About this Unit
USS Somers (DDG-34) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1962. Named after Master Commandant Richard Somers, she served extensively during the Cold War, providing anti-aircraft and anti-submarine defense for carrier task forces. Throughout her service, Somers participated in numerous exercises and operations, including deployments to the Mediterranean and the Western Pacific. The ship was decommissioned in 1982 and later expended as a target in 1998.
Historical Facts
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USS Somers (DDG-34) Origins: The USS Somers (DDG-34) was originally commissioned as a guided missile destroyer, part of the Charles F. Adams-class, and named after Master Commandant Richard Somers, a naval hero from the First Barbary War.
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Conversion from Destroyer: She was first commissioned as USS Somers (DD-947) in 1959, and later converted to a guided missile destroyer (DDG-34) in 1967 to enhance her air defense capabilities.
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Vietnam War Service: USS Somers served with distinction during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and plane guard duties for aircraft carriers on Yankee Station.
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Technological Upgrades: As part of her conversion, Somers was fitted with the Tartar Guided Missile System, significantly improving her ability to defend against air threats.
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Participated in Operation "Sea Spirit": In 1968, Somers took part in NATO’s Operation "Sea Spirit," a large-scale exercise demonstrating allied naval cooperation during the Cold War.
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Homeport: Her homeport was San Diego, California, and she was a frequent presence in the Pacific, supporting U.S. Navy operations across the region.
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Multiple Deployments: During her service, the ship made numerous deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, symbolizing U.S. naval power projection.
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Rescue Operations: In 1970, Somers was involved in the rescue of Vietnamese refugees fleeing the aftermath of the war, showing the humanitarian side of naval missions.
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Decommissioning: The USS Somers was decommissioned in 1982 after more than two decades of active service due to advancements in naval technology and the age of the ship.
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Final Fate: After being struck from the Naval Vessel Register, Somers was sunk as a target during fleet training exercises in 1998, ending her long and storied career.
