About this Unit
USS Frank E. Evans (DD-754) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1944. She served with distinction in World War II, providing fire support and screening for carrier task forces in the Pacific Theater. The ship later saw action during the Korean War, engaging in shore bombardments and patrol duties, and also participated in operations during the Vietnam War. Tragically, on June 3, 1969, USS Frank E. Evans was cut in half and sunk after a collision with the Australian aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne in the South China Sea, resulting in the loss of 74 crew members.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Frank E. Evans (DD-754) was named after Marine Corps General Frank Edgar Evans, a decorated officer who served in the Spanish–American War, Philippine–American War, and World War I.
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Gearing-class Destroyer: The ship was a Gearing-class destroyer, part of the largest and last class of American destroyers built during World War II.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in February 1945, she joined the Pacific Fleet and participated in the final months of World War II, including operations off Okinawa.
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Korean War Heroics: USS Frank E. Evans saw extensive combat during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and earning five battle stars for her service.
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Vietnam War Deployments: The destroyer was actively involved in the Vietnam War, performing escort duties, shore bombardments, and search and rescue operations.
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The 1969 Melbourne Collision: On June 3, 1969, while participating in SEATO exercises, the Evans was cut in half after colliding with the Australian aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne in the South China Sea, resulting in the deaths of 74 sailors.
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Heroic Actions During the Collision: In the aftermath, surviving crew members performed extraordinary rescue efforts, saving many lives despite the chaos and danger.
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Controversy Over Vietnam Veterans Memorial: The 74 sailors lost were not included on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., due to the location of the collision being outside the official combat zone, sparking ongoing advocacy for their recognition.
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Stern Section Salvaged: The stern of the Evans remained afloat after the collision and was towed to Subic Bay, Philippines, where it was used as a training hulk before being scrapped.
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Legacy and Memorials: Numerous memorials have been established in honor of the ship and her lost crew, including monuments in California, Louisiana, and at the USS Kidd Veterans Museum in Baton Rouge.
