USS Samuel N Moore DD-747
The USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, built during World War II's rapid naval expansion. It was laid down on 30 April 1944 at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation's shipyard in San Pedro, California. This construction showcased America's industrial strength and shipbuilding speed during the war. Launched on 23 September 1944, the ship underwent sea trials and outfitting before being commissioned on 24 January 1945. It was part of a larger effort to strengthen the Navy with versatile destroyers for both offensive and defensive roles.
Named after Samuel N. Moore, a distinguished naval officer from the War of 1812, the ship honored his legacy of valor and leadership. The USS Samuel N. Moore carried this spirit forward, symbolizing the Navy's rich history and commitment to excellence.
As an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, the ship boasted improved armament, radar, and anti-submarine capabilities. It was armed with six 5-inch/38 caliber guns, twelve 40 mm anti-aircraft guns, and eleven 20 mm anti-aircraft guns, offering significant firepower. Advanced sonar and radar systems enhanced its ability to detect and engage enemy submarines and aircraft. The design also improved living quarters, making it more effective and comfortable for the crew.
The USS Samuel N. Moore's legacy is significant, exemplifying the versatility and effectiveness of the Allen M. Sumner-class destroyers. These ships played crucial roles in World War II and the Korean War, excelling in surface combat and anti-submarine warfare. The USS Samuel N. Moore participated in key operations, including convoy escorts, naval gunfire support, and engaging enemy forces. Its service record contributed to the Navy's success and highlighted the importance of destroyers in modern warfare.
Allen M. Sumner-class destroyers were designed to meet the evolving needs of mid-20th-century naval warfare. They combined firepower, speed, and maneuverability, making them suitable for various missions. These destroyers protected larger ships, conducted anti-submarine patrols, and engaged enemy vessels. Their versatility made them invaluable assets, adapting to different combat scenarios and enhancing naval operations.
The commissioning of the USS Samuel N. Moore marked the start of its active service in the Pacific Fleet during the final stages of World War II. The crew underwent extensive training for diverse missions. The commissioning ceremony was a proud moment, as the ship and crew were ready to contribute significantly to the war effort. The USS Samuel N. Moore's entry into service reflected the Navy's strategic focus on deploying capable destroyers to maintain maritime superiority and support allied operations worldwide.
USS Samuel N Moore DD-747: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747) was a Sumner-class destroyer, a class celebrated for its robust design and versatility. It stretched 376 feet long and had a beam of 40 feet, making it a solid platform for various naval operations. Built with high-tensile steel, the hull was both durable and resilient in combat. Its superstructure housed advanced radar and communication systems, ensuring effective coordination with other vessels and command centers. The ship's layout was optimized for both offense and defense, with strategically placed compartments and bulkheads to enhance survivability if damaged.
Technologically, the USS Samuel N. Moore was ahead of its time. It boasted advanced radar and sonar equipment crucial for detecting enemy submarines and surface ships. The SG surface search radar and SC air search radar provided comprehensive situational awareness. The QHB sonar allowed for precise detection of underwater threats. Additionally, the ship featured a Mark 37 Gun Fire Control System, integrating radar data to improve the accuracy of its main battery guns. These advancements made the USS Samuel N. Moore a formidable presence in naval engagements.
The ship's armament was designed for powerful offensive capabilities. It was equipped with three twin 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, effective against both surface and air targets. These guns had a high rate of fire and delivered shells with pinpoint accuracy, thanks to the advanced fire control systems. Alongside the main battery, the ship carried twelve 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and eleven 20mm Oerlikon cannons. These smaller caliber weapons provided a dense layer of anti-aircraft defense, capable of engaging enemy aircraft at various ranges. This combination of armaments ensured the USS Samuel N. Moore could defend itself against a wide array of threats.
The ship's weaponry extended beyond guns to include torpedoes and depth charges, enhancing its anti-submarine warfare capabilities. It was equipped with ten 21-inch torpedo tubes arranged in two quintuple mounts, capable of launching the Mark 15 torpedo. These torpedoes were designed to target enemy ships with devastating effect. For anti-submarine warfare, the ship carried depth charge projectors and racks, deploying depth charges to various depths to neutralize underwater threats. The integration of these weapons systems allowed the USS Samuel N. Moore to perform a variety of roles, from escorting convoys to engaging enemy submarines and surface ships, making it a versatile and valuable asset to the US Navy.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747), affectionately known as the "Rammin' Sammy," holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning from its commissioning in 1944 to its various missions during the Vietnam War. The guestbook entries from these sailors provide a vivid tapestry of life aboard the destroyer, highlighting camaraderie, significant events, and personal milestones.
**Early Years and Korean War:** Lloyd Bohler, who served in 1951 as an EM2, recalls a dramatic incident involving a Communist Chinese submarine that caught fire. He and another sailor helped extinguish the flames, a testament to the unpredictable and dangerous nature of their missions. David Gibson, who served in 1955 as a GMG3, mentions the ship's nickname, "Rammin' Sammy," which he believes originated from an incident where the ship ran into a pier in Okinawa.
**1950s Operations:** Gary Andrew, who served in 1956 as a DK2, reminisces about three WestPac cruises and a short trip to the Aleutian Islands, serving under three different captains and disbursing officers. David Blomstrom, also aboard in 1956, transferred from the USS Baltimore and recalls making SK2 while on the Moore. Ray Valero's son, Benjamin, shares that his father served proudly from 1953 to 1957, highlighting the pride and legacy carried by the families of these sailors.
**Vietnam War Era:** The 1960s were marked by intense activity and significant events. Milt Bauguess, who served in 1965 as an ENS, questions whether the Moore was the only destroyer to navigate the Saigon River without losing its sonar dome, a feat that underscores the ship's resilience. Mike Brown, who served in 1964 as an RD3, recalls the Gulf of Tonkin engagement and the ship's role as "Station Ship South China Sea," flying its flag proudly during replenishments.
Nick George, a BTFN in 1967, paints a vivid picture of life during river operations, with guns firing all night and rust falling on his bunk. Phillip Glick, an ETN3 in 1967, remembers a Christmas Day recall that led to a ten-day pursuit of a Russian trawler, showcasing the constant state of readiness and tension during the Cold War.
**Personal Reflections and Connections:** Many sailors reflect on the friendships and connections made aboard the Moore. Robert Brown, a SN in 1961, seeks information about a friend and former navigation officer, Jim Williams. Leroy Howard, a SM3 in 1959, expresses a desire to reconnect with his signal gang mates, highlighting the lasting bonds formed during service.
Tom Groves, who served in various capacities from 1962 to 1963, shares multiple entries detailing his journey from a raw seaman apprentice to a YN3 in the Captain's Office. He fondly remembers the ship's operations during Operation Dominic and his transfer to the USS Colahan.
**Post-Service Lives:** Many former crew members went on to lead fulfilling lives after their service. Gary Andrew, who retired in 2014, enjoyed a successful career in investment banking and brokerage securities. Gerald Wasik, who served in 1968, transitioned to a career with the New York City Subways and now works as a consultant. Dennis Peters, a fireman shipfitter in 1968-69, became the owner of a precision machine and manufacturing business before retiring in 2005.
**Reunions and Legacy:** The sense of community among the Moore's crew endures through reunions and associations. Tom Pettit, who served from 1963 to 1964, is the President of the Samuel N. Moore Association and organizes annual reunions, ensuring that the legacy of the "Rammin' Sammy" lives on.
In summary, the memories shared by the crew members of the USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747) reflect a rich history of service, camaraderie, and personal growth. From the Korean War to the Vietnam War, and through the Cold War tensions, the "Rammin' Sammy" and its crew demonstrated resilience, bravery, and a deep sense of duty. These recollections not only honor the ship's storied past but also celebrate the enduring bonds formed aboard this venerable destroyer.
USS Samuel N Moore DD-747: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747) was a remarkable ship that saw many changes during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1944 as an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, it was initially armed with 5-inch guns, anti-aircraft artillery, and torpedo tubes. But as naval warfare evolved, so did the ship. In the 1950s and 1960s, it underwent major upgrades through the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program. These updates included better sonar and radar systems, improved anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, and new weapons like the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) and DASH (Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter) systems. These changes kept the ship relevant and effective in various combat situations.
The USS Samuel N. Moore was versatile, adapting to the Navy's changing needs over the years. Originally designed for anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare, it could also provide naval gunfire support for amphibious operations and escort convoys. After the FRAM upgrades, it became even more effective in ASW operations, crucial during the Cold War. Its advanced sonar and radar systems helped detect and track enemy submarines, while the ASROC and DASH systems allowed it to engage threats from a distance. This flexibility made the Samuel N. Moore a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive operations.
Throughout its service, the USS Samuel N. Moore made significant contributions to the Navy's missions. During World War II, it played a key role in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Okinawa, providing essential anti-aircraft defense and shore bombardment. In the Korean War, it participated in critical missions like the Inchon Landing, where its firepower and agility were crucial. During the Vietnam War, the ship continued to prove its worth by conducting naval gunfire support, patrolling coastal waters, and participating in search and rescue operations. These efforts highlighted the ship's enduring value across multiple conflicts and decades.
The legacy of the USS Samuel N. Moore showcases the adaptability and resilience of the Navy's destroyer fleet. Its numerous upgrades ensured it stayed at the forefront of naval technology, ready to meet the demands of modern warfare. With its diverse mission capabilities, the ship performed a wide range of tasks, from direct combat to support and rescue operations. The Samuel N. Moore's contributions to major conflicts like World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War underscore its critical role in achieving strategic objectives and maintaining maritime security. It served not only as a powerful tool of war but also as a symbol of the Navy's commitment to innovation and excellence.
USS Samuel N Moore DD-747: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Samuel N. Moore (DD-747) had quite the service record, marked by numerous deployments and active participation in major conflicts. Commissioned in 1944, this destroyer quickly found herself in the thick of World War II's final stages. She played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, providing vital support during the Battle of Okinawa and other significant operations. Her duties included anti-submarine warfare, screening for aircraft carriers, and shore bombardment, all critical in weakening Japanese defenses and securing Allied victories. Her agility and firepower made her an indispensable asset in these high-stakes engagements.
After World War II, the USS Samuel N. Moore continued to serve with distinction during the Korean War. Deployed to the Korean Peninsula, she was involved in several key operations, including the famous Inchon Landing in 1950. Her role in providing naval gunfire support and screening for larger vessels was instrumental in the success of United Nations forces. The destroyer also participated in patrol and blockade missions, helping to enforce maritime control and disrupt enemy supply lines. Her contributions during this period underscored the versatility and enduring value of the Fletcher-class destroyers in modern naval warfare.
Beyond her wartime service, the USS Samuel N. Moore was actively involved in various peacetime operations and exercises throughout her career. She took part in numerous training missions, goodwill visits, and joint exercises with allied navies, enhancing international cooperation and readiness. Her deployments took her to various parts of the world, including the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and the Western Pacific. These missions not only demonstrated the ship's operational capabilities but also served to project American naval power and foster diplomatic relations during the Cold War era.
The USS Samuel N. Moore's exemplary service didn't go unnoticed. She earned several awards and commendations, reflecting her significant contributions to national security and international stability. Among her accolades were multiple battle stars for her service in World War II and the Korean War. The ship also received the Navy Unit Commendation for her outstanding performance during specific operations. These honors are a testament to the bravery and dedication of her crew, who upheld the highest standards of naval excellence throughout the ship's active years. The legacy of the USS Samuel N. Moore continues to be remembered and celebrated as a symbol of American naval prowess and resilience.
USS Samuel N Moore DD-747 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Allen M Sumner Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | June 24, 1944 |
| Displacement | 3,218 tons |
| Length | 376.5 feet |
| Beam | 40.7 feet |
| Draft | 14.2 feet |
| Speed | 36.5 knots |
| Complement | 345 |