USS Strong DD-758
The USS Strong (DD-758) was a remarkable ship in the United States Navy, built during a time of major naval growth and tech leaps. Her keel was laid down on 25 July 1943 at the Bethlehem Steel Corporation's Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts. This shipyard was famous for its speed and quality, helping to quickly build strong naval ships during World War II. The USS Strong was launched on 23 April 1944 and commissioned on 8 March 1945, officially joining the fleet. Her construction showed off American industrial strength and the nation's drive to keep a powerful and flexible navy.
The ship was named after James H. Strong, a key figure in U.S. Navy history. Rear Admiral James H. Strong was a standout during the American Civil War, especially noted for his actions at the Battle of Mobile Bay. His leadership and courage were the kind of qualities the Navy wanted in its ships and crew. Naming the ship after him honored his legacy and reminded everyone of the bravery and dedication expected on the USS Strong.
The USS Strong had some standout features, especially in her armament and design, reflecting the tech advances of the time. As a Sumner-class destroyer, she was packed with weapons for both attack and defense. She had six 5-inch/38 caliber guns, twelve 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and ten 21-inch torpedo tubes. Her design also included advanced radar and sonar systems, boosting her abilities in both surface and anti-submarine warfare. These features made the USS Strong a powerful force at sea, ready to tackle various threats.
The legacy of the USS Strong in the US Navy is marked by her service contributions. She played a key role in several naval operations, showing off the effectiveness and versatility of the Sumner-class destroyers. The USS Strong took part in important naval engagements and support missions, highlighting the crucial role of destroyers in maintaining naval dominance and achieving strategic goals. Her performance and the dedication of her crew left a lasting mark on naval tactics and the development of future destroyer classes.
The USS Strong was part of the Sumner-class destroyers, designed to improve on the earlier Fletcher-class destroyers. The Sumner-class had a larger hull and an extra twin 5-inch gun mount, offering more firepower and stability. These destroyers were built to be multi-role ships, capable of handling a wide range of tasks, including anti-aircraft, anti-submarine, and surface warfare. This versatility made them invaluable in both offensive and defensive naval operations, boosting the overall effectiveness of the US Navy during and after World War II.
Commissioning the USS Strong marked the start of her active service, during which she took on numerous missions and assignments. The commissioning ceremony on 8 March 1945 was a big deal, symbolizing the ship and her crew's readiness to join the fleet and support the war effort. The USS Strong's commissioning came at a crucial time, as the Allies were ramping up operations in the Pacific Theater. Her entry into service added to the growing strength of the US Navy, enhancing its capabilities and supporting its mission to secure victory in World War II.
USS Strong DD-758: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Strong (DD-758) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, a class celebrated for its sturdy design and adaptability. It stretched 376 feet long and had a beam of 40 feet, making it a stable platform for various naval missions. Built with high-tensile steel, it was tough enough to handle the rough seas. Its superstructure was cleverly designed to reduce radar visibility, a pretty advanced feature for its time. Inside, the ship had multiple decks, each with a specific purpose, from crew quarters to command centers, ensuring smooth operations and quick reactions in combat.
The USS Strong was packed with cutting-edge technology for its era. It had top-notch systems for navigation, communication, and combat. The ship's radar, likely an SPS-10, was crucial for spotting enemy ships, while its sonar, probably an SQS-4, helped detect submarines. The fire control system was a marvel, integrating data from various sensors to precisely target threats. This tech made the USS Strong effective in all kinds of maritime environments, from the vast ocean to coastal areas.
When it came to firepower, the USS Strong was no slouch. It had six 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns in three twin turrets, ready to take on both surface and air targets. For air defense, it was armed with twelve 40mm Bofors and eleven 20mm Oerlikon cannons, providing a strong shield against enemy aircraft and smaller threats. This mix of weapons allowed the USS Strong to deliver powerful and sustained firepower in various combat situations.
The ship's anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities were impressive too. It had two depth charge racks and six K-gun depth charge projectors to tackle submarine threats. Plus, it was equipped with a Hedgehog anti-submarine mortar, a forward-throwing weapon that launched explosive charges to increase the chances of hitting a submarine. These ASW systems, along with its sonar, made the USS Strong a formidable opponent against underwater threats. This blend of weaponry highlighted the ship's role as a versatile and powerful asset in the US Navy's fleet.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Strong (DD-758) holds a special place in the hearts of many of its former crew members, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span various years and experiences, painting a vivid picture of life aboard the ship.
Richard Daniel, who served as a Seaman (SN) in 1973, fondly recalls his time on the USS Strong as some of the greatest moments of his life. He expresses a desire to reconnect with his shipmates, highlighting the camaraderie and honor he felt while serving.
Herbert Foltz, a Gunner's Mate Third Class (GMG3) in 1969, reminisces about his service alongside Bob Bush (BM3), Steve, and Lenny in the First Division before moving to the Second Division. His journey eventually led him to Vietnam in May 1971, marking a significant transition in his naval career.
Robert Gee, who served as a Boiler Technician Second Class (BT2) in 1963, notes that he has not been in contact with his shipmates since departing from Charleston, SC. Recently retired from the private sector, Gee's brief mention hints at a longing for the connections he once had.
Leroy Trunnell, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FTG2) in 1969, shares a particularly memorable experience of watching the Apollo 11 launch from Cape Kennedy in July 1969. He also recalls the Mediterranean cruise of 1969-70, which included two trips into the Black Sea, before his discharge in June 1970.
Richard Tupa, a Radarman Third Class (RD3) in 1965, reflects on the strong bonds he formed with his fellow sailors, describing his time on the USS Strong as one of the best periods of his life.
Kraft Jim, who served as a Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) in 1964, remembers his time as a fresh new Ensign on the ship. He highlights the memorable Mediterranean cruise in 1965, particularly the visit to Cannes, France, during the film festival.
William Rosenberg, a Boiler Technician (BT) in 1957, is still searching for his buddies Larry Mederious and Fay B. Warren. His post underscores the lasting friendships formed during his service.
Ron Cohen, who served in 1955, informs his shipmates about another site, USSStrong.com, which lists many former crew members. His message is a call to reconnect and preserve the shared history of the USS Strong.
David Blaine, a Fire Control Technician Third Class (FT3) in 1958, is uncertain about his exact service dates but welcomes communication from his shipmates Coley, Gingrich, and others. He recalls transferring to the USS Eaton (DD-510) before the Strong's Mediterranean deployment and his discharge in March 1961.
Ron Ryan, also from the 1955 crew, wishes the founders of the guestbook site luck in locating many shipmates. He mentions another site for "Tin Can Sailors," reflecting the broader community of destroyer veterans.
Bruce Barrus, who served in 1969, shares a vivid memory of his first impression of the USS Strong at Pier PAPA in Charleston, SC. He recalls Captain Delamuera's leadership and a memorable encounter with him years later at a barbecue on Daniel Island, SC. Barrus also mentions his role as the ship's barber and his subsequent transfer to the USS Macdonough (DLG-8) in August 1970. His post is filled with nostalgia for the Mediterranean and Black Sea adventures, including a tense encounter with a fleet of Russian ships.
These shared memories from the USS Strong's crew members highlight the deep bonds, significant experiences, and lasting impact of their time aboard the ship. Each recollection adds a unique thread to the rich tapestry of the USS Strong's history.
USS Strong DD-758: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Strong (DD-758), an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, was a powerhouse in the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945, it was packed with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems for its time, plus a range of anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons. In the 1950s, the Strong got its first big upgrade, with better radar and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) gear. The addition of the Hedgehog anti-submarine mortar and improved sonar made it even better at spotting and tackling underwater threats.
In the 1960s, the USS Strong went through the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program. This was a big deal, aimed at giving World War II-era destroyers a new lease on life. The FRAM overhaul brought in new electronic warfare systems, advanced ASW torpedoes, and the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) system, which let it hit submarines from a distance. The ship's propulsion systems were also revamped for better efficiency and reliability. These changes kept the USS Strong in the game during the Cold War, as military tech was advancing fast.
The USS Strong's missions evolved with its tech upgrades. Originally built for anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare, it took on many roles over the years. During the Korean War, the Strong provided naval gunfire support and patrolled blockades. In the Vietnam War, it showed its versatility with search and rescue missions, cutting off enemy supply lines, and offering naval gunfire support in key operations. The FRAM upgrade's advanced ASW systems let the Strong play a key role in anti-submarine patrols during the Cold War, protecting carrier groups and sea lanes from Soviet subs.
The USS Strong's contributions to the U.S. Navy were huge and varied. Throughout its service, the destroyer showed incredible adaptability and resilience, taking part in many conflicts and peacetime missions. Its knack for integrating new tech and expanding its mission capabilities made it a valuable asset in the ever-changing world of naval warfare. The Strong's role in key operations, like the Cuban Missile Crisis blockade and NATO exercises, highlighted its strategic importance. By constantly upgrading and expanding its mission profile, the USS Strong was a shining example of the enduring value of the Sumner-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy's readiness and global presence.
USS Strong DD-758: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Strong (DD-758) had a remarkable service record, marked by numerous deployments and active participation in major conflicts. Commissioned in 1945, just as World War II was ending, the Strong initially served in the Pacific, playing a crucial role in post-war operations. During the Korean War, the destroyer was deployed to the Korean Peninsula, providing naval gunfire support for United Nations forces. Its agility and firepower were key in several engagements, including the Battle of Pusan Perimeter, where its accurate bombardments helped repel enemy forces and support ground troops.
After the Korean War, the USS Strong remained active during the Cold War. It was often deployed to the Mediterranean Sea with the U.S. Sixth Fleet, conducting patrols and exercises to counter Soviet naval activity. During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the Strong was part of the naval blockade, playing a pivotal role in the U.S. response to the Soviet Union's deployment of nuclear missiles in Cuba. The destroyer's presence in these high-stakes situations underscored its importance in maintaining global maritime security and projecting American naval power.
The Vietnam War saw the USS Strong back in combat operations. Deployed to the waters off Vietnam, the destroyer provided naval gunfire support for U.S. and allied forces, conducted search and rescue missions, and participated in coastal interdiction operations to disrupt enemy supply lines. The ship's versatility and combat readiness were on full display during this period, earning it several commendations for its exemplary performance. The Strong's actions during the Vietnam War highlighted the critical role of naval forces in modern warfare.
Throughout its service life, the USS Strong received numerous awards and commendations, reflecting its outstanding performance and dedication to duty. Among these were multiple Battle Stars for its service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. The ship's crew was also recognized for their exceptional service with various individual awards, including the Navy Achievement Medal and the Navy Commendation Medal. These honors are a testament to the ship's enduring legacy and the unwavering commitment of its crew to the defense of the United States and its allies.
USS Strong DD-758 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Allen M Sumner Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | March 8, 1945 |
| Displacement | 3,218 tons |
| Length | 376.5 feet |
| Beam | 40.7 feet |
| Draft | 14.2 feet |
| Speed | 36.5 knots |
| Complement | 345 |