About this Unit
USS **Basilone (DD-824)** was a Gearing-class destroyer of the United States Navy, named in honor of Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. Commissioned in 1949, Basilone served extensively during the Cold War, participating in NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and patrols in the Atlantic. The destroyer also supported operations during the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and escort duties. Decommissioned in 1977, USS Basilone was later transferred to the Hellenic Navy of Greece, where she served as *Nearchos* until her retirement.
Historical Facts
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Namesake Heroism: USS Basilone (DD-824) was named after Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, a Marine who received the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary heroism at the Battle of Guadalcanal and was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross at Iwo Jima.
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Gearing-class Destroyer: Basilone was a Gearing-class destroyer, one of 98 built during and just after World War II, designed for improved range and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
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Commissioning Date: The ship was commissioned on July 26, 1949, well after World War II had ended, and went on to serve during the Cold War era.
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Korean War Service: Although commissioned after WWII, Basilone participated in operations supporting the Korean War, including patrols and exercises in the Western Pacific.
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FRAM Modernization: In 1963, Basilone underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, which upgraded her anti-submarine warfare equipment, including the addition of ASROC and DASH systems.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: Basilone was deployed to the Caribbean during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, participating in the quarantine and patrol operations that helped prevent escalation.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The destroyer made multiple deployments to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and serving on "Yankee Station" in the Gulf of Tonkin.
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Rescue Operations: Basilone was involved in rescuing downed pilots and sailors in several incidents, reflecting the versatility and humanitarian roles of destroyers during conflict.
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Decommissioning and Transfer: Basilone was decommissioned from U.S. Navy service on November 21, 1977, and was transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy, where she served as ROCS Hsun Yang (DD-16).
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Legacy and Honors: The USS Basilone is remembered for its decades-long service and connection to one of the most decorated Marines in U.S. history. The ship’s bell is preserved at the Basilone Memorial Foundation in Raritan, New Jersey.
