About this Unit
USS John R. Craig (DD-885) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in March 1945. Named after Lieutenant Commander John R. Craig, a World War II submarine hero, the ship saw extensive service during the late stages of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Throughout her career, John R. Craig performed a variety of roles including anti-submarine warfare, escort duties, and naval gunfire support. The destroyer was decommissioned in 1979 and later transferred to the Republic of Korea, where she served as ROKS Jeong Ju until her final decommissioning.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS John R. Craig (DD-885) was named in honor of Lieutenant Commander John R. Craig, a submarine officer who received the Navy Cross posthumously for his heroism as commanding officer of USS Grampus (SS-207) during World War II.
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Gearing-class Destroyer: The ship was a Gearing-class destroyer, one of the most prolific and long-serving classes of destroyers in the US Navy, designed during World War II for anti-submarine and anti-aircraft duties.
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Commissioning: USS John R. Craig was launched on 14 March 1945 and commissioned on 20 July 1945, entering service just as World War II was ending.
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Korean War Service: The destroyer served with distinction during the Korean War, participating in naval gunfire support, blockade, and escort operations, earning five battle stars for her service.
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FRAM Modernization: In 1960, John R. Craig underwent Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) to extend her service life and equip her with new anti-submarine weapons, such as the ASROC system and DASH drone helicopter.
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Vietnam War Operations: The ship saw extensive action during the Vietnam War, providing gunfire support for ground forces, search and rescue operations, and plane guard duty for aircraft carriers.
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Rescue Missions: During her Vietnam service, John R. Craig rescued downed pilots and participated in several search and rescue operations, demonstrating the versatility and humanitarian role of destroyers.
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Notable Collision: On 21 March 1975, John R. Craig collided with the fleet oiler USS Ponchatoula (AO-148) during refueling operations, resulting in significant bow damage but no loss of life.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS John R. Craig was decommissioned on 27 September 1979 and later sunk as a target during fleet training exercises in 1980.
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Honors and Legacy: Over her 34 years of service, John R. Craig earned a total of 12 battle stars (5 for Korea, 7 for Vietnam), reflecting her extensive combat and operational record. Her name continues to be remembered in naval history.
