The USS Albert W Grant DD-649, a Fletcher class destroyer was built in Kearny, New Jersey by the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company during World War II. It was launched on 28 February 1943. Named after Rear Admiral Albert W. Grant, known for his leadership, in the US Navy during the Spanish American War and World War I. The ships armament included five 5 inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21 inch torpedo tubes and various anti-aircraft guns making it a formidable presence in battles of that era. With a speed exceeding 35 knots the USS Albert W Grant DD 649 could swiftly respond to threats. Engage enemy vessels.
Throughout World War II this destroyer played a role in battles and operations such as the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle of Okinawa. The crew's bravery and skill in combat earned them awards and citations for their actions. The USS Albert W Grant DD 649 left behind a lasting legacy, in the history of the US Navy.The USS Albert W Grant DD 649 played a role, in war activities including its use as a training ship for new recruits.
Being part of the Fletcher class destroyers the USS Albert W Grant DD-649 belonged to the type of destroyers constructed during World War II. These vessels were renowned for their speed, firepower and adaptability making them assets in the US Navy's fleet. The main objective of the Fletcher class destroyers was to offer escort and safeguard for ships while engaging enemy vessels and aircraft in battle.
Commissioned on 15 June 1943 under the command of Commander William R. Purnell, the USS Albert W Grant DD 649 underwent sea trials and training drills before heading to the Pacific Theater of Operations. Joining Task Force 58 this destroyer took part in operations against forces in the Pacific region contributing significantly to the eventual triumph of the Allies, in World War II. Ultimately decommissioned in 1946 the USS Albert W Grant DD-649 was eventually sold for scrap in 1972.
The Mighty USS Albert W Grant DD-649: A Closer Look at the Powerhouse of the US Navy
The USS Albert W Grant DD 649 was a destroyer of the Fletcher class that served in the US Navy during World War II. It was built with a steel hull and superstructure measuring 376 feet long and 39 feet wide. With a displacement of 2,050 tons it was powered by four Babcock & Wilcox boilers driving two General Electric geared steam turbines enabling a speed of 36.5 knots.
In terms of technology the USS Albert W Grant was equipped with radar and sonar systems, for navigation and enemy vessel detection. It also featured a fire control system for targeting of its weaponry. The ship had a communications suite to coordinate with naval units and shore facilities enhancing its effectiveness in combat operations.
The armament of the USS Albert W Grant consisted of five 5 inch/38 caliber dual purpose guns, ten 40mm aircraft guns, seven 20mm anti-aircraft guns, ten 21-inch torpedo tubes and depth charges, for anti-submarine warfare. These weapons provided the ship with both defensive capabilities to effectively engage enemy surface ships, aircraft and submarines.
During World War II the USS Albert W Grant DD 649 proved to be a destroyer, with its weaponry and advanced technology. It was a player in the Pacific Theater thanks to its speed, firepower and cutting-edge systems that greatly supported the forces and their victories, in the war.
USS Albert W Grant DD-649 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Albert W. Grant (DD-649) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crewmembers, as evidenced by the heartfelt memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections paint a vivid picture of the ship's storied past and the brave men who served aboard her during some of the most challenging times in history.Bernard Doyle, who served as a Radarman Third Class (RDM3) in 1943, reflects on his time aboard the USS Albert W. Grant with a sense of enduring pride and nostalgia. At 96 years old, Doyle still cherishes the many memories and stories from his tour of duty. His interest in the reunion stories shared by fellow shipmates, S. Grant and M. Hylton, underscores the lasting bonds formed during their service.
Harold Carlson, who served as a Torpedoman Second Class (TM-2) in 1943, has a unique connection to the ship's legacy through his daughter. She played a significant role in assisting with the rough draft of "Common Men Uncommon Valor," a book by Terry McGarty and Elaine (Carlson) Dorland. This contribution highlights the importance of preserving the stories and valor of the men who served on the USS Albert W. Grant, ensuring that their sacrifices are remembered by future generations.
Edmund Hill, who served as a Water Tender Third Class (WT3) in 1942, is remembered through the words of his family. Known affectionately as "Hilly," Ed Hill was aboard the USS Albert W. Grant during the Battle of Surigao Strait. His family proudly recalls the heroism of the men who served on the ship, emphasizing that they were all heroes from the Greatest Generation. They stress the importance of never forgetting the sacrifices made by these brave individuals, which have allowed subsequent generations to enjoy the freedoms they have today.
These shared memories from the crewmembers of the USS Albert W. Grant (DD-649) offer a poignant reminder of the ship's significant role in history and the enduring legacy of those who served aboard her. Their stories of bravery, camaraderie, and dedication continue to inspire and remind us of the profound impact of their service.
USS Albert W. Grant DD-649: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse
Upgrades, Mission Capabilities and Contribution, to the Fleet
The USS Albert W. Grant (DD 649) underwent enhancements during its time in service improving its combat effectiveness and operational flexibility. Initially put into service in 1943 the ship was outfitted with cutting edge radar and sonar systems of that era playing a role in submarine warfare and surface detection. As technology progressed the vessel received updates to its electronic warfare systems, including advancements in radar and fire control systems. These modifications ensured that the USS Albert W. Grant remained an asset within the Navys resources of adapting to the changing landscape of naval combat.
Regarding its mission capabilities the USS Albert W. Grant was constructed as a Fletcher class destroyer giving it versatility across combat scenarios. Armed with five 5 inch/38 caliber guns, ten 21-inch torpedo tubes and an array of aircraft guns it was well equipped for engagements, on both sea and air fronts. Its strong anti-submarine warfare abilities were further strengthened by the inclusion of depth charge projectors and hedgehog anti-submarine mortars.
The USS Albert W. Grant had a variety of capabilities that allowed it to carry out a range of tasks, such, as escorting convoys providing naval gunfire support conducting submarine patrols and engaging enemy surface vessels.
During World War II the USS Albert W. Grant made contributions to the fleet. It played a role in operations like the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which was one of the biggest naval battles in history. Despite sustaining damage from enemy fire during this battle the ship showed resilience and combat effectiveness. The crew's efforts kept the ship functioning and able to offer support to the fleet. The USS Albert W. Grant received battle stars and commendations for its ability to perform under fire showcasing its role in Allied naval operations success.
After its wartime service the USS Albert W. Grant remained an asset during the stages of the Cold War. The ship took part in training exercises and fleet maneuvers that helped maintain the US Navys readiness and efficiency. Equipped with radar and sonar systems well as versatile weaponry it served as an excellent platform, for testing new tactics and technologies.
The history of the USS Albert W. Grant highlights the significance of enhancements and flexibility in upholding dominance. Its performance history illustrates the ships lasting contribution to the fleet and its crucial impact on shaping tactics during an era in history.
USS Albert W. Grant DD-649: A Legacy of Valor and Service on the High Seas
Deployments, Contributions, in Major Conflicts, Recognitions and Praises
The USS Albert W. Grant (DD 649) was a destroyer of the Fletcher class that played a role in significant operations during World War II. It entered service in November 1943. Was immediately involved in the actions of the Pacific Theater. Initially assigned to escort convoys and conduct submarine patrols the ship played a crucial role in safeguarding supply routes and ensuring the secure transit of troops and supplies. Its speed and firepower proved essential in these tasks paving the way for its prominent roles in subsequent major conflicts.
One of its involvements was during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in October 1944 recognized as one of history's largest naval battles. Operating within the Seventh Fleet USS Albert W. Grant had an impact on the Battle of Surigao Strait marking it as the battleship-to-battleship engagement recorded in naval history. Despite sustaining damage, from fire the ship continued to engage bravely contributing significantly to Japan's fleets decisive defeat. The ships endurance and the courage displayed by its crew during this battle highlighted its significance within the scope of Pacific War campaigns.
The USS Albert W. Grant not fulfilled combat duties but also played a role, in post war activities, such as handling occupation responsibilities in Japan and China. These deployments were crucial for maintaining stability in the region and aiding the transition to peacetime. Its presence helped enforce surrender terms. Offered a sense of security during a time of geopolitical change. The ships adaptability and reliability in these missions solidified its reputation as an trustworthy vessel.
The distinguished service of the USS Albert W. Grant did not go unnoticed. It received accolades, including the Navy Unit Commendation for its performance during the Battle of Leyte Gulf. It was awarded eight battle stars for its contributions to World War II showcasing its involvement in operations and battles. These honors reflect the ship's role, in supporting the Allied war efforts and highlight the courage and commitment of its crew members. The legacy of the USS Albert W. Grant lives on as a symbol of naval excellence and bravery that is honored and cherished.
USS Albert W Grant DD-649 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Fletcher Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | November 24, 1943 |
| Displacement | 2,924 tons |
| Length | 377 feet |
| Beam | 40 feet |
| Draft | 13.8 feet |
| Speed | 38 knots |
| Complement | 9 Officers 264 Enlisted |
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