The USS Robert K. Huntington (DD 781) was a Gearing-class destroyer built for the United States Navy toward the end of World War II. Construction began on December 29, 1944, at the Todd Pacific Shipyards in Seattle, Washington. The ship was launched on June 8, 1945, and officially commissioned on September 3, 1945, after Japan's surrender. This initiative to strengthen the Navy's fleet involved creating destroyers like the USS Robert K. Huntington, capable of effectively handling both offensive and defensive tasks. The vessel was named after Robert Kingsbury Huntington, an aviator who received the Navy Cross posthumously for his exceptional bravery during the Battle of Midway. Lieutenant Huntington's courage symbolized the valor and commitment of personnel during World War II. By naming a destroyer in his honor, the Navy paid tribute to his legacy and all those who served with dedication during that period.
The USS Robert K. Huntington was notable for its cutting-edge radar and sonar systems, considered top of the line at the time. It was armed with six 5-inch/38 caliber guns, twelve 40mm anti-aircraft guns, and eleven 20mm anti-aircraft guns, providing substantial firepower. The ship also featured ten 21-inch torpedo tubes and depth charge projectors for engaging surface and underwater threats. The Gearing-class design focused on enhancing endurance and seakeeping abilities to operate in various maritime conditions.
Throughout its service in the U.S. Navy, the USS Robert K. Huntington participated in operations during the Korean War and the Vietnam War after World War II. Its versatility and reliability significantly contributed to power projection and maritime security efforts. The ship's operational history highlights the effectiveness of the Gearing-class design and the dedication of its crew.
As a member of the Gearing-class destroyer group, the USS Robert K. Huntington succeeded the Fletcher and Allen M. Sumner classes. These destroyers were built to enhance the Navy's capabilities by addressing the shortcomings of earlier models. They were versatile, capable of tasks such as submarine warfare, air defense, and surface combat. Their advanced features and adaptability made them crucial to the Navy's destroyer fleet in the mid-20th century.
The USS Robert K. Huntington began a lengthy career upon deployment, participating in Navy operations through training exercises, patrols, and combat missions. The commissioning of this destroyer marked the progress and modernization of the U.S. Navy's surface fleet. Throughout its service, the USS Robert K. Huntington demonstrated resilience, flexibility, and strength—qualities synonymous with the Navy's destroyer force.
Steel Sentinel: Unveiling the Structure, Technology, and Armament of USS Robert K. Huntington (DD-781)
The USS Robert K. Huntington (DD 781) served as a Gearing-class destroyer, renowned for its construction and adaptability throughout World War II and the Cold War. Measuring 390 feet in length and 40 feet in width, the ship provided a strong foundation for naval missions. Its hull was crafted from high-tensile steel to withstand the challenges of warfare. Equipped with radar and communication systems, the ship effectively coordinated with other vessels and aircraft in the fleet. The layout supported defensive actions, accommodating crew living quarters, command centers, and weaponry efficiently.
In terms of technology, the USS Robert K. Huntington featured advanced systems for its time. It boasted radar and sonar systems for detecting enemy submarines and aircraft. The radar suite included the SPS-6 air search radar and SPS-10 surface search radar for enhanced situational awareness. Its sonar equipment, such as QHB and SQS-4, enabled effective threat detection. The vessel was also outfitted with electronic warfare systems designed to intercept and disrupt enemy communications, further enhancing its capabilities.
The armaments of the USS Robert K. Huntington were tailored for combat scenarios. Its primary armament included six 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns capable of engaging both surface and aerial targets. These guns were housed in three turrets, allowing for an extended firing range. To defend against threats, the ship featured twelve 40mm Bofors guns and eleven 20mm Oerlikon cannons, providing robust defense against enemy aircraft. It also had torpedo tubes for launching 21-inch torpedoes, enhancing its effectiveness against enemy ships and submarines.
Additionally, the USS Robert K. Huntington carried depth charge projectors and racks crucial for submarine warfare operations. Equipped with both K-gun depth charge throwers and mounted depth charge racks, the vessel could deploy anti-submarine munitions effectively. Later enhancements included the Hedgehog submarine mortar, which provided a more effective method for engaging underwater targets.
With its diverse range of weaponry and capabilities, the USS Robert K. Huntington was positioned as a significant threat to enemy submarines. This combination of firepower and adaptability allowed the ship to adeptly carry out missions, including convoy escort duties and direct combat operations against enemy forces.
USS Robert K Huntington DD-781 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Robert K. Huntington (DD-781) guestbook posts provide a rich tapestry of memories from various crewmembers who served on the ship over the years. These recollections span from the ship's commissioning in 1945 to its later years in the early 1970s, capturing moments of camaraderie, adventure, and the everyday life of sailors aboard a naval destroyer.
David Berveiler, who served as an ETR3 in 1966, reminisces about his shipmates Newman, Sohl, and Fiddler, and wonders about the whereabouts of Tommy Rott and Ens Robinson, speculating if the latter might be related to Admiral David Robinson. Victor Cortese, an E-3 in 1968, is on a quest to reconnect with Randy Camp, Ernie Rogger, and other shipmates, providing his contact number for anyone who might have information.
Gregg Doster, a QM2 in 1972, humorously recalls the ship's less-than-perfect docking maneuvers, including a memorable incident at the Earl NJ ammo pier. Kent Heise, an RD2 in 1966, expresses gratitude for the memories shared with crewmates Eric Nobel, Ralph Rice, and Bill Sole, highlighting the pride he feels in having served with them.
Dane Hoyle, a SMSA in 1969, reflects on his time in Po City and the journey to Vietnam, remembering significant incidents and the faces of the skipper and an infamous ET. Richard Loveland, an RD3 in 1968, notes his arrival on the ship just before it departed for Vietnam, serving until its transfer to New Jersey.
Martin McIntosh, a SN in 1968, shares an adventurous overnight trip to Tijuana with shipmates after returning from Vietnam, which ended with them getting stuck. Steven Perry, a BM3 in 1962, nostalgically remarks on the disappearance of the "old navy" and its crews, expressing a longing to reunite someday.
Joe Roe, a GM3 in 1945, recalls being part of the commissioning crew in Seattle and witnessing the signing of peace in Tokyo Bay, wondering if any of his fellow crew members are still alive. Gene Sillavan, a YN3 in 1967, seeks information about Larry Linguist, a shipmate during the Vietnam deployment, with whom he lost contact after his discharge.
Louis Brink, a SO1 in 1953, describes his three years on the Huntington as life-changing and sends greetings to his shipmates, especially those in the sonar shack. John Hickman, a DM3 in 1966, recounts joining the ship while it was in dry dock, initially working on the hull painting crew before becoming a cook and later reassigned due to a rate change.
George Higgs, a fireman in 1960, shares his post-navy life, including starting and eventually selling a successful fire extinguisher business in Florida. John Ingram, an E3 in 1968, vividly remembers a harrowing Christmas of '68 when the ship pulled out of Japan without radar amidst a typhoon, fearing for their lives on the way to Vietnam.
Patrick Kachurka, an RMSN in 1972, fondly recalls the great duty and camaraderie with shipmates like Chuck Mullikin, Steve Short, and others, inviting anyone who remembers him to get in touch. William McCarty, a YN3 in 1966, details his progression from E-2 to E-3, eventually working in the ship's office as a legal yeoman.
John Messana, an E2 in 1966, remembers being the ship's singer and the good times he had with the crew and officers. Parvin Montgomery, a SFP 3 in 1958, notes his transfer to the USS Shenandoah when the Huntington entered the Norfolk Shipyard for a conversion.
David Mowbray, an ETR-3 in 1963, recounts his first cruise, which involved navigating through a massive hurricane, experiencing severe rolls that made him fear for his life. James Myers, a QMSM2 in 1949, lists his great signal crew and his journey from San Diego to Norfolk.
Edward Richards, an FT2 in 1953, disputes the memory of a Sonar 1 named Brink, instead recalling other sonar crew members like Howie and Carlton Faarria. Robert Vitek, a postal clerk in 1966, feels blessed to have had his job, especially during mail deliveries at sea, and mentions his GQ station in Radio Central.
Lastly, George Wolber, a SO3 in 1950, seeks information on how to contact Jack Hapenny, a QM2, expressing the importance of reconnecting after 59 years.
These memories collectively paint a vivid picture of life aboard the USS Robert K. Huntington, highlighting the bonds formed, the challenges faced, and the enduring legacy of those who served on this storied vessel.
USS Robert K. Huntington DD-781: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse
The USS Robert K. Huntington (DD 781) underwent upgrades during its service to remain a valuable asset in the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945 as a Gearing-class destroyer, the ship was originally equipped with cutting-edge radar and sonar systems, along with anti-aircraft and anti-submarine weapons. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Huntington underwent modernizations as part of the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program. These updates included enhanced sonar systems to improve anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities and the addition of the ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) launcher to boost its ability to detect and engage underwater threats. The ship also replaced its 40mm aircraft guns with more efficient 3-inch/50 caliber guns to enhance its defense against aerial attacks.
The mission capabilities of the USS Robert K. Huntington evolved alongside these advancements. Originally designed for submarine warfare and surface combat, the destroyer adapted to reflect changes in naval warfare strategies over time. With these upgrades, the USS Robert K. Huntington became a versatile platform capable of carrying out various missions, including convoy escort, shore bombardment, and search and rescue operations. Its upgraded radar and sonar systems enabled it to function as a picket ship, providing early warning and defense against enemy aircraft and submarines.
The integration of the DASH (Drone Anti-Submarine Helicopter) system in the 1960s further expanded its ASW capabilities by allowing it to deploy unmanned helicopters for detecting and engaging submarines beyond its own sensor range. The USS Robert K. Huntington made significant contributions to the fleet during the Cold War when Soviet submarine threats loomed large for the U.S. Navy. It participated in NATO exercises to showcase its capabilities and enhance coordination with allied navies. The ship also played a role in enforcing the naval blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis, highlighting its reliability and effectiveness as a warship prepared to address evolving challenges.
Throughout its service history, the USS Robert K. Huntington embodied the flexibility and durability characteristic of the U.S. Navy's destroyer fleet. Its ongoing enhancements and expanding mission capabilities allowed it to remain current and efficient in a changing environment. The ship's impact on the fleet extends beyond its specific missions, encompassing its vital role in upholding maritime security and deterring threats. The service history of the Huntington serves as a testament to the progress and strategic adaptability that define the U.S. Navy's efforts to maintain naval supremacy.
USS Robert K. Huntington DD-781: A Legacy of Valor on the High Seas
The USS Robert K. Huntington (DD 781) has a service history marked by deployments and active involvement in significant conflicts. Launched in 1945, this Gearing-class destroyer was first sent to the Pacific Theater towards the end of World War II. Although the war ended shortly after its commissioning, the ship quickly transitioned to peacetime duties, which included occupying Japan and patrolling the Western Pacific. From the 1940s to the 1950s, the USS Robert K. Huntington played a crucial role in maintaining stability and supporting American interests during the early phase of the Cold War in that region.
During the Korean War, the destroyer returned to combat operations. Between 1950 and 1953, it provided naval gunfire support, conducted submarine warfare, and undertook escort missions. Its firepower was vital, offering artillery support for ground forces and participating in blockades and bombardments along the Korean Peninsula. The ship’s adaptability and combat readiness were evident throughout this conflict, leading to recognition for its continuous contributions.
In the 1960s, the USS Robert K. Huntington was again called into service, this time during the Vietnam War. The destroyer operated in the waters near Vietnam, carrying out tasks such as shore bombardment, search and rescue operations, and naval gunfire support. Its presence helped deter enemy forces, and the crew's commitment to their duties never wavered. The ship's ability to adjust to the changing nature of warfare during this period underscored its lasting importance to the U.S. Navy.
Throughout its years of service, the USS Robert K. Huntington earned numerous awards and accolades recognizing its performance and the courage of its crew members. These honors included battle stars for its actions in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, as well as the Navy Unit Commendation for exceptional achievements during specific operations. The ship's legacy stands as a tribute to the dedication and expertise of those who served aboard it, with its rich history remaining an integral part of U.S. Navy records.
USS Robert K Huntington DD-781 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Allen M Sumner Class Destroyer |
| Commissioned | March 3, 1945 |
| Displacement | 3,218 tons |
| Length | 376.5 feet |
| Beam | 40.7 feet |
| Draft | 14.2 feet |
| Speed | 36.5 knots |
| Complement | 345 |