USS Soley (DD 707)

• Namesake: USS Soley (DD-707) was named after James R. Soley, a distinguished naval historian and Assistant Secretary of the Navy in the late 19th century. • Class and Type: She was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, known for their improved combat capabilities and anti-aircraft armament over previous classes. • World War II Service: Commissioned in December 1944, Soley joined the Pacific Fleet in 1945 and participated in operations off Okinawa, including anti-aircraft and screening duties. • Kamikaze Encounters: During Okinawa operations, Soley faced intense kamikaze attacks, surviving near-misses and contributing to the defense against suicide aircraft. • Post-War Occupation: After Japan’s surrender, Soley served with the occupation forces in Japan and Korea, supporting the transition to peace. • Korean War Service: The ship was recommissioned for the Korean War and provided naval gunfire support, screening, and patrol duties along the Korean peninsula. • Cold War Patrols: Soley participated in NATO exercises and Mediterranean cruises with the U.S. Sixth Fleet, projecting American naval power during the Cold War. • Humanitarian Mission: In 1958, during the Lebanon Crisis, Soley helped evacuate Americans and supported U.S. Marine landings in Beirut. • Notable Rescue: In 1960, the crew of Soley rescued survivors from the burning Greek freighter Marina in the Atlantic Ocean, showcasing their peacetime readiness. • Decommissioning: After over 25 years of service, USS Soley was decommissioned in 1970 and later sold for scrap in 1975, closing the chapter on a distinguished naval career.