About this Unit
USS Wadsworth (DD-516) was a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in July 1943. She served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major operations such as the Solomon Islands campaign, the Marianas, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Known for her effective anti-aircraft and escort capabilities, USS Wadsworth earned six battle stars for her wartime service. After the war, she was transferred to the West German Navy in 1959, where she served as Zerstörer 3 before being decommissioned in 1980.
Historical Facts
•
Namesake: USS Wadsworth (DD-516) was named in honor of Commodore Alexander S. Wadsworth, a distinguished officer in the United States Navy who served during the War of 1812.
•
Class and Commissioning: She was a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the most famous and numerous classes of destroyers in World War II, and was commissioned on March 16, 1943.
•
Baptism of Fire: The Wadsworth saw her first major action in the Solomon Islands campaign, supporting landings and engaging in anti-aircraft and anti-submarine operations.
•
D-Day at Normandy (Pacific-Style): She played a key role as the lead destroyer during the initial landings at Guam in July 1944, providing close fire support and silencing enemy positions.
•
Kamikaze Encounters: During the Okinawa campaign, Wadsworth faced relentless kamikaze attacks, successfully shooting down several enemy planes, and survived the intense air raids that claimed many other ships.
•
Rescue Operations: Wadsworth rescued numerous downed American pilots and sailors during her Pacific tours, often braving enemy fire and hazardous conditions to do so.
•
Presidential Escort: In July 1944, the ship was part of the escort for the USS Baltimore, which carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Pearl Harbor for a meeting with Admiral Nimitz and General MacArthur.
•
Battle Stars: For her service during World War II, USS Wadsworth earned seven battle stars, a testament to her extensive and distinguished combat record.
•
Post-War Service: After World War II, she was transferred to the West German Navy in 1959, where she served as Zerstörer 3 (D172) until 1980.
•
Legacy: Wadsworth’s bell is preserved and displayed at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., serving as a tribute to her crew and her storied service.
