USS Puget Sound AD-38
The USS Puget Sound (AD-38) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, built with care and purpose. Her keel was laid on 15 November 1965 at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington. She was launched on 16 September 1966 and commissioned on 27 April 1968. This ship was a testament to America's shipbuilding prowess in the mid-20th century, showcasing the nation's dedication to a strong and versatile naval fleet.
Named after Puget Sound, a key waterway in the Pacific Northwest, the ship carried a name steeped in maritime history and strategic importance. Puget Sound is a complex network of marine waterways, crucial for naval operations and shipbuilding. Naming the ship after this iconic location highlighted her role in bolstering the Navy's destroyer fleet readiness.
The USS Puget Sound was known for her impressive repair and maintenance capabilities. As a destroyer tender, she was equipped with workshops, machine shops, and repair facilities, allowing her to support destroyers and other naval vessels. Her design included equipment for hull repairs, electrical work, and mechanical overhauls, making her a floating maintenance hub. This was vital for extending the life of Navy destroyers, especially during long deployments.
Her legacy in the Navy is marked by significant contributions to fleet readiness and efficiency. Throughout her service, she played a key role in various naval operations, providing essential support to destroyers and other ships. Her ability to perform complex repairs at sea kept the Navy operational, even in remote areas. The ship's legacy is also seen in the many commendations and awards she received for exemplary service.
The USS Puget Sound was part of the Yellowstone-class of destroyer tenders, designed to support and maintain the Navy's destroyer fleet. These ships provided mobile maintenance and logistical support, ensuring destroyers stayed combat-ready. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a skilled crew, the Yellowstone-class ships were crucial to the Navy's strategy for a flexible and responsive fleet.
The commissioning of the USS Puget Sound marked the start of a distinguished Navy career. She quickly became an essential asset, supporting naval operations worldwide. Her commissioning was a significant event, attended by naval dignitaries, underscoring her importance in the fleet. Over the years, the USS Puget Sound proved her worth repeatedly, earning a reputation for reliability and excellence. Her commissioning wasn't just the start of her operational life but the beginning of a legacy of support and service that lasted for decades.
USS Puget Sound AD-38: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Puget Sound (AD-38) was a standout in the world of destroyer tenders, part of the Yellowstone-class, not the Samuel Gompers-class. It was built to keep destroyers and other ships in top shape, offering everything from repairs to logistical support. Weighing in at about 20,500 tons when fully loaded, this ship was a giant. It stretched 641 feet long and 85 feet wide. Inside, it was like a floating workshop, packed with machine shops, foundries, and electronic repair stations. The superstructure was big enough to house all these facilities and living quarters for up to 1,500 crew members, including skilled technicians and support staff.
The Puget Sound was a technological marvel of its time. It had cutting-edge radar and communication systems, crucial for keeping in touch with the fleet. The ship was equipped with cranes and heavy-lift gear to manage large components and machinery. Its navigation systems were top-notch, allowing it to sail smoothly in different maritime environments. All these features made sure the Puget Sound could deliver quick and efficient support, boosting the fleet's readiness for action.
When it came to defense, the Puget Sound wasn't built for battle but had enough firepower to protect itself and the ships it serviced. It carried two twin 3-inch/50 caliber gun mounts, offering some defense against air and surface threats. These guns could fire 50 rounds a minute, reaching targets up to 14,600 yards away. The ship also had small arms and anti-aircraft guns for extra protection. The main goal of its armament was to ensure it could carry out its support missions without too much risk from enemy forces.
The ship's defensive capabilities didn't stop there. It had advanced electronic warfare and countermeasure systems to detect and jam enemy radar and communications. This added an extra layer of safety. The Puget Sound could also deploy decoys and chaff to throw off incoming missiles and torpedoes. While it wasn't a frontline combat ship, its robust defensive systems allowed it to operate safely in hostile areas, maintaining its vital role in fleet support and maintenance.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Puget Sound (AD-38) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and countless experiences. The guestbook posts from these veterans paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, the camaraderie, the adventures, and the lasting impact of their time in the Navy.
**Gaeta, Italy: A Common Thread** Many crew members fondly recall their time in Gaeta, Italy, where the ship was homeported for several years. Jerry Bieter (MS3, 1983) and Michael Lucas (OSSN, 1983) both express a desire to return to Gaeta, reminiscing about local haunts like Vic's Bar and Bill's Subs. Layne Chartrand (OS2, 1982) and Todd Ludwig (E-4, 1982) also share their fond memories of Gaeta, highlighting the friendships and the vibrant local culture. The sentiment is echoed by many others, including Dennis Murphy (SH3, 1979), who recalls lunches with his friend Phill, and Starla Neuhart (DK2, 1981), who describes Gaeta as having the best food in the world.
**Friendships and Reunions** The bonds formed aboard the USS Puget Sound are evident in the numerous posts seeking to reconnect with old shipmates. Jayla Bell (E-2, 1992) searches for her best friend, Airman Jerry Rusho, while Sylva Judson (ET2, 1989) and her husband Graham, who also served on the ship, express a desire to hear from old friends. Leah Capozzi (QM3, 1989) and Mikal Erickson (E-3/SN, 1983) also seek to reconnect with their shipmates, highlighting the enduring nature of these relationships.
**Memorable Experiences** The ship's various deployments and port visits left lasting impressions on its crew. Dan Hansen (ET2, 1980) recalls playing guitar in the ship's band, while Robert Kraus (MM3, 1971) reminisces about Operation Pegasus in Greece. Tim Manning (HTFN, 1981) credits his time as a Redshirt for shaping him into the man he is today, and Frank Prisciandaro (ML3, 1980) fondly remembers the ship becoming the 6th Fleet flagship.
**Life-Changing Moments** For some, their time on the USS Puget Sound was marked by significant personal milestones. LaDwana Pease (BM3, 1986) met her first husband while traveling to Europe, and Karen Harrison (SEAMAN/CORPSMAN, 1982) met her husband, a BT, on the ship. Tammy Halyak (SH3, 1986) also found love aboard the ship, marrying BM2 Mike O'Deay in 1992.
**Challenges and Hardships** Not all memories are rosy, as some crew members faced challenges during their service. Mark Barbieri (ET2, 1991) raises concerns about asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, while Jayla Bell (E-2, 1992) reflects on the harsh treatment of personnel. Despite these difficulties, the overall tone of the posts is one of gratitude and fondness for the experiences and friendships formed.
**A Diverse Crew** The guestbook entries highlight the diverse roles and backgrounds of the crew members. From dental technicians like Roger Robitaille (DT2, 1970) to machinist mates like Robert Stelman (MR2, 1979), and from barbers like Dennis Murphy (SH3, 1979) to corrections specialists like Joyce Babonis (MA2, 1984), the USS Puget Sound was home to a wide range of talents and personalities.
**Legacy and Impact** The legacy of the USS Puget Sound is evident in the pride and nostalgia expressed by its former crew. Many, like David Allen (E5/DS2, 1980) and Brian Achilli (OM2, 1970), describe their time on the ship as some of the best years of their lives. The ship's decommissioning in 1995, as noted by Coy Adams (ETC(SW), 1995), marked the end of an era, but the memories and friendships forged aboard the USS Puget Sound continue to endure.
In summary, the guestbook posts from the USS Puget Sound (AD-38) crew members offer a rich tapestry of memories, highlighting the camaraderie, adventures, and lasting impact of their time aboard the ship. From the vibrant streets of Gaeta to the challenges faced at sea, these experiences have left an indelible mark on the lives of those who served.
USS Puget Sound AD-38: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Puget Sound (AD-38) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, always evolving to meet the needs of its time. Commissioned in 1968, it was a powerhouse of repair facilities, boasting machine shops, foundries, and electronic repair stations. Over the years, it got some impressive upgrades. Think advanced radar and communication systems, better propulsion, and more comfortable living quarters for the crew. These changes kept the ship running smoothly and made it even more effective in supporting other naval vessels.
As a destroyer tender, the USS Puget Sound had a big job. It was all about maintenance and logistical support for destroyers and smaller combat ships. Whether it was routine repairs or emergency fixes during combat, this ship was ready. Its onboard facilities could handle hull repairs, engine overhauls, and electronic troubleshooting. Plus, it could supply fuel, ammo, and other essentials, keeping the fleet ready for action without needing to head back to port.
The USS Puget Sound was more than just a technical marvel. It was a key player in the Navy's strategy, especially during the Cold War. Acting as a mobile repair and supply station, it allowed the fleet to stay out at sea longer and reach further. This was crucial for maintaining a strong and flexible presence in global hotspots. The ship's ability to provide quick and comprehensive support meant combat vessels could stay on station longer, boosting the Navy's strategic reach.
But the USS Puget Sound wasn't just about technical and logistical support. It was a hub of camaraderie and cooperation. Its travels took it from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, where it participated in joint exercises and collaborations with allied navies. This helped strengthen international maritime partnerships. The crew also took part in humanitarian missions, offering aid during natural disasters and crises. These efforts showed that the USS Puget Sound was more than a support vessel; it was a vital part of the U.S. Navy's global mission.
USS Puget Sound AD-38: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Puget Sound (AD-38) was a powerhouse in keeping the U.S. Navy's fleet ready and raring to go. Commissioned in 1968, this ship was all about repair and maintenance, making sure other vessels stayed in top shape. It traveled far and wide, from the Mediterranean to the North Atlantic and the Indian Ocean, always supporting the Navy's global reach and readiness, especially when tensions were high.
While the Puget Sound wasn't directly involved in combat during the Vietnam War, it was a crucial support player, ensuring combat ships were repaired and ready to return to action. During the Gulf War, it was stationed in the Persian Gulf, providing essential maintenance and logistical support for Operation Desert Storm. The ship's knack for quick, complex repairs kept the Navy moving smoothly during these critical times.
The Puget Sound's hard work didn't go unnoticed. It earned several awards, like the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation, celebrating its outstanding service. The ship also snagged multiple Battle Efficiency (Battle "E") Awards, a nod to its top-notch combat readiness and operational excellence. These honors highlighted the ship's dedication to the fleet and the Navy's mission.
Beyond its military duties, the Puget Sound shone in humanitarian efforts and international cooperation. It took part in joint exercises with allied navies, building stronger bonds and improving teamwork. The ship also stepped up in disaster relief, offering crucial help to areas hit by natural disasters. These missions showed off the ship's versatility and the Navy's role in promoting global stability and goodwill. The legacy of the USS Puget Sound (AD-38) is a lasting reminder of its impact on naval operations and its contributions to both military and humanitarian efforts.
USS Puget Sound AD-38 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Samuel Gompers Class Destroyer Tender |
| Commissioned | April 27, 1968 |
| Displacement | 20,500 tons |
| Length | 643 feet |
| Beam | 85 feet |
| Draft | 24.4 feet |
| Speed | 20 knots |
| Complement | 106 Officers 1,313 Enlisted |