USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729)

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729)

USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. She saw extensive action in the Pacific Theater during World War II, providing fire support during the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa and surviving multiple kamikaze attacks. During the Korean War, Lyman K. Swenson served as a screening ship and participated in the bombardment of enemy positions along the Korean coast. The destroyer continued her service through the Cold War era, participating in various training and patrol duties until she was decommissioned in 1971.

Unit Members

Bruce Arnold

U.S. Navy

USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729)View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729)

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Namesake: USS Lyman K. Swenson (DD-729) was named after Rear Admiral Lyman Knute Swenson, who was killed in action during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942. • Class and Type: The ship was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, one of the most advanced destroyer types fielded by the US Navy during World War II. • WWII Service: Commissioned on 2 May 1944, she participated in major Pacific Theater operations, including the Philippines campaign, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. • Kamikaze Attack: On 11 May 1945, Lyman K. Swenson narrowly avoided a kamikaze attack off Okinawa, demonstrating the peril faced by US ships during that campaign. • Korean War: She served extensively during the Korean War, providing shore bombardment, screening, and patrol duties, and earning five battle stars for her service. • Rescue Mission: In 1951, she played a key role in rescuing downed pilots and sailors after engagements off the coast of Korea, showcasing her versatility as a destroyer. • Vietnam War: The destroyer served in the Vietnam War, performing naval gunfire support and search-and-rescue operations, and earning three more battle stars. • Hollywood Appearance: USS Lyman K. Swenson portrayed the fictitious USS Ward in the 1954 film "The Caine Mutiny," starring Humphrey Bogart. • Ship Motto: Her motto was "Courage and Loyalty," reflecting the values of her namesake and crew. • Decommissioning and Fate: She was decommissioned in 1971 and struck from the Naval Register in 1974. The ship was sold for scrap in 1975, ending over 27 years of distinguished service.