About this Unit
USS James C. Owens (DD-776) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer in the United States Navy, named after Ensign James C. Owens, Jr., a naval aviator killed at the Battle of Midway. Commissioned on 17 February 1945, the ship served in the Pacific during the final months of World War II, providing escort and support duties. Postwar, USS James C. Owens participated in Korean War operations, performing shore bombardment and screening aircraft carriers. The ship continued to serve through the Cold War era, taking part in various training exercises and missions until decommissioning in 1973.
Historical Facts
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USS James C. Owens (DD-776) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer of the United States Navy, named after Lieutenant James C. Owens, Jr., a Navy pilot who was killed in action during the Battle of Midway in 1942.
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Commissioned on 17 February 1945, the ship joined the Pacific Fleet just as World War II was ending and participated in occupation duties in Japan after the war.
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Korean War Service: The USS James C. Owens served in the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and screening aircraft carriers during operations along the Korean Peninsula.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, the destroyer was part of the naval blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis, enforcing the quarantine of Soviet ships bound for Cuba.
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Cold War Deployments: The ship was regularly deployed to the Mediterranean Sea as part of the U.S. 6th Fleet, serving as a show of force and participating in NATO exercises.
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FRAM Overhaul: In the early 1960s, USS James C. Owens underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, receiving new anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, updated electronics, and improved living quarters.
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Vietnam War Operations: The destroyer participated in Vietnam War operations, including naval gunfire support missions, patrols, and plane guard duty for aircraft carriers.
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Heroic Rescue: In 1968, the crew of the James C. Owens rescued the crew of a downed American aircraft off the coast of Vietnam, earning commendations for their quick action.
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Decommissioning and Transfer: The USS James C. Owens was decommissioned on 2 July 1973 and transferred to the Republic of China Navy (Taiwan), where she served as Lo Yang (DD-14) until 1999.
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Legacy: The ship received numerous awards, including several battle stars for service in Korea and Vietnam, and is remembered as a symbol of dedication and service, representing the sacrifices of her crew over three decades of active duty.
