USS BRINKLEY BASS (DD-887)

• Namesake: USS Brinkley Bass (DD-887) was named after Lieutenant Commander Brinkley Bass, a highly decorated naval aviator who was killed in action during the Battle of Midway in 1942. • Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on 1 October 1945, just after the end of World War II, and served extensively during the Cold War era. • Gearing-class Destroyer: Brinkley Bass was a Gearing-class destroyer, a class known for their durability and extensive service across several decades. • Korean War Service: Brinkley Bass served in the Korean War, providing gunfire support, anti-submarine patrols, and escort duties for aircraft carriers. • FRAM Modernization: In the early 1960s, the ship underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, which upgraded her anti-submarine warfare capabilities. • Vietnam War Operations: Brinkley Bass played a significant role during the Vietnam War, participating in gunfire support missions, carrier escort, and search-and-rescue operations. • "Yankee Station" Duty: The destroyer frequently operated on "Yankee Station," providing plane guard and anti-aircraft picket services for aircraft carriers launching sorties over Vietnam. • Rescue Missions: On several occasions, the Brinkley Bass rescued downed American pilots off the coast of Vietnam, showcasing her crew’s bravery and rapid response capabilities. • International Exercises: The ship took part in numerous international naval exercises and goodwill visits, strengthening ties with allied navies in the Pacific. • Final Fate: Decommissioned in 1973, USS Brinkley Bass was transferred to the Republic of South Korea, where she served as ROKS Jeon Ju (DD-925) until her final decommissioning in 1999.