USS Charles F. Adams (DDG2)

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 former Secretary of the Navy, she was among the first destroyers designed specifically to launch guided missiles, notably the Tartar surface-to-air missile. Throughout her service, the Adams participated in Cold War operations, Mediterranean deployments, and NATO exercises, showcasing advanced air defense capabilities. After nearly three decades of active duty, she was decommissioned in 1990, marking the end of a distinguished career in naval innovation and frontline service.