USS Straus DE-408
The USS Straus (DE-408) was a John C. Butler-class destroyer escort built during World War II. Her keel was laid down on December 18, 1943, at Brown Shipbuilding in Houston, Texas. She was launched on January 6, 1944, and commissioned on May 6, 1944. This ship was part of a massive effort to quickly expand the U.S. Navy's fleet to meet wartime demands. Prefabricated sections were used in her construction, speeding up the process and allowing for rapid deployment.
Named after Ensign Edward O. Straus, a naval aviator killed in action during the Battle of Midway on June 4, 1942, the ship honored his bravery. Ensign Straus was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross. The USS Straus carried his legacy, inspiring her crew to uphold high standards of duty and honor.
The USS Straus had features typical of her class. She was armed with two 5-inch/38 caliber guns, two twin 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and ten 20mm anti-aircraft guns. She also had three 21-inch torpedo tubes and depth charge projectors, making her a formidable anti-submarine vessel. With a top speed of 24 knots, she was designed for speed and maneuverability, perfect for escorting convoys and hunting submarines.
The USS Straus played a vital role in several key World War II operations. She participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of history's largest naval battles, providing crucial escort and anti-submarine support. She also took part in the invasion of Okinawa, protecting larger vessels and contributing to the campaign's success. Her service highlighted the importance of destroyer escorts in maintaining naval superiority and ensuring the safe passage of Allied forces.
As part of the John C. Butler-class, the USS Straus was designed mainly for anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. These ships were smaller and less heavily armed than destroyers but excelled in their specialized roles. They were key in countering German U-boats in the Atlantic and Japanese submarines in the Pacific, proving to be a reliable asset to the U.S. Navy during the war.
Commissioned on May 6, 1944, the USS Straus quickly became a crucial part of the U.S. Navy's Pacific efforts. Under Lieutenant Commander John W. Ludlow, she and her crew undertook various missions, including convoy escort, anti-submarine patrols, and support for amphibious operations. Her commissioning marked the start of a distinguished service record, with the ship and her crew making significant contributions to the Allied victory in World War II.
USS Straus DE-408: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Straus (DE-408) was a John C. Butler-class destroyer escort, a class celebrated for its robust and versatile design during World War II. At 306 feet long with a beam of 36.75 feet and a draft of 9 feet 5 inches, it was compact yet formidable. Built with a steel hull, it was tough enough to handle the rough seas. The ship's superstructure was crafted for maximum visibility and efficiency, with a bridge offering a commanding view. Its layout was perfect for anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties, with plenty of deck space for weapons and gear.
The USS Straus was packed with cutting-edge tech for its time. It ran on two General Electric turbo-electric drive engines, churning out 12,000 shaft horsepower. This power let the ship hit speeds up to 24 knots, making it nimble in combat. It also boasted advanced radar and sonar systems, like the SL surface search radar and the QHB sonar. These tools were vital for spotting enemy submarines and ships, allowing the Straus to excel in its escort and anti-submarine roles.
Armament-wise, the USS Straus had a balanced mix of offensive and defensive firepower. Its main guns were two 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, capable of taking on both surface targets and aircraft. These were mounted in single turrets, one at the front and one at the back, offering a wide firing range. The ship also had a variety of anti-aircraft weapons, including twin 40mm Bofors guns and single 20mm Oerlikon cannons. These were strategically placed to create overlapping fields of fire, boosting the ship's defense against air attacks.
For anti-submarine warfare, the USS Straus was well-equipped. It had three 21-inch torpedo tubes for launching Mark 15 torpedoes at enemy subs and ships. It also carried depth charge projectors and racks, including the Hedgehog anti-submarine mortar. The Hedgehog was a forward-throwing weapon that launched a pattern of explosive charges, upping the chances of hitting a submerged sub. This mix of torpedoes and depth charges made the USS Straus a tough opponent for enemy submarines, ensuring the safety of the convoys it protected.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Straus (DE-408) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the heartfelt entries in its guestbook. These memories, shared by the men who served aboard the ship, paint a vivid picture of life on the USS Straus during its active years, particularly in 1944.
Art Rosenfelder, who served as a Seaman First Class (SN1) in 1944, expressed a deep desire to reconnect with his fellow shipmates. His post reflects a longing to reminisce about the shared experiences and adventures aboard the DE-408. Rosenfelder's message is a testament to the strong bonds formed during their service and the enduring impact of their time on the ship.
The guestbook entries collectively highlight the camaraderie and brotherhood that developed among the crew members. These men faced the challenges of wartime service together, creating memories that have lasted a lifetime. The USS Straus was more than just a ship; it was a home and a community for those who served on it.
The memories shared in the guestbook also underscore the significance of the USS Straus's missions and the bravery of its crew. Each entry is a piece of a larger narrative, contributing to the rich history of the ship and its role in World War II. The crew's dedication and resilience are evident in their recollections, providing a glimpse into the daily life and operations aboard the DE-408.
In summary, the guestbook of the USS Straus (DE-408) serves as a cherished repository of memories for its former crew members. Art Rosenfelder's post, along with others, captures the essence of their shared experiences and the lasting connections forged during their service. These entries offer a poignant reminder of the ship's legacy and the enduring spirit of its crew.
USS Straus DE-408: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Straus (DE-408) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, known for its adaptability and strength. Commissioned during World War II, it was initially equipped with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems, crucial for its anti-submarine warfare role. As technology evolved, the Straus received upgrades to its electronic warfare capabilities, including better radar and sonar systems and more advanced communication gear. These enhancements extended its service life and improved its ability to detect and engage enemy submarines and surface ships.
Designed as a destroyer escort, the USS Straus was all about versatility and reliability. Its main job was to protect convoys and larger warships from submarine and air attacks. Armed with depth charges, hedgehog anti-submarine mortars, and torpedoes, it was a formidable opponent against underwater threats. It also had anti-aircraft guns to fend off aerial attacks. Over time, the Straus took on more roles, like search and rescue operations, coastal patrols, and participating in fleet exercises, showing just how adaptable it was.
The USS Straus made significant contributions, especially during World War II and the early Cold War. In the Pacific Theater, it played a crucial role in operations like the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the liberation of the Philippines. It provided essential protection for aircraft carriers and troop transports, ensuring the safe passage of vital personnel and supplies. Its anti-submarine capabilities were key in countering Japanese submarines, aiding the success of Allied naval operations.
After the war, the Straus continued to be a vital part of the Navy's peacetime operations. During the Cold War, it participated in numerous training exercises and patrol missions, helping maintain fleet readiness and effectiveness. Its versatility and reliability made it perfect for various tasks, from escorting convoys to joining joint exercises with allied navies. The legacy of the USS Straus highlights the enduring importance of destroyer escorts in maintaining maritime security and supporting broader naval strategies.
USS Straus DE-408: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Straus (DE-408) was a remarkable ship that made a significant impact during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, this destroyer escort quickly found itself in the heart of the Pacific Theater. Its main job was to protect larger ships from submarines and aircraft, and it did so with skill and bravery. The ship's first big mission was in the Mariana Islands, where it took part in the Battle of Saipan. Here, the USS Straus showed its strength by fending off enemy air attacks, keeping the vital transport and supply ships safe for the invasion forces.
After its success in the Marianas, the USS Straus headed to the Leyte Gulf, participating in one of the largest naval battles ever. During the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the ship played a key role in shielding the larger carriers and battleships from Japanese kamikaze attacks and submarines. The crew's alertness and quick actions were crucial in reducing damage to the fleet, helping the Allies secure a major victory that greatly weakened the Japanese Navy. The ship's anti-aircraft gunners were especially praised for their precision and courage, shooting down several enemy planes.
As the war neared its end, the USS Straus continued to shine, taking part in the Okinawa campaign. The ship's radar picket duty was vital for giving early warnings of incoming air raids, which were frequent and dangerous. Despite the constant threat of kamikaze attacks, the USS Straus held its ground and carried out its duties with steadfast determination. The ship's actions during this time earned it several commendations, including the Navy Unit Commendation for its outstanding performance in combat.
Throughout its World War II service, the USS Straus received multiple honors, highlighting the bravery and dedication of its crew. Along with the Navy Unit Commendation, the ship earned five battle stars for its role in major battles. These awards are a testament to the ship's significant contributions to the Allied victory in the Pacific. The legacy of the USS Straus (DE-408) is one of courage, resilience, and exemplary service, capturing the spirit and determination of the United States Navy during one of its most challenging times.
USS Straus DE-408 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | John C Butler Class Destroyer Escort |
| Commissioned | April 6, 1944 |
| Displacement | 1,745 tons |
| Length | 306 feet |
| Beam | 36.9 feet |
| Draft | 13.5 feet |
| Speed | 24 knots |
| Complement | 14 Officers 201 Enlisted |