About this Unit
USS Putnam (DD-757) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. She served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, providing fire support and screening for carrier task forces, and participated in the Okinawa campaign. After the war, Putnam assisted in occupation duties in Japan and later served during the Korean War, conducting patrols and bombardment missions. Decommissioned in 1973, the USS Putnam earned several battle stars for her distinguished service.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Putnam (DD-757) was named in honor of Charles Flint Putnam, a distinguished naval aviator who was lost during the Battle of Midway in June 1942.
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Class and Type: The ship was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, an important class that featured improved anti-aircraft capabilities and dual-purpose guns.
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Commissioning: USS Putnam was launched on 26 September 1944 and commissioned on 12 December 1944 at Bethlehem Steel Co., Staten Island, New York.
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World War II Service: The destroyer saw action in the Pacific Theater during World War II, providing fire support for landings at Okinawa and rescuing downed pilots.
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Kamikaze Attacks: During the Okinawa campaign, USS Putnam was attacked by kamikaze aircraft but managed to evade direct hits, demonstrating the skill of her crew.
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Rescue Operations: On 6 April 1945, Putnam rescued survivors from the sinking USS Bush (DD-529) and USS Colhoun (DD-801), displaying commendable bravery under fire.
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Postwar Activities: After World War II, the ship participated in occupation duties in Japan and was present in Tokyo Bay during the formal Japanese surrender.
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Korean War Service: USS Putnam was recommissioned for the Korean War, providing shore bombardment, screening carriers, and serving in the Taiwan Strait.
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Cold War Deployments: The destroyer continued its service during the Cold War, conducting Mediterranean and Atlantic deployments, and participating in NATO exercises.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Putnam was finally decommissioned on 6 October 1973 and was sold for scrap in 1975, concluding nearly 30 years of distinguished service.
