The USS Weeden (DE-797) was a Buckley-class destroyer escort built in the pressure-cooker days of World War II. It was one of those hardworking ships the Navy needed fast—because convoys, submarines, and long oceans don’t wait. The keel was laid down on 27 August 1943 at the Consolidated Steel Corporation yard in Orange, Texas. The ship was launched on 27 November 1943, and it officially joined the fleet when it was commissioned on 19 February 1944.
Destroyer escorts like Weeden weren’t built to show off. They were built to protect people and cargo. They stood watch on the sea lanes and hunted submarines so bigger operations could keep moving.
The ship was named in honor of Ensign Carl A. Weeden, a naval aviator who was killed in action during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Ensign Weeden's bravery and sacrifice were emblematic of the courage displayed by many young servicemen during the war. Naming the vessel after him served as a tribute to his heroism and ensured that his legacy would be remembered by future generations of sailors who served aboard the USS Weeden.
One of the most important things to know about USS Weeden is this: it was shaped by its mission. Everything about it—from layout to weapons—was tuned for anti-submarine warfare. The ship was equipped with three 3-inch/50 caliber guns, a variety of anti-aircraft guns, and depth charge projectors. Additionally, it featured a hedgehog anti-submarine mortar, which was a forward-throwing weapon that significantly increased the ship's effectiveness against enemy submarines.
Even the propulsion choice told you what the designers cared about. The Buckley-class design also included a turbo-electric drive, which provided greater maneuverability and efficiency compared to traditional steam turbine propulsion systems.
The legacy of the USS Weeden and its sister ships in the Buckley-class is significant in the history of the US Navy. These vessels were instrumental in securing Allied shipping lanes and protecting convoys from the persistent threat of German U-boats in the Atlantic and Japanese submarines in the Pacific. The destroyer escorts' versatility and effectiveness in both offensive and defensive roles demonstrated the importance of having a well-rounded and adaptable fleet, influencing naval strategy and ship design in the post-war era.
The Buckley-class destroyer escorts, including the USS Weeden, were designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare but were also capable of performing a variety of other tasks. These ships were smaller and more maneuverable than traditional destroyers, making them ideal for escorting convoys, conducting patrols, and providing support for amphibious operations. The class was characterized by its balance of speed, firepower, and endurance, which allowed it to operate effectively in a wide range of combat scenarios.
The commissioning of the USS Weeden on 19 February 1944 marked the beginning of its active service in the US Navy. The ship's crew, composed of both seasoned sailors and new recruits, quickly adapted to their roles and responsibilities. Throughout its service, the USS Weeden participated in numerous missions and operations, contributing to the overall success of the Allied war effort. The ship's performance and the dedication of its crew exemplified the resilience and determination of the US Navy during one of the most challenging periods in its history.
USS Weeden DE-797: A Deep Dive into the Structure, Technology, and Firepower of a Naval Guardian
The USS Weeden (DE-797) was a Buckley-class destroyer escort, and that class earned its reputation the hard way—by doing the job, over and over, in rough seas and real threat zones. The ship's structure was characterized by a length of 306 feet and a beam of 37 feet, providing a stable platform for various naval operations. The hull was constructed from welded steel, which offered both strength and flexibility, essential for withstanding the rigors of wartime service. The ship's superstructure was designed to maximize visibility and operational efficiency, featuring a bridge that provided commanding views of the surrounding seas. Below deck, the layout was optimized for crew efficiency and included compartments for living quarters, mess halls, and operational rooms, all interconnected by a network of passageways and ladders.
Technologically, the USS Weeden was equipped with state-of-the-art systems for its time. The ship was powered by turbo-electric drive engines, which combined steam turbines with electric generators to provide a reliable and efficient propulsion system. This allowed the ship to reach speeds of up to 23 knots, making it agile enough to perform escort duties effectively. The radar and sonar systems onboard were cutting-edge, enabling the ship to detect enemy submarines and surface vessels at considerable distances. The ship also featured advanced communication equipment, which was crucial for coordinating with other naval units and ensuring the success of convoy missions.
The armament of the USS Weeden was designed to provide a balanced mix of offensive and defensive capabilities. The primary armament consisted of three 3-inch/50 caliber dual-purpose guns, which were effective against both surface and aerial targets. These guns were mounted on the fore and aft sections of the ship, providing comprehensive coverage. Additionally, the ship was equipped with a variety of anti-submarine weapons, including depth charge projectors and hedgehog anti-submarine mortars. These weapons were essential for the ship's primary role of escorting and protecting convoys from submarine threats. The depth charge projectors could launch explosive charges into the water, creating underwater shockwaves capable of damaging or destroying enemy submarines.
In terms of weaponry, the USS Weeden also featured a complement of smaller arms and defensive systems. The ship was armed with several 20mm Oerlikon anti-aircraft cannons, which provided close-range defense against enemy aircraft. These cannons were strategically placed around the ship to create overlapping fields of fire, enhancing the ship's ability to repel air attacks. Additionally, the ship carried torpedoes, which could be used against larger surface targets. The combination of these weapons made the USS Weeden a formidable adversary, capable of engaging a variety of threats. The ship's crew was trained extensively in the use of these weapons, ensuring that they could respond quickly and effectively to any combat situation.
USS Weeden DE-797 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Weeden (DE-797) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship and the camaraderie that developed among the sailors.
Gary Hanson, who served as a Seaman Apprentice (SA) in 1956, recalls his first experience aboard the USS Weeden. It was a two-week training cruise from Long Beach to Seattle for the Sea Faire. Hanson vividly remembers being extremely seasick on the way up to Seattle, but fortunately, he felt fine on the return trip. This initial bout of seasickness did not deter him from his naval career; in fact, he never experienced seasickness again, even when facing the tumultuous typhoons in the China Sea aboard the USS Douglas A. Munro (DE-422).
Hanson's memory highlights the challenges and adjustments that come with life at sea, especially for those new to the experience. His story also underscores the resilience and adaptability of sailors, who often face and overcome significant physical and mental hurdles. The training cruise to Seattle was not just a journey from one port to another; it was a rite of passage that prepared Hanson for the more demanding conditions he would encounter later in his naval service.
These shared memories from the USS Weeden's guestbook offer a glimpse into the daily lives and experiences of its crew members. They reflect the trials and triumphs of naval service, the bonds formed through shared hardships, and the personal growth that comes from overcoming adversity. Each recollection is a testament to the enduring legacy of the USS Weeden and the men who served aboard her.
USS Weeden DE-797: Evolution of a Naval Guardian
The USS Weeden (DE-797) underwent several significant upgrades throughout its service life, ensuring it remained a formidable asset within the U.S. Navy. Initially commissioned during World War II, the ship was equipped with state-of-the-art anti-submarine warfare (ASW) technology of the time, including depth charge projectors and hedgehog anti-submarine mortars. As the years progressed and technological advancements were made, the Weeden received upgrades to its radar and sonar systems, enhancing its detection and tracking capabilities. These improvements allowed the ship to better identify and engage enemy submarines and surface vessels, maintaining its relevance in an ever-evolving maritime threat environment.
In terms of mission capabilities, the USS Weeden was designed primarily as an escort destroyer, tasked with protecting convoys and larger naval vessels from submarine and air attacks. Its robust ASW suite made it particularly effective in this role, providing a critical layer of defense during transatlantic crossings and in the Pacific theater. Additionally, the Weeden was equipped with anti-aircraft guns, which enabled it to offer some degree of protection against enemy aircraft. Over time, the ship's mission profile expanded to include search and rescue operations, coastal patrols, and even participation in naval exercises that tested and refined the Navy's tactical doctrines.
The USS Weeden's contributions to the fleet were substantial, particularly during World War II and the early Cold War period. During the war, the ship played a vital role in safeguarding supply lines, which were essential for the Allied war effort. Its presence in convoy escort missions helped to deter and neutralize the U-boat threat, ensuring that troops, equipment, and supplies reached their destinations. In the post-war years, the Weeden continued to serve as a reliable platform for ASW operations, contributing to the Navy's strategic posture during the tense early years of the Cold War. The ship's versatility and reliability made it a valuable asset in various naval operations, from routine patrols to high-stakes missions.
The legacy of the USS Weeden is a testament to the importance of continuous upgrades and adaptability in naval warfare. By evolving its capabilities and expanding its mission profile, the Weeden exemplified the dynamic nature of naval service. Its contributions to convoy protection, ASW operations, and broader fleet activities underscore the critical role that escort destroyers played in maintaining maritime security. The ship's service record reflects not only the technological advancements of its time but also the unwavering commitment of its crew to the defense of their nation.
USS Weeden DE-797: A Chronicle of Valor and Vigilance on the High Seas
USS Weeden (DE-797) played a significant role in the United States Navy's operations during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, the destroyer escort was primarily tasked with convoy escort duties in the Atlantic Ocean, safeguarding vital supply lines between the United States and Europe. The ship's robust anti-submarine warfare capabilities made it a formidable adversary against German U-boats, which posed a constant threat to Allied shipping. Throughout its service, USS Weeden successfully escorted numerous convoys, ensuring the safe passage of troops, equipment, and supplies crucial to the war effort.
In addition to its convoy escort missions, USS Weeden was actively involved in several key naval operations. One of its notable deployments was during the Battle of the Atlantic, where it participated in hunter-killer groups designed to seek out and destroy enemy submarines. The ship's crew demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery, contributing to the overall success of these missions. As the war progressed, USS Weeden also provided support for amphibious landings, including the critical D-Day invasion of Normandy, where its presence helped secure the beachheads and protect the landing forces from enemy naval threats.
The exemplary performance of USS Weeden did not go unrecognized. The ship and its crew received several awards and commendations for their service. Among these honors was the Navy Unit Commendation, awarded for outstanding heroism in action against enemy forces. The ship also earned multiple battle stars for its participation in major engagements, reflecting the high level of combat readiness and effectiveness demonstrated by its crew. These accolades are a testament to the ship's significant contributions to the Allied victory in World War II.
After the war, USS Weeden continued to serve with distinction during the early years of the Cold War. The ship was involved in various peacetime operations, including training exercises and goodwill visits to allied nations. Although it was eventually decommissioned and struck from the Naval Vessel Register, the legacy of USS Weeden lives on through its storied history and the valor of its crew. The ship's deployments, role in major conflicts, and the numerous awards and commendations it received highlight its importance in the annals of naval history.
USS Weeden DE-797 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Buckley Class Destroyer Escort |
| Commissioned | February 19, 1944 |
| Displacement | 1,740 tons |
| Length | 306 feet |
| Beam | 36.9 feet |
| Draft | 10.6 feet |
| Speed | 24 knots |
| Complement | 213 |