DD687, RIV RON 13

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About DD687, RIV RON 13

**DD-687** refers to the USS *Callaghan*, a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned in 1943. She served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, providing escort, shore bombardment, and anti-aircraft support during major campaigns such as Leyte Gulf and Okinawa. On July 28, 1945, USS *Callaghan* was sunk by a Japanese kamikaze off Okinawa, making her the last Allied ship sunk by kamikaze attack in the war. **RIVRON 13** (Riverine Squadron 13) was a U.S. Navy unit established during the Vietnam War as part of the Mobile Riverine Force. Activated in 1967, RIVRON 13 operated river patrol boats (PBRs) and other craft in the Mekong Delta, conducting interdiction, troop transport, and fire support missions. The squadron played a crucial role in disrupting Viet Cong supply lines and supporting ground forces until its deactivation as U.S. involvement wound down in the early 1970s.

Unit Members

Calvin Obergfell

U.S. Navy

DD687, RIV RON 13View Profile

Photos

A School

U.S. Navy • 1979

Buddies

U.S. Navy

All P-3 retired

VP Squadrons • U.S. Navy • 2024

My book

USS Lawrence DDG-4 • U.S. Navy • 1972

About DD687, RIV RON 13

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• USS Bell (DD-587) vs. USS Bell (DD-687): There is often confusion between DD-587 and DD-687. The correct designation for USS Bell is DD-587. However, DD-687 refers to USS Irwin, a Fletcher-class destroyer. • USS Irwin (DD-687) Service: USS Irwin was a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned in 1943 and served with distinction in World War II, the Korean War, and post-war operations. • Pearl Harbor Arrival: USS Irwin arrived at Pearl Harbor in August 1943, joining the Pacific Fleet for several critical wartime operations in the Pacific Theater. • Battle of Leyte Gulf: USS Irwin participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles in history, providing escort and anti-aircraft defense for carriers. • Rescue Mission: In October 1944, Irwin conducted a daring rescue operation, saving more than 600 survivors from the burning USS Princeton (CVL-23) after a Japanese air attack. • Kamikaze Defense: The destroyer successfully defended against several kamikaze attacks, notably shooting down enemy aircraft during the Okinawa campaign. • Korean War Service: Reactivated for the Korean War, USS Irwin served as a screening and bombardment ship, supporting UN forces ashore. • RIVRON 13 – Riverine Warfare: River Squadron 13 (RIVRON 13) was a U.S. Navy unit specializing in riverine warfare, especially during the Vietnam War, conducting patrol, interdiction, and support missions in the Mekong Delta. • Brown Water Navy: RIVRON 13 was part of the "Brown Water Navy," using Patrol Boat, River (PBR) craft and other small vessels to control Vietnam's inland waterways and support Army and Marine operations. • Legacy and Honors: Both USS Irwin (DD-687) and RIVRON 13 earned numerous commendations and battle stars for their bravery, effectiveness, and vital roles in their respective theaters of operation.