About this Unit
The USS England (DE-635) was a Buckley-class destroyer escort commissioned by the United States Navy in December 1943. Notably, in May 1944, she achieved fame for her extraordinary anti-submarine warfare performance in the Pacific, sinking six Japanese submarines within just 12 days—a record unmatched in naval history. The ship participated in various escort and patrol duties throughout the remainder of World War II, supporting major operations in the Pacific theater. Decommissioned in 1945, the USS England received the Presidential Unit Citation for her remarkable achievements.
Historical Facts
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Record-breaking Destroyer Escort: USS England (DE-635) is renowned for sinking six Japanese submarines in 12 days in May 1944—a feat unparalleled in naval history.
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Named for Ensign John C. England: The ship was named after Ensign John Charles England, a naval officer who died heroically during the attack on Pearl Harbor aboard USS Oklahoma.
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Commissioning: USS England was commissioned on December 10, 1943, at San Francisco, California, under the command of Lieutenant Commander Walton B. Pendleton.
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The "Six for Six" Achievement: Between May 19 and May 31, 1944, England destroyed Japanese submarines I-16, RO-106, RO-104, RO-116, RO-108, and RO-105 using sonar and Hedgehog anti-submarine weapons.
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Presidential Unit Citation: For her extraordinary anti-submarine performance during this period, the ship and her crew received the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation.
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Advanced Technology: USS England was equipped with then-cutting-edge sonar and Hedgehog launchers, making her especially effective against enemy submarines.
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Service Beyond Submarines: After her famous anti-submarine exploits, England provided escort, anti-aircraft, and fire support duties throughout the Pacific, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
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Kamikaze Attack: On May 9, 1945, while off Okinawa, England was struck by a kamikaze plane, causing severe damage and casualties, but the crew managed to save the ship.
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Decommissioning: She was decommissioned on October 15, 1945, after the end of World War II, and was eventually scrapped in 1946.
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Legacy: Admiral Ernest King, Chief of Naval Operations, reportedly said, "There’ll always be an England in the United States Navy," honoring her remarkable achievements.
