moale made a big impact on the fleet. In World War II, its agility and firepower were vital in several naval battles, earning it multiple battle stars. It was a linchpin in fleet operations, providing anti-aircraft cover and engaging enemy ships. During the Korean War, the Moale showed its versatility again, offering naval gunfire support for ground troops and taking part in blockade and patrol missions. Its presence in these conflicts highlighted its adaptability and the crucial role of destroyers in maintaining naval dominance.
Throughout its service, the USS Moale was a prime example of how naval warfare and Fletcher-class destroyers evolved. Its continuous upgrades kept it relevant in a changing combat landscape, and its varied mission capabilities allowed it to make significant contributions to naval operations. The Moale's storied career, marked by its participation in major conflicts and its ability to adapt to new threats, underscores the enduring importance of destroyers in the U.S. Navy. The USS Moale stands as a symbol of naval innovation and resilience.
USS Moale DD-693: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Moale (DD-693) was a remarkable ship with a storied history. Commissioned in 1944, it quickly found itself in the heart of World War II's Pacific Theater. The Moale was part of the action at the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles ever. It provided crucial anti-aircraft support and engaged enemy ships, showing off the power and versatility of the Allen M. Sumner-class destroyers. The crew's bravery and skill were key to the Allied victory in the Pacific.
After World War II, the Moale didn't rest. It served with distinction during the Korean War. As part of Task Force 77, the ship took on various roles, from shore bombardments to escort duties. Its role in the Inchon Landing, a critical amphibious assault led by General Douglas MacArthur, was especially significant. The Moale's precise and relentless gunfire helped secure the beachhead, giving United Nations forces a strategic edge. Throughout the Korean War, the Moale stood as a testament to the strength and capability of the U.S. Navy's destroyers.
The USS Moale's service didn't go unnoticed. It earned five battle stars for its World War II actions, highlighting its involvement in key battles. The crew received the Navy Unit Commendation for their exceptional performance at Leyte Gulf. During the Korean War, the ship added two more battle stars to its record, solidifying its legacy as a formidable and reliable asset in the U.S. Navy. These honors reflect the ship's operational excellence and the dedication of its crew.
The legacy of the USS Moale (DD-693) is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering duty. From the challenging waters of the Pacific in World War II to the tough conditions of the Korean Peninsula, the Moale and its crew consistently rose to the occasion. The ship's history mirrors the broader story of the U.S. Navy's role in mid-20th-century conflicts, marked by innovation, bravery, and a relentless pursuit of victory. The awards and commendations it received are not just a nod to past achievements but a lasting reminder of the ship's significant contributions to global peace and security.
USS Moale DD-693 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Allen M Sumner Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | February 28, 1944 |
| Displacement | 3,218 tons |
| Length | 376.5 feet |
| Beam | 40.7 feet |
| Draft | 14.2 feet |
| Speed | 36.5 knots |
| Complement | 345 |