USS Rupertus DD-851: A Legacy of Honor and Valor

The construction of the USS Rupertus DD-851 commenced on July 15, 1944, at the Fore River Shipyard, in Quincy, Massachusetts which was operated by the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. This particular vessel was one among the 98 destroyers of the Gearing class constructed during World War II. Its primary objective was to offer support to the operations of the United States Navy in the Pacific theater. It was named after Colonel William H. Rupertus, an officer in the Marine Corps serving as a testament to his dedication and exceptional leadership.

One notable aspect that set apart the USS Rupertus from others was its cutting-edge weaponry and advanced technology. It boasted three 5-inch/38 caliber guns along with an assortment of aircraft guns torpedoes and depth charges—making it a formidable presence on open waters. Furthermore, its state-of-the-art radar and sonar systems significantly enhanced its detection and tracking capabilities guaranteeing both safety and effectiveness during missions.

The legacy left behind by the USS Rupertus on the US Navy is one characterized by honor and valor. Throughout its service years, it actively participated in operations such as those during both the Korean War and Vietnam War. The ship played a role in providing naval gunfire support while engaging in submarine warfare activities along with fulfilling important escort duties. The brave and dedicated crew of the USS Rupertus earned awards and commendations for their bravery and professionalism during the ship's active years.

As part of the Gearing class destroyers, the USS Rupertus was specifically designed for engaging in submarine warfare and surface combat. These destroyers were renowned for their speed, maneuverability, and versatility making them vital assets to the US Navy's fleet. The primary mission of the USS Rupertus was to safeguard vessels offer fire support and carry out offensive and defensive operations as needed.

On February 25, 1946, the USS Rupertus was officially commissioned into service marking a milestone in its career. The commissioning ceremony witnessed the presence of officers, crew members, and dignitaries. The commissioning of the USS Rupertus demonstrated America's commitment to maintaining a capable naval force that was always prepared to safeguard national interests.

The Mighty USS Rupertus DD 851: Cold War Warrior

The USS Rupertus DD-851, a destroyer from the Gearing class was a formidable warship that played a significant role in the United States Navy during the Cold War period. With a length of 390 feet and a beam of 40 feet, it had a displacement of around 3,460 tons. The ship's design prioritized maneuverability in open sea conditions to ensure its effectiveness during combat operations. Its hull was constructed using steel to protect against enemy attacks.

In terms of technology, the USS Rupertus boasted radar and sonar systems that greatly enhanced its surveillance and detection capabilities. These systems enabled the tracking and identification of enemy vessels, submarines, and aircraft—providing situational awareness to the crew. Additionally, advanced communication systems facilitated coordination with naval units and command centers.

The armament onboard the USS Rupertus was instrumental in its capabilities. The ship had three weapons for engaging surface targets; 5 inch/38 caliber guns. These guns had a range of 15 miles and could fire different types of projectiles, such as high explosive and armor-piercing rounds. Additionally, the destroyer carried a variety of aircraft guns, including 40mm and 20mm cannons to defend against aerial threats.

The USS Rupertus also had an arsenal. It was equipped with torpedoes, depth charges, and anti-submarine rockets making it a formidable adversary against enemy submarines. These weapons allowed the ship to effectively engage and neutralize threats. Furthermore, the destroyer had a helicopter landing pad and hangar enabling it to operate submarine helicopters and enhance its capabilities in submarine warfare.

Adapting to Challenges: USS Rupertus DD 851's Legacy of Upgrades and Contributions

Throughout its service, the USS Rupertus DD-851 underwent upgrades to enhance its capabilities and remain relevant in an evolving naval environment. One noteworthy upgrade took place in the 1950s when the ship underwent a FRAM (Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization) conversion. This conversion included installing radar systems improving submarine warfare capabilities and enhancing electronic warfare systems. These upgrades greatly enhanced the ship's combat effectiveness and enabled it to adapt to changing Cold War threats.

The USS Rupertus DD-851 played a role in missions during its service. As a destroyer, its main objective was to protect vessels like aircraft carriers from air, surface, and submarine threats. The ship's advanced radar systems and anti-aircraft weaponry made it formidable against enemy aircraft. Additionally, its anti-submarine warfare capabilities allowed for the detection and neutralization of threats. Moreover, the USS Rupertus actively took part in drills and deployments serving as a strong deterrent and proudly showcasing the Naval power of the United States worldwide.

The contributions made by the USS Rupertus DD-851 to the fleet were substantial and had a ranging impact. The ship played a role during the Vietnam War by providing naval gunfire support to ground forces conducting life-saving search and rescue operations and effectively disrupting enemy supply lines along the coast. Its ability to swiftly respond to emerging threats and offer assistance to ground troops made it an invaluable asset throughout the conflict. Additionally, during the Cold War era, the USS Rupertus played a role in maintaining peace and stability by patrolling sea routes and ensuring their security.

Apart from its combat capabilities, the USS Rupertus DD-851 also served as a training platform for sailors. The skilled and dedicated crew underwent training to operate and maintain advanced ship systems. The experience gained aboard this vessel not only contributed to its success but also provided training for future naval operations. The legacy of the USS Rupertus lives on through sailors who served on board passing on their knowledge and expertise to generations of naval personnel.

Memories Shared Aboard The USS Rupertus (DD-851):

Wiley Walden (EM2):

Wiley Walden served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1964 to 1966 and recalled the ship's departure from the USA shortly after he arrived in Long Beach, CA. The ship was homeported out of Yokosuka, Japan, and returned to the USA after two years. Walden's dedication is evident as he remained with the ship for a total of four years before returning to the USA.

Leonard Lankford (S1/C):

Leonard Lankford shared memories from his time aboard the USS Rupertus from 1946 to 1948. He recounted a thrilling incident where he almost shot down a C47 towing a sleeve target. Lankford also fondly remembered a typhoon off Okinawa and becoming a Shellback in 1947. He expressed his love for exploring various places and the camaraderie among his shipmates on DD 851.

Mike Feathers (QMSM3):

Mike Feathers served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1957 to 1958 and was part of the "Filthy Six" club members. He mentioned fellow members like Tony Lopez, Fred Greatorex, Swede Johnson, and others. Feathers encouraged old mates to join the Rupertus Association and shared that the USS Orleck is berthed in Orange, TX.

Terry Wilson (FTG 3):

Terry Wilson, who served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1965 to 1967, reminisced about his experiences. He mentioned performing cold watches in the director while mess cooking during Formosa patrol. Wilson was assigned as a radar/rangefinder operator and was highly accurate with 5'38s. He vividly remembered the USS Forrestal incident and the teamwork with fellow GMs and FTs.

David Salter (TORPEDOMAN FIRSTCLASS SEAMAN):

David Salter, who served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1948 to 1951, shared a remarkable memory. He served as a special helmsman for 5.5 hours south of Okinawa during a typhoon, during which the ship experienced a 70-degree roll and winds of approximately 200mph. Despite the challenging conditions, there were no injuries, and Salter ended his message with a light-hearted apology for the "bumpy ride."

Jerry Wing (FTG3):

Jerry Wing served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1970 to 1973 and mentioned West Pac Cruises in '71 and '72. He recalled spending a lot of time on the gun line, usually as a plotting room officer. The wing was keen to reconnect with other FTGs from that time frame and mentioned shipmates like Walt Wagner, Evert Challsted, Dave Kibel, Mike Holst, and Chief Dunn.

James Espinoza (Espy) (E-4):

James Espinoza served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1969 to 1973. He sent warm wishes to all who served on the battleship during Vietnam and expressed hope that everyone was in good health. Espinoza mentioned shipmates like Richard Ball, Tom Schramm, David Stoval, Miller, and others who made multiple tours.

George Bamman (ETR4):

George Bamman, who served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1967 to 1968, shared a gripping memory. He recalled a wave washing him down the deck, and it was RD Richard Van Fleet and Gray Holmes who pulled him back aboard. Bamman also mentioned having about two dozen pictures of the Forrestal fire and encouraged email communication.

Frank Keller (STG1):

Frank Keller served aboard the USS Rupertus from 1963 to 1965. He retired to Florida in March 1980 and remembered fond nicknames for the ship, such as "Rusty Rupe" and "Hatchie Go Itchy" (the hull number in Japanese). Keller concluded his message by mentioning that he finished his career on the USS W. S. Sims FF.

USS Rupertus DD 851: A Decades-Long Legacy of Naval Excellence

The USS Rupertus DD 851, which belonged to the Gearing class destroyer category, served with distinction under the United States Navy throughout its years. The ship was deployed to regions around the world and played an essential role in national defense and international security efforts. From the 1950s until the 1970s, it took part in numerous deployments across the Western Pacific region. These deployments showcased its versatility and readiness to address emerging threats while upholding peace, within that area.

The USS Rupertus played a role in significant conflicts during its service. In the Korean War (1950- 1953) the ship was deployed to the Korean Peninsula providing naval gunfire support to ground forces and conducting patrols to enforce the blockade established by the United Nations. The accurate and relentless fire support from the Rupertus was instrumental in safeguarding troops and disrupting enemy positions. Moreover, the ship also served in the Vietnam War (1955- 1975) engaging in combat operations such as shore bombardments, interdiction missions, and search and rescue operations. Its effectiveness and resilience in circumstances earned it a reputation for its performance.

The USS Rupertus received awards and commendations due to its service and outstanding performance throughout its active years. The ship was honored with the Navy Unit Commendation for its actions during the Korean War recognizing its role in supporting ground forces and maintaining naval superiority. Additionally, several Battle Efficiency Awards were bestowed upon the Rupertus affirming its readiness for operations and combat effectiveness. Individual crew members of the ship were also acknowledged for their bravery and dedication through commendations and medals awarded for their exceptional service both during wartime engagements as well as peacetime operations.

The USS Rupertus has left a lasting impact on the United States Navy. The ship's significant contributions during conflicts and its dedication to safeguarding the country's security have been celebrated. Today, the Rupertus is remembered as a symbol of bravery, resilience, and professionalism. The ship's name continues to be honored through memorials, such as plaques, monuments, and exhibits ensuring that its history and the sacrifices made by its crew are forever kept alive in our hearts. The USS Rupertus DD-851 stands as a testament to the traditions of the United States Navy and the courageous men and women who have served aboard her.

USS Rupertus DD-851 Ship Specifications

Specification	Details
Class	Gearing Class Destroyer
Commissioned	March 8, 1946
Displacement	3,460 tons
Length	391 feet
Beam	41 feet
Draft	14.3 feet
Speed	37 knots
Complement	11 Officers 325 Enlisted