About this Unit
USS Ault (DD-698) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in May 1944. She served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major operations such as the Battle of Okinawa and providing vital anti-aircraft and shore bombardment support. After the war, Ault was active during the Korean War and later operated as part of the Atlantic Fleet, taking part in NATO exercises and Mediterranean deployments. The ship was decommissioned in 1969 after a long and honorable career, earning five battle stars for her World War II service.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Ault (DD-698) was named after Commander William Bowen Ault, a naval aviator killed during the Battle of the Coral Sea in World War II. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.
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Class: The USS Ault was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, a class known for improved anti-aircraft capabilities and dual-purpose guns.
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Commissioned in WWII: USS Ault was commissioned on 31 January 1944 and saw immediate action in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
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Kamikaze Attacks: During the Battle of Okinawa in April 1945, Ault narrowly escaped damage from several kamikaze attacks, showcasing the ship’s crew’s vigilance and effective anti-aircraft fire.
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Radar Picket Duty: The destroyer served on hazardous radar picket duty off Okinawa, providing early warning of incoming air raids and often coming under heavy enemy attack.
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Korean War Service: After WWII, the USS Ault was recommissioned for service in the Korean War, supporting carrier operations and shore bombardments.
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Operation Market Time: During the Vietnam War, Ault participated in Operation Market Time, a coastal interdiction effort to prevent the flow of arms and supplies to North Vietnamese forces.
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Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM): In the early 1960s, Ault underwent FRAM modernization, receiving updated anti-submarine warfare equipment to extend her operational life.
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Friendly Fire Incident: In 1967, Ault was mistakenly fired upon by a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber during exercises, but escaped serious damage.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Ault was decommissioned on 16 July 1973 after nearly 30 years of service, and was sold for scrap in 1974, marking the end of her storied career.
