USS John R. Craig (DD-885)

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.