About this Unit
USS PURDY (DD-734) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. The ship served with distinction during World War II, participating in operations off Okinawa and providing vital anti-aircraft and fire support. After the war, USS PURDY took part in occupation duties in Japan and later served during the Korean War, conducting patrols and screening carrier task forces. The vessel continued to serve through the Cold War era before being decommissioned in 1973.
Historical Facts
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Namesake Honor: USS Purdy (DD-734) was named after Lieutenant Commander Frederick Warren Purdy, a US Navy officer killed in action during World War II at Guadalcanal.
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Allen M. Sumner-class Destroyer: Purdy was part of the Allen M. Sumner-class, known for their enhanced anti-aircraft capabilities and improved living conditions compared to earlier Fletcher-class destroyers.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in July 1944, Purdy provided fire support during the pivotal Battle of Okinawa, helping to repel Kamikaze attacks and supporting amphibious landings.
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Kamikaze Attack Survivor: On April 12, 1945, while off Okinawa, Purdy was struck by a Kamikaze aircraft. The impact killed 15 crew members and wounded 25, but the ship’s crew managed to save the vessel from destruction.
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Postwar Occupation Duty: After Japan's surrender, Purdy assisted in occupation duties, including minesweeping and overseeing surrender arrangements in Japanese waters.
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Korean War Service: Reactivated for the Korean War, Purdy performed escort duties, shore bombardment, and anti-submarine patrols in support of United Nations operations.
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Cold War Operations: Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Purdy participated in numerous NATO exercises, Mediterranean deployments, and served as a training ship for Naval Reservists.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, Purdy was part of the naval quarantine forces during the Cuban Missile Crisis, helping to enforce the blockade of Cuba.
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Humanitarian Missions: Purdy assisted in rescuing crews from damaged or sinking vessels during her peacetime service, showcasing the Navy’s commitment to humanitarian assistance.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Purdy was decommissioned on September 1, 1965, struck from the Navy list, and later sold for scrap, ending over two decades of distinguished service.
