About this Unit
USS Tingey (DD-539) was a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943 during World War II. She participated in numerous Pacific Theater operations, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, and shore bombardments in support of amphibious landings. Tingey was credited with rescuing survivors and providing vital anti-aircraft and anti-submarine defense for carrier task forces. After the war, she served briefly before being decommissioned in 1947, having earned eight battle stars for her distinguished service.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Tingey (DD-539) was named after Commodore Thomas Tingey, a distinguished early officer in the United States Navy and the first commandant of the Washington Navy Yard.
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Class and Commission: Tingey was a Fletcher-class destroyer, commissioned on 25 November 1943, a class renowned for its versatility and effectiveness during World War II.
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World War II Service: USS Tingey earned five battle stars for her service during World War II, participating in major Pacific operations including the Marianas, Leyte Gulf, Luzon, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa campaigns.
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Surviving the "Great Typhoon": Tingey survived the infamous Typhoon Cobra (Halsey's Typhoon) in December 1944, a storm that sank three destroyers and damaged many other ships in the Third Fleet.
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Kamikaze Defense: During the Okinawa campaign, Tingey was frequently attacked by Japanese kamikaze aircraft, but thanks to her crew's alertness and gunnery, she avoided serious damage.
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Flagship Role: Tingey served as the flagship of Destroyer Division 112, leading her division in various operations, including anti-submarine and anti-aircraft warfare.
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Rescue Missions: The crew of the Tingey rescued downed American aviators and survivors of stricken ships on multiple occasions, showcasing bravery and seamanship under fire.
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Postwar Service: After World War II, Tingey participated in Operation Magic Carpet, helping to bring American servicemen back home from the Pacific.
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Decommissioning: Tingey was decommissioned in 1947 and placed in reserve, but she was never recommissioned for active duty in subsequent conflicts like Korea or Vietnam.
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Legacy: The ship's bell and other artifacts are preserved as memorials, and she remains a symbol of the valiant destroyer crews who served in the Pacific during World War II.
