About this Unit
USS FURSE (DD-882) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945, named in honor of Lieutenant John H. Furse. After World War II, she served extensively during the Cold War, conducting patrols and participating in NATO exercises in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. During the Korean War, FURSE provided gunfire support and performed escort duties. She continued her service through the Vietnam War before being decommissioned in 1972 and eventually transferred to the Spanish Navy.
Historical Facts
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Commissioned Post-WWII: USS FURSE (DD-882) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned on July 10, 1945, just before the end of World War II.
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Named After Lieutenant John House Furse: The ship was named in honor of Lt. John H. Furse, a naval officer who served with distinction during World War I.
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Korean War Service: USS FURSE served in the Korean War, providing escort, patrol, and shore bombardment duties in support of United Nations forces.
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FRAM Modernization: In 1962, FURSE underwent the FRAM (Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization) upgrade, which added advanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities, including new sonar and ASROC launchers.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: The destroyer played a role in the Cuban Missile Crisis naval quarantine in October 1962, helping enforce the blockade against Soviet ships.
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Vietnam War Deployment: FURSE was deployed to the Western Pacific and took part in Vietnam War operations, providing naval gunfire support and plane guard duties for aircraft carriers.
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Rescue Operations: The ship was involved in several rescue missions, including saving downed pilots and distressed sailors during her deployments.
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Extensive Mediterranean Cruises: USS FURSE made multiple Mediterranean deployments as part of the U.S. 6th Fleet, participating in NATO exercises and showing American presence during the Cold War.
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Decommissioned and Transferred: FURSE was decommissioned from U.S. Navy service in November 1972 and subsequently transferred to the Spanish Navy, where she served as Gravina (D62).
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Legacy and Honors: Throughout her service, USS FURSE earned several awards, including battle stars for Korean War and Vietnam War service, and is remembered by former crew members and naval historians as a hardworking and versatile destroyer.
