About this Unit
USS Forrest Sherman (DD-931) was a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1955. Named after Admiral Forrest P. Sherman, the ship served prominently during the Cold War, participating in various Atlantic and Mediterranean operations, including NATO exercises and crisis response missions. During her service, Forrest Sherman was involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis quarantine and provided support during the Lebanon Crisis of 1958. After decades of distinguished service, she was decommissioned in 1982 and later used as a test ship before being sunk as a target in 2012.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Forrest Sherman (DD-931) was named after Admiral Forrest Percival Sherman, who served as Chief of Naval Operations from 1949 to 1951 and played a significant role in the post-World War II Navy.
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Lead Ship: Forrest Sherman was the lead ship of her class of destroyers, known for introducing new post-WWII designs and weaponry to the US Navy.
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Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on 9 November 1955, at the Boston Naval Shipyard, marking the beginning of a distinguished 28-year career.
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Cold War Service: USS Forrest Sherman played a vital role in Cold War operations, participating in NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and patrols aimed at countering Soviet naval activity.
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Lebanon Crisis: In 1958, Forrest Sherman deployed to the eastern Mediterranean to support US Marine landings in Lebanon during the Lebanon Crisis, demonstrating US resolve in the region.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, the ship participated in the naval quarantine of Cuba, helping to enforce the blockade during one of the most tense periods of the Cold War.
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Technological Innovations: Forrest Sherman was one of the first US destroyers to be fitted with the advanced 5-inch/54 caliber gun and an improved propulsion system, setting the standard for future classes.
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Rescue Missions: The ship was involved in several rescue operations, including saving crew members from burning merchant ships and providing emergency assistance at sea.
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Final Decommissioning: USS Forrest Sherman was decommissioned on 5 November 1982, after nearly three decades of service, and was later used as a test platform before being scrapped.
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Legacy: The legacy of Forrest Sherman is honored by the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG-98), which carries her name and continues to serve actively in the US Navy.
