USS Gurke (DD-783)

• Fletcher-class Destroyer: USS Gurke (DD-783) was a Gearing-class destroyer, not a Fletcher-class, built for the United States Navy during World War II and launched on 15 February 1945. • Named After a Hero: The ship was named in honor of Private Henry Gurke, a U.S. Marine awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for sacrificing his life in the Battle of Bougainville during World War II. • Late WWII Service: USS Gurke was commissioned too late to see combat in WWII but did participate in occupation duties in the Pacific following the Japanese surrender. • Korean War Action: Gurke served extensively during the Korean War, providing gunfire support and serving in anti-submarine warfare operations. She earned six battle stars for service in Korea. • Vietnam War Operations: The destroyer also saw action during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support for ground troops and participating in "Operation Sea Dragon" against North Vietnamese logistics. • FRAM Overhaul: In the early 1960s, Gurke was modernized under the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, receiving new anti-submarine weapons and updated electronics. • Rescue Mission: In 1966, Gurke rescued 12 crewmen from the burning Greek freighter SS Ioannis in the South China Sea, demonstrating the ship's versatility in peacetime missions. • International Exercises: Gurke participated in numerous multinational exercises with allied navies, including operations with the Royal Australian Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. • Transfer to Greece: After being decommissioned from the U.S. Navy in 1976, Gurke was transferred to the Hellenic Navy and renamed Tombazis (D215), serving for nearly two decades before final decommissioning. • Legacy: USS Gurke's bell is preserved at the North Dakota Heritage Center, honoring both the ship and Private Henry Gurke's legacy in his home state.