USS Mullany

• Namesake: USS Mullany (DD-528) was named after Rear Admiral James Robert Madison Mullany, a distinguished officer who served in the US Navy during the 19th century. • Class and Type: She was a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the most famous and widely used destroyer classes during World War II. • Commissioning Date: USS Mullany was commissioned on 23 April 1943, at the height of World War II. • Pacific Theater Service: The destroyer served extensively in the Pacific, participating in major campaigns such as the invasions of Saipan, Tinian, and Leyte Gulf. • Kamikaze Attack Survivor: On 6 April 1945, during the Battle of Okinawa, Mullany was struck by a Japanese kamikaze plane, which caused a massive explosion when it hit her depth charges. Despite severe damage and casualties, the ship was not lost and was eventually repaired. • Heroic Damage Control: The crew’s effective damage control efforts after the kamikaze hit saved the ship from sinking. The ship’s captain, Commander Albert M. Bledsoe, received the Navy Cross for his leadership during the crisis. • Battle Stars: USS Mullany earned ten battle stars for her World War II service, reflecting her extensive combat involvement. • Korean War Service: After World War II, Mullany was recommissioned for service in the Korean War, providing gunfire support and participating in patrols. • Transfer to Taiwan: In 1971, USS Mullany was transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy and renamed ROCS Chiang Yang (DD-2), serving until 1999. • Legacy: Parts of the ship, such as her nameplate and bell, have been preserved as memorials, and she is remembered for her resilience and the bravery of her crew.