USS John King (DDG-3)

• Namesake: USS John King (DDG-3) was named after John King, a US Navy sailor who received two Medals of Honor for his heroic actions in 1901 and 1909, making him one of only 19 double recipients. • Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on February 4, 1961, as the third Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer. • Advanced Weaponry: USS John King was among the first destroyers equipped with the Tartar Guided Missile System, enhancing the Navy’s air defense capabilities during the Cold War. • Cuban Missile Crisis: In October 1962, USS John King participated in the naval blockade (quarantine) of Cuba, helping to enforce the US response during the Cuban Missile Crisis. • Vietnam War Service: The destroyer deployed to Southeast Asia, providing gunfire support and anti-aircraft screening during the Vietnam War. • Mediterranean Deployments: Throughout her career, John King was frequently deployed with the US Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean, supporting NATO operations and showing presence during key Cold War flashpoints. • Rescue Operations: In 1972, the ship rescued survivors from the Greek freighter SS Epirotiki, which had caught fire in the Mediterranean Sea. • Technological Upgrades: John King received several significant upgrades over her career, including improved radar and fire control systems, keeping her at the forefront of destroyer technology. • Decommissioning: The ship was decommissioned on March 30, 1990, after nearly 30 years of service, and was later scrapped in 1999. • Motto: The ship’s motto was “Courage in Adversity,” reflecting the valor of her namesake and the spirit of her crew throughout the vessel’s distinguished service.