USS Conway (DD-507)

• Namesake: USS Conway (DD-507) was named in honor of William Conway, a U.S. Navy sailor renowned for his refusal to lower the American flag at Pensacola Navy Yard during the Civil War. • Class and Type: She was a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the most famous and numerous destroyer classes used by the US Navy during World War II. • Commissioning: USS Conway was commissioned on 9 October 1942, quickly entering service at a pivotal time in World War II. • Guadalcanal Operations: She played a significant role in the Solomon Islands campaign, including escorting convoys and bombarding Japanese positions during the fierce fighting around Guadalcanal. • Battle of Kolombangara: On 12 July 1943, Conway participated in the Battle of Kolombangara, launching torpedoes and engaging in gunfire exchanges with Japanese warships. • Rescue Missions: The ship was involved in several rescue operations, notably saving survivors from the sunken USS Strong (DD-467) during the Solomon Islands campaign. • Philippines Campaign: Conway provided fire support and anti-aircraft defense during the liberation of the Philippines, including participating in the Leyte Gulf operations. • Kamikaze Attacks: She endured multiple kamikaze attacks during the Okinawa campaign but, through skilled maneuvering and gunnery, avoided serious damage. • Occupation Duties: After Japan’s surrender, Conway supported occupation forces, including minesweeping and patrol duties off the Japanese coast. • Decommissioning and Fate: USS Conway was decommissioned in 1946, recommissioned for the Korean War, served until 1969, and was eventually sunk as a target in 1970, ending her distinguished service.