About this Unit
USS Ozbourn (DD-846) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1946. Named after Marine Corporal Joseph W. Ozbourn, a Medal of Honor recipient, the ship served actively during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and engaging in anti-submarine operations. Throughout the Cold War, Ozbourn participated in numerous exercises and deployments, including service during the Vietnam War where she conducted shore bombardments and plane guard duties. After decades of distinguished service, USS Ozbourn was decommissioned in 1975.
Historical Facts
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Namesake Hero: USS Ozbourn (DD-846) was named in honor of Marine Private Joseph W. Ozbourn, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Battle of Tinian in World War II.
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Gearing-class Destroyer: The ship belonged to the prolific Gearing-class, one of the largest classes of destroyers built for the US Navy, designed for improved endurance and anti-submarine warfare.
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Commissioned Post-WWII: Ozbourn was commissioned on March 5, 1946, just after the end of World War II, and thus saw much of her service during the Cold War era.
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Korean War Heroics: The destroyer participated extensively in the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support, screening carriers, and rescuing downed pilots under enemy fire.
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Famous Rescue: On February 17, 1951, Ozbourn rescued a downed US pilot near Wonsan, North Korea, by sending a small boat under heavy fire—earning the crew a Navy Unit Commendation.
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Vietnam War Service: Ozbourn was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, conducting gunfire support missions, search and rescue, and carrier screening operations throughout the conflict.
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FRAM Modernization: In the early 1960s, Ozbourn underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, receiving advanced anti-submarine warfare equipment and helicopter facilities.
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Onboard Accident: In 1968, during Vietnam operations, Ozbourn suffered a tragic 5-inch gun mount explosion, resulting in fatalities and injuries, but the crew’s rapid response saved the ship.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, Ozbourn took part in the naval quarantine of Cuba, helping to enforce the blockade during the tense standoff with the Soviet Union.
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Decommissioning and Fate: After nearly 30 years of service, USS Ozbourn was decommissioned on February 1, 1975, and later sunk as a target during naval exercises on May 1, 1981.
