About this Unit
USS Compton (DD-705) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1944. She served with distinction during World War II, participating in Pacific operations such as the Okinawa campaign and providing anti-aircraft and fire support. After the war, Compton was active during the Korean War and later participated in Cold War missions, including NATO exercises and Mediterranean deployments. The ship was decommissioned in 1972, closing a career that spanned nearly three decades of service.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Compton (DD-705) was named after Commodore Andrew H. Compton, a distinguished officer who served in the US Navy during the 19th century.
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Class & Launch: Compton was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, launched on 17 October 1944 at the Federal Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Kearny, New Jersey.
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World War II Service: She joined the Pacific Fleet during the final months of WWII, providing gunfire support during the Okinawa campaign and performing radar picket duties under constant threat from kamikaze attacks.
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Operation Magic Carpet: After the war, Compton participated in Operation Magic Carpet, helping to return American servicemen from the Pacific to the United States.
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Korean War Duty: Compton was recommissioned for the Korean War, conducting patrols, shore bombardments, and screening operations with Task Force 77.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, the destroyer took part in the naval blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis, demonstrating US resolve during this tense Cold War confrontation.
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Mediterranean Deployments: She completed multiple tours with the 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean, supporting NATO operations and showing the flag in ports across Europe and the Mediterranean.
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Rescue Operations: USS Compton participated in several rescue missions, including saving crew members from damaged or sinking vessels during her service.
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Decommissioning and Fate: Compton was decommissioned on 2 December 1972 and transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) in 1974, where she served as ROCS Chen Yang (DD-918).
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Honors: For her service, USS Compton earned two battle stars for World War II and another two for operations during the Korean War.
