About this Unit
USS Albert David (FF-1050) was a Knox-class frigate of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1972 and named in honor of Lieutenant (junior grade) Albert David, a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. The ship served primarily in the Pacific Fleet, conducting anti-submarine warfare operations and participating in numerous exercises and patrols, including deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean during the Cold War. USS Albert David provided escort services, supported carrier battle groups, and took part in joint operations with allied navies. The ship was decommissioned in 1989 and later transferred to the Brazilian Navy, where she continued to serve under the name Pará (D27).
Historical Facts
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Namesake: The USS Albert David (DE-1050/FF-1050) was named after Chief Machinist's Mate Albert David, who received the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the boarding and capture of German submarine U-505 in World War II.
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Class: The ship was a Knox-class frigate (originally designated as a destroyer escort) of the United States Navy, built for anti-submarine warfare during the Cold War.
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Launch and Commissioning: USS Albert David was launched on August 19, 1967, and commissioned on October 19, 1968, serving for nearly three decades.
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Vietnam War Service: The ship participated in the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and conducting patrol operations in the Gulf of Tonkin.
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Reclassification: Originally designated as DE-1050 (Destroyer Escort), she was reclassified as FF-1050 (Frigate) in 1975 as part of a Navy-wide ship type reorganization.
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Multinational Exercises: USS Albert David took part in numerous joint exercises and operations with allied navies, including those from Japan, South Korea, and Australia, strengthening international maritime cooperation.
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Helicopter Capability: The ship was equipped with a flight deck and facilities to operate the Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS) helicopters, enhancing its anti-submarine capabilities.
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Humanitarian Missions: Besides combat roles, the USS Albert David was involved in rescue and humanitarian operations, including aiding Vietnamese boat people during the post-war refugee crisis.
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Transfer to Brazil: After her decommissioning on September 28, 1989, the ship was transferred to the Brazilian Navy in 1990, where she served as Pará (D27) until 2008.
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Legacy: The USS Albert David and her namesake symbolize valor and dedication, commemorated by veterans and naval historians as part of both American and Brazilian naval heritage.
