USS Downes (FF-1070)

• Namesake: USS Downes (FF-1070) was named in honor of John Downes, a decorated U.S. Navy officer who served in the early 19th century, including during the War of 1812 and the Second Barbary War. • Class: It was a Knox-class frigate, a class designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare during the Cold War, with enhanced sonar and helicopter facilities. • Commissioning: USS Downes was commissioned on August 28, 1971, at the Todd Shipyards in Seattle, Washington. • Service Era: The ship served extensively during the Cold War era, participating in numerous exercises and patrols in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. • Vietnam War Involvement: While the Vietnam War was winding down, Downes conducted operations including coastal patrols and support missions in the Western Pacific. • Humanitarian Missions: In 1975, Downes participated in Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of American citizens and at-risk Vietnamese from Saigon as South Vietnam fell. • Helicopter Operations: Designed with a helicopter hangar and flight deck, Downes worked with the SH-2 Seasprite LAMPS I helicopter to extend its anti-submarine capabilities. • Modernization: The ship underwent several technological updates during its service, including improvements to its sonar systems and weaponry to keep pace with evolving threats. • Decommissioning: USS Downes was decommissioned on December 5, 1992, after more than 20 years of active service. • Final Fate: After decommissioning, Downes was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register and eventually sold for scrap in 2000, marking the end of her naval story.