USS Basilone (DD824)

• Named After a Hero: USS Basilone (DD-824) was named in honor of Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, the famed U.S. Marine who received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II. • Gearing-Class Destroyer: The ship was a Gearing-class destroyer, one of the most numerous and advanced classes of destroyers built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. • Launched in 1949: USS Basilone was launched on December 21, 1945, but wasn't commissioned until July 26, 1949, as post-war shipbuilding slowed after World War II ended. • Korean War Service: Although commissioned after World War II, the USS Basilone saw active service during the Korean War, providing escort and patrol duties in support of United Nations forces. • FRAM I Modernization: In the early 1960s, the ship underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM I) program, which upgraded its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, extending its service life. • Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the USS Basilone participated in the naval quarantine of Cuba, helping to enforce the blockade and monitor Soviet vessels. • Vietnam War Operations: The destroyer served off the coast of Vietnam, providing naval gunfire support, search and rescue, and escort duties during the Vietnam War. • Rescue Missions: USS Basilone was involved in several search and rescue operations, notably saving downed aviators and distressed vessels during its deployments. • Decommissioned in 1977: After nearly three decades of service, USS Basilone was decommissioned on November 21, 1977, and later sold for scrap. • Legacy and Honors: The ship’s legacy lives on through reunions of its former crew and its namesake’s enduring heroic story, often commemorated at memorial services and events honoring John Basilone.