USS EDSON

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About USS EDSON

USS Edson (DD-946) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1958. Named after Major General Merritt A. Edson, a Medal of Honor recipient, the ship served extensively during the Cold War, including combat operations in the Vietnam War where she provided naval gunfire support and plane guard duties for aircraft carriers. Throughout her active years, USS Edson participated in numerous training exercises, patrol missions, and goodwill visits across the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Decommissioned in 1988, she now serves as a museum ship, preserving her legacy at the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum in Bay City, Michigan.

Unit Members

Larry Hutmacher

U.S. Navy

USS EDSONView Profile

Danilo Ompoc

U.S. Navy

USS EDSONView Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About USS EDSON

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• The USS Edson (DD-946) is a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, commissioned by the United States Navy in 1958 and named after Major General Merritt A. Edson, a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. • Vietnam War Service: The Edson served extensively during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support, search and rescue operations, and carrier escort duties. • Nickname: The ship earned the nickname "Grey Ghost of the Vietnamese Coast" due to its frequent and effective nighttime operations along the Vietnamese shoreline. • Haunted Reputation: Sailors have reported ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena aboard the Edson, leading to stories that the ship is haunted. • Decommissioned: The Edson was decommissioned in 1988 after 30 years of active service, having participated in multiple significant naval operations. • Preservation: The ship is preserved as a museum and national historic landmark at the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum in Bay City, Michigan. • Presidential Visits: President John F. Kennedy visited the USS Edson in 1962 as part of a review of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. • Heroic Actions: In 1967, the Edson rescued the crew of a downed Navy aircraft off the coast of Vietnam, earning commendations for its swift response. • Hollywood Appearance: The USS Edson has been featured in several documentaries and television programs, including "Ghost Hunters" due to its haunted reputation. • Awards: The ship was awarded multiple honors, including three Navy Unit Commendations and five battle stars for its Vietnam service.