About this Unit
USS Twining (DD-540) was a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in December 1943. Named after Rear Admiral Nathan C. Twining, she saw extensive service in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major operations such as the Marianas, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa campaigns. Twining provided vital fire support, engaged enemy aircraft, and performed escort and screening duties for larger fleet units. After World War II, she was decommissioned in 1947, later transferred to the Republic of China Navy in 1971, and served as ROCS Kwei Yang (DDG-908) until her retirement.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Twining (DD-540) was named after Rear Admiral Nathan C. Twining, a decorated officer who served during the Spanish–American War and World War I.
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Fletcher-class Destroyer: Twining was part of the famous Fletcher-class, one of the largest and most successful destroyer classes ever built by the United States Navy during World War II.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in December 1943, Twining served extensively in the Pacific Theater, participating in key battles such as the Marianas campaign, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the battle for Leyte Gulf.
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Typhoon Cobra Survivor: In December 1944, Twining survived Typhoon Cobra, a deadly storm that sank three destroyers and damaged numerous other ships in Admiral Halsey’s Third Fleet.
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Kamikaze Attacks: During the Okinawa campaign in 1945, Twining was frequently attacked by Japanese kamikaze aircraft but managed to avoid serious damage.
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Rescue Operations: Twining played a role in rescuing downed American pilots and survivors from other damaged or sunken ships during combat operations.
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Korean War Reactivation: After being decommissioned in 1946, Twining was recommissioned for service during the Korean War, where she provided gunfire support and served on patrol duties.
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Far East Deployments: In the 1950s, Twining participated in several Far East cruises, visiting Japan, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, and taking part in exercises with allied navies.
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Decommissioning and Transfer: Twining was decommissioned for the final time in 1958 and transferred to the Republic of China Navy, where she served as ROCS Kuei Yang (DD-8).
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Legacy: USS Twining earned eight battle stars for World War II service and five for Korean War service, marking her as one of the more decorated destroyers of her era.
