USS Pharris FF-1094

The USS Pharris (FF-1094) was a Knox-class frigate built for the U.S. Navy during the Cold War. It was laid down on February 14, 1972, at Avondale Shipyards in Westwego, Louisiana. This shipyard was well-known for its naval construction expertise. The Pharris was part of a larger effort to enhance the Navy's anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, crucial during a time when the Soviet submarine threat loomed large. The ship launched on December 16, 1972, and was commissioned on July 26, 1974, officially joining the fleet.

Named after Lieutenant Commander Jackson Charles Pharris, the ship honored a Medal of Honor recipient known for his bravery during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. Despite severe injuries, Pharris showed remarkable courage and leadership, saving his ship and crew. The ship's name was meant to inspire its crew with the same spirit of bravery and dedication.

The USS Pharris boasted advanced sonar and ASW systems. It featured the AN/SQS-26 sonar, one of the most sophisticated at the time. The ship also carried the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) system and torpedoes, making it a formidable opponent against underwater threats. With a helicopter deck and hangar, it could operate the SH-2 Seasprite helicopter, further boosting its ASW capabilities.

The Pharris left a legacy in the Navy through its participation in various operations and exercises. It took part in numerous NATO exercises, demonstrating the strength and cooperation of allied naval forces. During the Cold War, the Pharris played a role in maritime strategy, conducting surveillance and tracking Soviet submarines. Its presence highlighted the need for strong ASW capabilities to counter potential threats.

As a Knox-class frigate, the Pharris was designed primarily for ASW but could also handle general escort duties. These ships were known for their single screw propulsion system, balancing speed and endurance. The Knox-class replaced older destroyer escorts and served as the backbone of the Navy's ASW forces. Their design emphasized versatility, allowing them to adapt to various missions.

The commissioning of the USS Pharris marked the start of nearly two decades of service. The ceremony was a significant event, attended by naval dignitaries, crew families, and guests. It included traditional customs like raising the commissioning pennant and the first official salute. Once commissioned, the Pharris set out on its maiden voyage, ready to protect U.S. maritime interests and contribute to global naval operations.

 

USS Pharris FF-1094: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry

The USS Pharris (FF-1094) was a Knox-class frigate, a class known for its sturdy design and versatility. It had a long, sleek hull, measuring 438 feet in length and a beam of 47 feet, which gave it both speed and stability in various sea conditions. When fully loaded, it displaced about 4,200 tons. The superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, giving the ship a distinctive look. Knox-class frigates, including the Pharris, were powered by a single screw propulsion system with a Westinghouse steam turbine. This setup generated up to 35,000 shaft horsepower, letting the ship reach speeds over 27 knots.

The USS Pharris was packed with cutting-edge tech for its time. It had the AN/SPS-40 air search radar and the AN/SPS-67 surface search radar, crucial for spotting and tracking both aerial and surface threats. The AN/SQS-26 sonar system was key for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations. With the Naval Tactical Data System (NTDS), the ship could share data in real-time and coordinate with other naval assets, boosting its situational awareness and combat effectiveness. The Pharris also had electronic warfare systems like the AN/SLQ-32, which provided electronic countermeasures against enemy radar and missile systems.

When it came to armament, the USS Pharris was ready for a range of threats. Its primary weapon was the Mk-16 ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher, capable of delivering both depth charges and torpedoes to combat submarines. It also had a Mk-42 5-inch/54 caliber gun mount, versatile enough to engage surface targets, provide naval gunfire support, and defend against aerial threats. For close-in defense, the Pharris was armed with two Mk-32 triple torpedo tubes, launching Mk-46 torpedoes specifically designed for ASW, making it a formidable opponent against underwater threats.

The ship's weaponry was further enhanced by the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), a rapid-fire 20mm gun system designed to intercept incoming anti-ship missiles and aircraft. This system was the last line of defense against fast-moving threats that got through the ship's outer defenses. Additionally, the Pharris was equipped with chaff and flare dispensers to counteract enemy radar and infrared-guided missiles. With these advanced weapon systems and defensive measures, the USS Pharris was a well-rounded and capable frigate, ready for missions ranging from convoy escort to anti-submarine warfare.

 

Crew Accounts of Time Aboard

The USS Pharris (FF-1094) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and countless adventures. The guestbook posts from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, highlighting camaraderie, hard work, and unforgettable experiences.

Doug Coleman, who served as an FC3 in 1992, fondly recalls the friendships formed during a NATO cruise, expressing a desire to reconnect with his shipmates. Similarly, Henry Durham, a GMM in 1987, and Richard Jones, a BMC in 1981, reflect on their time aboard with a sense of nostalgia and well-wishes for their fellow sailors.

Bill Petreszyn, an HT1(SW) in 1984, reminisces about the fast-paced and enjoyable nature of life on the Pharris, while Mark Shimko, an MM2 in 1979, and Mike Shue, an MM3 in 1980, share memories of their specific duties and the unique experiences they had, such as throwing their captain into a pool in Banjul.

Bill Sullivan, an HT3 in 1977, and William Algee, an MS3 in 1982, emphasize the hard work and long hours but also the pride and satisfaction that came with their roles. Brian Bahouth, a BT1 in 1983, recalls the somber moment of the Beirut barracks bombing, juxtaposed with lighter memories of eating peanuts on the fantail.

Steven Becker, an SH3 in 1985, and Dan Bossie, an MMFN in 1978, reflect on the personal growth and career paths that followed their service, with Becker transitioning from ship's barber to dog grooming business owner. John Bovender, an MM2(SW) in 1984, shares colorful anecdotes from various ports of call, including mud wrestling in Cork, Ireland.

Craig Rat Braman, an MM3 in 1985, and Charles R Brannan, a YN2 in 1983, express their fondness for the Pharris and the lasting impact it had on their lives. Neil Brennan, an ET2 in 1981, and Leonard Brisendine, an HN in 1975, highlight the indescribable pride and the significant events they witnessed, such as the Belknap-Kennedy collision.

Theodore Brown, an RM3 in 1984, and Eddie Burmaster, a BT2 in 1983, recall the many ports they visited and the strong bonds formed with their shipmates. Barry Carter, an E6/OS1(SW) in 1987, and Marty Chernitsky, a LT(JG) in 1975, recount their participation in significant operations and the unique experiences that came with them.

Cedric Christie, a BT3 in 1988, and Dean Courtright, an OS/E-7 in 1972, express their gratitude for the friendships and memories made aboard the Pharris. Moses Crocker, an E6 in 1969, and Kevin Crook, a GMG2 in 1980, share their experiences as original plank owners and the significant events they witnessed.

Moose Cullen, a BTFN in 1983, and Kerwin Delaney, an E-4 in 1987, highlight the exciting adventures and the strong sense of brotherhood they felt. Ronald Delvecchio, an OS3 in 1989, and Vernon Durbin, a TM2 in 1981, reflect on the hard work and the extensive travel that came with their service.

Earl Ebron, who served in 1980, and Chuck Elswick, an E5 HT in 1973, emphasize the importance of their roles in keeping the crew well-fed and the ship in top condition. Mike Eltringham, a BT2(SW) in 1991, and Mike Eveland, an FTG 2 in 1981, share their pride in the ship and the lasting friendships they formed.

Marion Fay, an HMC in 1974, and Guy Gazda, an ET2 in 1986, express their fond memories and the impact their service had on their lives. Robert Gilbreath, an OS2 in 1985, and Rick Gonzales, an OS2/1 in 1989, highlight the valuable lessons and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard.

Jeff Grego, a BT2 in 1981, and Tom Griffith, a QM3 in 1976, share humorous and memorable moments from their service. Troy Hackney, an EW2 in 1987, and Charles Hall, an RM3 in 1977, reflect on the tight-knit community and the unexpected career paths that followed their service.

Jeff Hall, an E5 Personnelman in 1984, and Trevor Halliday, an SK3 in 1980, recount their experiences in various ports and the personal growth they experienced. Mike Hammons, an RM3/SN/SK3 in 1977, and Gregory Harrison, a GMG3 in 1981, share their fond memories and the lasting impact of their service.

Peter Hassler, a BM2 in 1976, and Fred Heald, an STG3 in 1975, recall significant events and the camaraderie they felt. Tim Hilgendorf, an IC2 in 1986, and Jeff Hoeflich, a QM3 in 1991, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed.

Glen Holmes, an E4/GMM3 in 1987, and Dan Huston, a BM3 in 1981, highlight the extensive travel and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard. Frederick Jackson, an E-4/SM3 in 1990, and Stephen Jaquish, an STG3 in 1975, share their memorable experiences and the significant events they witnessed.

Thomas Johnson, an FC2(SW) in 1984, and Harley Keisch, an IC2 in 1980, express their fond memories and the lasting impact of their service. Patrick Kelly, an ENS/LTJG/LT in 1986, and Edward Klose, an SGT 3 in 1975, highlight the personal growth and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard.

Ron Lajeunesse, an STG2 in 1983, and Richard Lipke, an EN2 in 1981, share their fond memories and the lasting impact of their service. Andy Lowey, an STG2 in 1988, and Gunner Mahan, a GMG1 in 1985, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed.

Barry Marlow, an E/5 BT/2 in 1978, and Henri McCrae Shcs Usn, an SH2 in 1990, highlight the hard work and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard. David Melton, an OSSN/OS2 in 1984, and Kenneth Mitchell, an E6/OS1 in 1989, share their memorable experiences and the significant events they witnessed.

Bill Petreszyn, an HT1(SW) in 1983, and Tom Phillips, an MS2 in 1980, express their fond memories and the lasting impact of their service. Emery Pinder, a QM in 1974, and Kenneth Potts, a PN1 in 1975, highlight the significant events and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard.

Mark Pruim, an STG2(SW) in 1986, and Rob Puchacz, an EM1 in 1976, share their memorable experiences and the lasting impact of their service. David D. Puffer, an E4/IC3 in 1973, and Ernest Ranard, an MM2 in 1987, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed.

Brian Regan, a Boiler Tech Second Class in 1985, and Patrick Regnier, an MS3 in 1982, highlight the hard work and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard. James Riddall, a FN in 1985, and Ron Rodak, an RM2 in 1973, share their memorable experiences and the significant events they witnessed.

Terry Rowe, an ET? in 1984, and Jeffrey Rush, an EM1/EMC(SW) in 1986, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed. Gary Sappington, a DC3 in 1985, and Gromoski L. Section, an SMSA - SM2 in 1973, highlight the significant events and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard.

Sean Shelley, an ET3 in 1990, and Jim Shepherd, a SN in 1990, share their memorable experiences and the lasting impact of their service. Mark Shimko, an MM2 in 1979, and Mike Shue, an MM3 in 1980, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed.

Kenneth Simon, an HM3 in 1983, and Alfred Sprouse, an SM3 in 1986, highlight the hard work and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard. Charles Squires, a Sonar Tech 2nd Class in 1987, and David Stans, an EM2(SW) in 1986, share their memorable experiences and the significant events they witnessed.

Steve Steiner, a BT2(SW) in 1990, and Scott Stevens, an MM2(SW) in 1987, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed. Mark Stevens, an SM2 in 1980, and Robert Stout, a Fireman in 1991, highlight the significant events and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard.

Jerry Switzer, an STG2 in 1981, and Tracy Tall, a BT3 in 1981, share their memorable experiences and the lasting impact of their service. Trent Telford, a DK3 in 1989, and Mark Thompson, an E-3 in 1975, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed.

Matt Thorington, an SHSN in 1990, and Hank Toppett, an STG2(SW) in 1981, highlight the hard work and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard. Frederick Vierheller II, an RM3 in 1976, and Thomas Vingua, an E2 to E4 in 1976, share their memorable experiences and the significant events they witnessed.

Ken Walker, an E3 in 1981, and Frank Wallace, an EM3 in 1978, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed. Tom Wazlavek, a SN in 1973, and Kevin Wenrick, who served in 1983, highlight the significant events and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard.

Keith Willoughby, an SR-SH2 in 1977, and Justin Wolf, a BT3 in 1990, share their memorable experiences and the lasting impact of their service. Doug Wright, an EM3 in 1976, and Nocton Wynne, an STG2 in 1981, express their pride in their service and the lasting friendships they formed.

David Yanez, an EN2 in 1987, and Carl Younginer, an STG3 in 1973, highlight the hard work and the strong bonds formed during their time aboard. The memories shared by these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard the USS Pharris, filled with hard work, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences.

 

USS Pharris FF-1094: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet

The USS Pharris (FF-1094) was a Knox-class frigate that saw some impressive upgrades during its time in service. Commissioned in 1974, it was initially packed with anti-submarine warfare (ASW) gear like the SQS-26 sonar and the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher. In the early 1980s, the Pharris got a big boost from the Navy's Service Life Extension Program (SLEP). This included the SQR-18A Towed Array Sonar System, which really upped its game in spotting submarines. Plus, it got the LAMPS Mk I (Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System) helicopter system, letting it deploy SH-2 Seasprite helicopters for even better ASW operations.

The Pharris wasn't just about ASW, though. It was built to handle surface warfare (SUW) and had some anti-air warfare (AAW) capabilities too. Armed with a 5-inch/54 caliber gun, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, and the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), it was ready for action against missiles and aircraft. The LAMPS Mk I system made it even more versatile, allowing for coordinated operations with its helicopter. This flexibility meant the Pharris could do everything from escorting convoys and maritime interdiction to joining multinational naval exercises and offering humanitarian aid.

Throughout its service, the USS Pharris was a key player in many naval operations. During the Cold War, it was busy tracking Soviet submarines in the Atlantic, helping the U.S. maintain its strategic edge. The ship also took part in numerous NATO exercises, working closely with allied navies and showing the U.S.'s commitment to collective security. In the late 1980s, the Pharris was sent to the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War, where it escorted reflagged Kuwaiti oil tankers as part of Operation Earnest Will. This mission highlighted its ability to operate in dangerous environments and protect crucial maritime interests.

The legacy of the USS Pharris is all about adaptability and dedicated service. The upgrades it received kept it a strong force in the fleet, ready to tackle new threats and mission demands. Its contributions to ASW, surface warfare, and multinational operations showcase the Knox-class frigates' versatility and resilience. Decommissioned in 1992, the Pharris left a legacy of dedication and excellence, having been a vital part of the U.S. Navy's efforts to maintain maritime superiority and global stability.

 

USS Pharris FF-1094: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations

USS Pharris (FF-1094) had a remarkable service record, filled with deployments and key naval operations. Commissioned in 1974, she was part of the Atlantic Fleet, taking on missions like anti-submarine warfare and maritime security. Pharris often joined NATO exercises, working closely with allied navies and showing the U.S.'s dedication to collective defense. Her journeys took her to the North Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean, where she helped keep the seas stable and ready.

During her time in service, USS Pharris was involved in several major operations. She played a crucial role during the Cold War, tracking Soviet submarines and ships, which was vital to countering Soviet naval power. In the late 1980s, Pharris was sent to the Persian Gulf during the Iran-Iraq War, taking part in Operation Earnest Will. This mission aimed to protect reflagged Kuwaiti oil tankers from Iranian threats, showcasing her ability to handle high-risk situations and support U.S. foreign policy and maritime security.

USS Pharris's outstanding service was well recognized. Throughout her career, she received numerous awards and commendations, highlighting the dedication and professionalism of her crew. She earned honors like the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for exceptional performance in both peacetime and combat. The ship also won multiple Battle Efficiency "E" awards, proving her excellence in areas like anti-submarine warfare and overall readiness. These awards were a testament to the ship's high standards and the skill of her officers and crew.

Beyond unit awards, individual crew members of USS Pharris were often recognized for their bravery and exceptional service. Sailors received personal commendations such as the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, celebrating their contributions to the ship's missions and the broader goals of the U.S. Navy. The legacy of USS Pharris is one of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment, leaving a lasting mark on U.S. Navy history and serving as a shining example of naval excellence.

 

USS Pharris FF-1094 Ship Specifications

Specification	Details
Class	Knox Class Fast Frigate
Commissioned	January 26, 1974
Displacement	4,065 tons
Length	438 feet
Beam	46.9 feet
Draft	24.9 feet
Speed	27 knots
Complement	227