About this Unit
USS Rogers (DD-876) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Named after Rear Admiral John Rodgers and his family, the ship served with distinction during the final months of World War II and in subsequent conflicts. Throughout her career, Rogers participated in operations during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and screening carrier task forces. She also served in the Vietnam War, conducting shore bombardments and patrol duties before being decommissioned in 1981 and later transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy.
Historical Facts
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Fletcher-class Destroyer: USS Rogers (DD-876) was a Gearing-class destroyer, not a Fletcher-class, commissioned in the US Navy after World War II in 1945.
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Named for Three Brothers: The ship was uniquely named in honor of three brothers—Jack Ellis Rogers, Charles Ethbert Rogers, and Edward Keith Rogers—who all lost their lives in World War II.
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Immediate Post-WWII Service: Although commissioned too late for World War II combat, USS Rogers was actively involved in postwar operations, helping to stabilize and patrol the Pacific.
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Korean War Service: Rogers saw extensive action during the Korean War, providing gunfire support, screening aircraft carriers, and participating in blockade and escort duties.
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FRAM Overhaul: In the early 1960s, USS Rogers underwent a Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) overhaul, receiving new anti-submarine warfare (ASW) equipment and an updated appearance.
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Vietnam War Patrols: Rogers served multiple tours off Vietnam, providing naval gunfire support, plane guard duties for carriers, and search-and-rescue operations.
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Space Recovery: USS Rogers participated in the recovery efforts for the Gemini 8 space mission in 1966, helping to ensure the safe return of the astronauts.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, Rogers took part in various humanitarian missions, including evacuating refugees and delivering aid during regional crises in Asia.
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Transfer to South Korea: Decommissioned from US Navy service in 1981, USS Rogers was transferred to the Republic of Korea Navy, where she served as ROKS Jeonju (DD-925).
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Final Fate: After decades of service, the ship was eventually decommissioned by South Korea in 1999 and later scrapped, ending a long and distinguished career spanning over half a century.
