About this Unit
USS Rowan (DD-782) was a Gearing-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. After serving briefly in the final months of World War II, Rowan was active during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and screening aircraft carriers. The ship also saw extensive service during the Vietnam War, participating in operations such as Sea Dragon and offering naval gunfire support along the Vietnamese coast. Decommissioned from U.S. service in 1975, Rowan was transferred to the Republic of China Navy, where she served as ROCS Lai Yang (DD-20) until her retirement.
Historical Facts
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Gearing-class Destroyer: USS Rowan (DD-782) was a Gearing-class destroyer, one of the most numerous and versatile classes of destroyers built for the US Navy during World War II and the Cold War.
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Named After a Hero: The ship was named in honor of Rear Admiral Stephen C. Rowan, a distinguished officer who served in the Mexican-American War and the Civil War.
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Commissioned in 1945: USS Rowan was commissioned on 31 March 1945, just months before the end of World War II, and saw only limited action before the war concluded.
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Korean War Service: Rowan served with distinction during the Korean War, conducting shore bombardment, screening aircraft carriers, and performing anti-submarine patrols.
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The FRAM Upgrade: In the early 1960s, Rowan underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM I) program, receiving significant upgrades in anti-submarine warfare capabilities, including new sonar and weapons systems.
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Vietnam War Action: USS Rowan played an active role during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support, plane guard duties for aircraft carriers, and search and rescue operations.
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Rescue Operations: In 1967, Rowan played a key role in rescuing the crew of the USS Forrestal after a devastating fire, assisting in controlling damage and evacuating injured sailors.
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Multiple Battle Stars: The ship earned a total of 11 battle stars for her service in Korea and Vietnam, reflecting her extensive combat contributions.
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Transferred to Taiwan: After being decommissioned from US Navy service in 1975, Rowan was transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy, where she served as ROCS Chao Yang (DD-16).
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Final Fate: Rowan served with the Taiwanese navy until 1999, after which she was decommissioned and eventually scrapped, ending more than five decades of distinguished service.
