DD833

• USS Robert H. McCard (DD-822): The hull number "DD-833" actually refers to the USS Robert H. McCard, a Gearing-class destroyer of the United States Navy, named after Marine Gunnery Sergeant Robert H. McCard, a Medal of Honor recipient. • Commissioned in 1945: The ship was commissioned on October 23, 1945, just after the end of World War II, making her part of the massive post-war U.S. Navy fleet. • Korean War Service: Although commissioned too late for World War II action, DD-822 served with distinction in the Korean War, providing gunfire support and serving as a screening vessel for aircraft carriers. • Cuban Missile Crisis: USS Robert H. McCard participated in the naval "quarantine" of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, playing a role in the historic standoff. • Vietnam War Operations: The destroyer saw extensive service during the Vietnam War, conducting shore bombardment missions and protecting aircraft carriers in the Gulf of Tonkin. • Famous Rescue: In 1967, the ship rescued the crew of the USS Forrestal after a devastating fire broke out on the aircraft carrier. • FRAM Modernization: The ship underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program in the early 1960s, receiving updated weapons, sensors, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities to extend her service life. • International Goodwill: The McCard participated in numerous NATO exercises and goodwill visits to foreign ports, strengthening alliances during the Cold War. • Decommissioning and Transfer: The destroyer was decommissioned from U.S. Navy service in 1972 and transferred to the Turkish Navy, where she served as TCG Kılıçalipaşa (D-350). • Final Fate: After decades of service under both U.S. and Turkish flags, the ship was ultimately retired and scrapped, but her legacy lives on through her distinguished record and the valor of her namesake.