About this Unit
USS John King (DDG-3) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1961. Named after Medal of Honor recipient John King, the ship served during the Cold War and participated in a variety of operations, including Mediterranean deployments with the Sixth Fleet and patrols in the Atlantic. Notably, USS John King played a role in the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, helping to enforce the naval quarantine of Cuba. The destroyer remained active through the 1980s, before being decommissioned in 1990 and ultimately scrapped in 1999.
Historical Facts
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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.
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Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on February 4, 1961, as the third Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer.
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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.
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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.
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Vietnam War Service: The destroyer deployed to Southeast Asia, providing gunfire support and anti-aircraft screening during the Vietnam War.
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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.
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Rescue Operations: In 1972, the ship rescued survivors from the Greek freighter SS Epirotiki, which had caught fire in the Mediterranean Sea.
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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.
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Decommissioning: The ship was decommissioned on March 30, 1990, after nearly 30 years of service, and was later scrapped in 1999.
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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.
