About this Unit
USS Duncan (DD-874) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in February 1945. After serving in the final months of World War II, she participated in the occupation of Japan and later supported United Nations forces during the Korean War, providing gunfire support and conducting patrols. The ship underwent modernization under the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program in the early 1960s and served extensively during the Vietnam War, performing search and rescue, naval gunfire support, and escort missions. Decommissioned in 1971, USS Duncan was transferred to Greece, where she served as HS Nearchos before being scrapped.
Historical Facts
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Fletcher-class Destroyer: USS Duncan (DD-874) was a Gearing-class destroyer, not a Fletcher-class, built for the United States Navy during World War II. She was named after Silas Duncan, a naval officer who served during the War of 1812.
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Commissioned in 1945: Duncan was commissioned on 25 February 1945, near the end of World War II, and thus saw limited action in that conflict.
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Post-WWII Service: After shakedown and training, Duncan participated in occupation duty in the Far East, helping to stabilize postwar Japan and China.
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Korean War Operations: Duncan saw extensive action during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support, screening aircraft carriers, and participating in blockade operations along the Korean coast.
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FRAM Modernization: In the early 1960s, Duncan underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, receiving new anti-submarine warfare systems and updated electronics to counter Cold War threats.
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Vietnam War Service: Duncan was active during the Vietnam War, conducting shore bombardments, search and rescue operations, and plane guard duty for aircraft carriers.
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Rescue Operations: The destroyer is credited with several search and rescue missions, saving downed pilots and sailors during both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts.
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Participation in Operation "Sea Dragon": During the Vietnam War, Duncan took part in "Sea Dragon" operations, aimed at interdicting North Vietnamese logistics by sea and providing gunfire support.
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Decommissioning and Fate: Duncan was decommissioned on 15 January 1971 and was eventually transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy, where she served as ROKS Pusan (DD-917).
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Honors and Legacy: For her service, Duncan earned two battle stars for Korean War service and five for service in the Vietnam War, reflecting her distinguished and active career.
