About this Unit
USS Charles F. Adams (DDG-2) was the lead ship of her class of guided missile destroyers in the United States Navy, commissioned in 1960. Named after Charles Francis Adams, a distinguished naval officer, she was the first U.S. destroyer built from the keel up to launch guided missiles. Throughout her service, Adams participated in numerous Cold War operations, including Mediterranean and Atlantic deployments, and provided support during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After nearly three decades of active duty, she was decommissioned in 1990 and later designated as a museum ship.
Historical Facts
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First of Her Class: USS Charles F. Adams (DDG-2) was the lead ship of the Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyers, marking a significant advancement in naval technology for the U.S. Navy.
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Named After a Naval Hero: The ship was named in honor of Charles Francis Adams, a distinguished U.S. Navy officer and Secretary of the Navy from 1929 to 1933.
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Commissioned in 1960: USS Charles F. Adams was commissioned on September 10, 1960, and served until her decommissioning in 1990, giving her 30 years of active service.
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Missile Innovator: She was the first U.S. destroyer built from the keel up to launch guided missiles, specifically equipped with the RIM-24 Tartar missile system.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, the USS Charles F. Adams participated in the naval quarantine of Cuba, playing a direct role in this pivotal Cold War confrontation.
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Vietnam War Service: The ship saw action off the Vietnamese coast, providing naval gunfire support and serving as a plane guard for aircraft carriers on Yankee Station.
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Advanced Radar and Sonar: She was equipped with state-of-the-art radar and sonar systems for her time, enhancing her anti-air and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
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International Deployments: USS Charles F. Adams participated in numerous NATO exercises and Mediterranean deployments, strengthening alliances and showcasing U.S. naval power abroad.
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Preservation Efforts: After decommissioning, there have been multiple efforts to preserve the ship as a museum, particularly in Jacksonville, Florida, highlighting her historical significance.
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Legacy: The Charles F. Adams-class served as a template for future guided missile destroyers, leaving a lasting impact on naval design and warfare tactics.
