The USS Noa (DD-841) was a Gearing-class destroyer built for the United States Navy during the mid-20th century. Construction commenced on April 26, 1945, at the Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine, a shipyard renowned for its efficient production and superior craftsmanship. The ship was launched on November 30, 1945, and officially entered service on March 2, 1946. Its construction was part of a broader initiative to modernize and strengthen the U.S. Navy's fleet after World War II, ensuring a versatile and capable maritime force.
The USS Noa (DD-841) had a distinguished service history, marked by deployments and active involvement in critical conflicts. Commissioned in 1946, this Gearing-class destroyer began its operational journey in the Mediterranean with the U.S. Sixth Fleet, contributing to post-World War II stabilization efforts. In the 1950s, the Noa frequently operated in the Caribbean, participating in training exercises and goodwill missions that solidified its reputation as a reliable asset within the U.S. Navy's surface fleet.
During the Korean War, the USS Noa supported United Nations forces by providing escort and patrol services. Though not directly engaged in combat, the ship ensured the safe passage of supply convoys and troop movements, demonstrating its adaptability and strategic importance in naval operations.
In the years following the Korean War, the Noa continued to serve in both Atlantic and Mediterranean waters, participating in NATO exercises and maintaining a strong presence during the tense periods of the Cold War. A defining moment in the ship’s history came during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. As tensions escalated between the United States and the Soviet Union, the USS Noa played a crucial role in enforcing the naval blockade around Cuba. Its efforts in monitoring and intercepting vessels were instrumental in resolving the crisis peacefully.
The USS Noa also contributed significantly during the Vietnam War, when it was deployed to the Western Pacific. There, the destroyer provided naval gunfire support and conducted rescue missions, showcasing its effectiveness in combat and humanitarian operations alike. These missions highlighted the ship’s versatility and reliability in high-stakes environments.
Throughout its service, the USS Noa earned numerous accolades. The crew’s professionalism and exemplary performance during the Cuban Missile Crisis were recognized with a Navy Unit Commendation. Additionally, the ship was awarded campaign medals for its contributions to both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, underscoring its vital role in U.S. naval operations and its enduring impact on the fleet.
The destroyer was named in honor of Midshipman Loveman Noa, a naval officer who displayed remarkable courage during the Spanish-American War. Noa lost his life in 1898 during the Battle of Cárdenas, and naming the vessel after him served as a tribute to his heroism. This tradition of commemorating distinguished naval figures through ship names helps preserve the history and values of service, sacrifice, and dedication within the Navy.
Equipped with state-of-the-art radar and sonar systems for its time, the USS Noa was a cutting-edge vessel. It was armed with 5-inch guns, anti-aircraft artillery, and torpedo tubes, making it formidable in both surface and anti-submarine warfare. Designed for speed, maneuverability, and firepower, the destroyer was capable of handling a wide range of missions, from escort duties to direct combat engagements. Its sleek design and powerful engines symbolized innovation and strength, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to maintaining technological superiority.
The USS Noa played a significant role in U.S. Navy operations throughout its career. It was actively involved in Cold War strategies, participating in NATO exercises and patrolling critical waters in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the USS Noa contributed to the naval blockade, underscoring its readiness and strategic importance during periods of heightened tension. These missions highlighted the versatility and resilience of Gearing-class destroyers, which remained integral to the Navy's fleet for decades.
As a Gearing-class destroyer, the USS Noa represented a significant evolution from earlier Fletcher and Allen M. Sumner-class designs. The Gearing class featured longer hulls to accommodate additional fuel, increasing operational range, and enhanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Alongside its sister ships, the USS Noa was tasked with safeguarding the fleet, countering enemy submarines, and supporting a variety of naval operations. These advancements played a pivotal role in shaping post-World War II naval strategy.
The USS Noa's commissioning on March 2, 1946, marked the beginning of a distinguished career that spanned more than three decades. The ceremony was attended by naval officials, shipyard workers, and the families of crew members, symbolizing the transition of the destroyer from a construction project to an active component of the U.S. Navy. Over its years of service, the USS Noa earned numerous accolades, leaving a lasting legacy as a testament to the ingenuity, adaptability, and enduring strength of the Navy’s mid-20th-century fleet.
USS Noa DD-841: A Technological Marvel of Naval Warfare
The USS Noa (DD-841) was a Gearing-class destroyer, celebrated for its advanced design and operational versatility. Launched in 1945, the vessel measured 390 feet in length and 41 feet in width, offering a robust platform for a wide range of naval activities. Its hull, constructed from high-strength steel, ensured durability and resilience in the face of combat challenges. The ship's superstructure was carefully designed to house advanced radar and communication systems, facilitating seamless coordination with other vessels and command units. The internal layout was optimized for tactical efficiency, incorporating crew quarters, operational areas, and ample storage for ammunition and provisions.
Technologically, the USS Noa was equipped with cutting-edge systems for its era. The AN/SPS-6 air search radar and AN/SPS-10 surface search radar significantly enhanced situational awareness, enabling the ship to detect enemy aircraft and vessels with precision and respond swiftly to potential threats. Complementing these capabilities was the SQS-4 sonar system, a vital tool for anti-submarine warfare. Together, these systems established the USS Noa as a formidable presence in both surface and underwater engagements.
The ship’s armament was engineered for power and versatility. It was originally outfitted with six 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns mounted in three turrets, capable of engaging surface and airborne targets with precision over considerable distances. For additional defensive firepower, the USS Noa was armed with twelve 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and eleven 20mm Oerlikon cannons, strategically positioned to provide comprehensive defense coverage. This arsenal allowed the ship to neutralize a range of threats effectively, showcasing its adaptability in combat.
In addition to its surface combat capabilities, the USS Noa was well-equipped for anti-submarine operations. It featured two depth charge racks and six depth charge projectors designed to target enemy submarines with accuracy. Further enhancing its offensive potential were two triple-tube torpedo launchers capable of deploying 21-inch torpedoes against both submarines and surface vessels. These anti-submarine tools, combined with the ship's advanced sonar capabilities, positioned the USS Noa as a critical asset in maintaining maritime dominance and protecting allied naval forces from underwater threats.
The integration of advanced technology, formidable weaponry, and strategic design made the USS Noa a symbol of innovation and strength, underscoring its role as a vital component of the U.S. Navy’s post-World War II fleet.
USS Noa DD-841 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Noa (DD-841) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and numerous global adventures. The guestbook entries from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard this storied vessel, highlighting both the camaraderie and the challenges they faced.
**1950s: Early Adventures and World Travels**
Robert Bertschy, who served as a Radioman Seaman (RMSN) in 1953, recalls a world trip that included a cruise to Londonderry, Ireland. However, the journey was interrupted by a hurricane, forcing the ship to turn back to the Azores. William Jackson, a Seaman (SN) in 1951, and Roger Evans, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FT2) in 1951, both remember the ship's time in the Mediterranean and the Korean War, with Evans particularly noting a memorable Christmas show put on by officers dressed as girls.
**1960s: Project Mercury and Mediterranean Cruises**
The 1960s were marked by significant events, including the recovery of John Glenn's Friendship Seven capsule during Project Mercury. Wilfredo Lucero, a Steward First Class (SD1) in 1961, proudly recalls this mission. Richard Edom, a Fire Control Technician Second Class (FT2) in 1961, and William Jacobs, a Radarman Third Class (RD3) in 1960, also served during this historic period. The ship's involvement in NATO exercises and Mediterranean cruises is a recurring theme, with Heber Dale Hellewell, an Electrician's Mate (E2) in 1960, and George Ruwwe, a Lieutenant (LT) in 1962, both highlighting these deployments.
**1967-1969: Storms, Collisions, and Vietnam**
The late 1960s brought both excitement and peril. Bob Ferguson, a Seaman (SN) in 1967, and William White, a Yeoman Third Class (YN3) in 1966, recall a severe storm in the North Atlantic and a collision with the USS Waccamaw. Alan Brown, a Seaman (SN) in 1968, and Jim Hunt, a Radarman Third Class (RD3) in 1968, both emphasize the strong sense of camaraderie among the crew. Robert Barrie, a Boatswain's Mate Third Class (BM-3) in 1968, and Neil Hart, a Sonar Technician Second Class (STG2) in 1968, recount their experiences during the WestPac deployment and Vietnam tour.
**1970s: Middle East Cruises and Decommissioning**
The 1970s saw the USS Noa undertaking multiple Middle East cruises. Alfred Little, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1971, and Pat Ruscin, a Postal Clerk Third Class (PC3) in 1971, both served during the ship's final Mideast deployment. Eddie Morris, a Machinist's Mate Third Class (MM3) in 1970, and Fred Stanley, a Boatswain's Mate Second Class (BM2) in 1970, recall the ship's time in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. The ship's decommissioning in 1973 is remembered by Thomas Arnold, an Engineman Fireman (ENFN) in 1973, and Dan Watkins, an Electronics Technician Third Class (ETN3) in 1972, who were part of the crew that handed the ship over to the Spanish Navy.
**Personal Reflections and Lasting Friendships**
Many crew members reflect on the lasting friendships and life-changing experiences they had aboard the USS Noa. Duke Ellington, a Machinist's Mate Fireman (MMFN) in 1972, fondly remembers his time in Mozambique, despite a near-death experience. John Ponzo, a Sonar Technician Seaman (STGSN) in 1972, and Mervin Rozzell, an E3 in 1972, both cherish the friendships they made during their service. The sense of pride and nostalgia is palpable in the words of these sailors, who often express a desire to reconnect with their former shipmates.
**Reunions and Remembrance**
Bruce Lindeman, a Lieutenant Junior Grade (LT(jg)) in 1964, took the initiative to coordinate a USS Noa reunion in 2008, demonstrating the enduring bond among the crew. The guestbook entries also serve as a poignant reminder of those who have passed away, such as John G. Strohaker, who served in 1970, and whose obituary is mentioned by a fellow sailor.
In summary, the memories shared by the crew members of the USS Noa (DD-841) reflect a rich tapestry of experiences, from historic missions and global travels to personal growth and lifelong friendships. These recollections not only honor the ship's legacy but also celebrate the enduring spirit of those who served aboard her.
USS Noa DD-841: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse and Its Legacy in the Fleet
The USS Noa (DD-841), a Gearing-class destroyer, underwent significant upgrades throughout its service life, ensuring its continued relevance as a vital asset to the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1946, the Noa initially featured advanced radar and sonar systems for its time, complemented by a robust arsenal of guns and torpedoes. However, as naval technology evolved, so too did the capabilities of the Noa, enabling it to meet the demands of modern warfare.
In the 1950s, the USS Noa underwent modernization through the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, a pivotal initiative to extend the operational lifespan of Navy destroyers. This upgrade included the installation of advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) equipment, such as the SQS-23 sonar and the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) system, significantly enhancing the ship’s ability to detect and neutralize enemy submarines. The addition of the DASH (Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter) system further expanded its ASW capabilities, solidifying its role in Cold War maritime strategy.
Originally designed for anti-aircraft and surface warfare duties, the Noa’s modernization allowed it to take on a broader range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare. Its flexibility enabled the ship to perform diverse tasks such as escorting aircraft carriers, conducting patrols, and participating in search and rescue operations. This adaptability reflected the foresight of naval planners who ensured the USS Noa remained capable of addressing the challenges posed by evolving threats.
The USS Noa played a significant role in key historical events. During the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, the destroyer was instrumental in enforcing the naval blockade, helping to impose the quarantine that prevented Soviet ships from delivering additional missiles to Cuba. Its readiness and presence contributed to the pressure that ultimately led to the crisis’s peaceful resolution.
In the Vietnam War, the Noa provided critical naval gunfire support for ground troops and participated in coastal interdiction missions, disrupting enemy supply lines. Its ability to deliver sustained and precise firepower made it an invaluable asset during these operations.
Beyond combat, the USS Noa also participated in humanitarian and national endeavors. In 1962, the ship recovered astronaut John Glenn and his Mercury spacecraft, Friendship 7, after his historic orbital flight around Earth. This mission underscored the ship’s versatility and highlighted the Navy’s role in advancing national objectives beyond traditional military activities.
Throughout its service, the USS Noa exemplified the adaptability and resilience of the U.S. Navy’s destroyer fleet. Its continual evolution and contributions to critical missions underscored its importance in maintaining global stability and security.
USS Noa DD-841: A Legacy of Valor on the High Seas
The USS Noa (DD 841) had a service history with deployments and active involvement in significant conflicts. Starting its service in 1946 this destroyer of the Gearing class was first sent to the Mediterranean as part of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, where it played a role in post World War II stabilization efforts. Throughout the 1950s the Noa frequently operated in the Caribbean regions taking part in training exercises and goodwill missions. These early assignments helped establish the Noa as an dependable asset within the U.S. Navys surface fleet.
During the Korean War the USS Noa was tasked with supporting United Nations forces in that area. While not engaged in combat it provided escort and patrol services to ensure safe passage for supply convoys and troop movements. The Noas involvement in this conflict highlighted its significance and adaptability in naval operations. In the years following the Korean War the Noa continued its service, in both Atlantic and Mediterranean waters joining NATO exercises and maintaining a presence during moments of the Cold War period.
The remarkable moment for USS Noa occurred during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962.
During the times, between the United States and the Soviet Union the USS Noa was sent to assist in enforcing a blockade around Cuba. This destroyer played a part in monitoring and stopping ships helping to resolve the crisis peacefully. In years during the Vietnam War the USS Noa was deployed to the Western Pacific region where it provided support through gunfire and rescue missions. These missions showcased the ships ability to operate effectively in environments.
Throughout its duty the USS Noa received accolades for its outstanding performance and dedication. The crews professionalism and effectiveness during the Cuban Missile Crisis earned them recognition with a Navy Unit Commendation award. Additionally for its contributions during both Korean and Vietnam Wars the USS Noa was honored with campaign medals. These awards stand as testament to this ships role in U.S. Operations and its lasting impact, on the fleet.
USS Noa DD-841 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Gearing Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | November 2, 1945 |
| Displacement | 3,460 tons |
| Length | 391 feet |
| Beam | 41 feet |
| Draft | 14.3 feet |
| Speed | 37 knots |
| Complement | 11 Officers 325 Enlisted |