About this Unit
USS WALKE (DD-723) was an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in January 1944. She served with distinction in World War II, participating in key operations such as the Normandy invasion, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, and the Battle of Okinawa, where she survived a devastating kamikaze attack in June 1945. After the war, USS WALKE was modernized and saw combat again during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support and screening for carrier task forces. The destroyer continued her service throughout the Cold War before being decommissioned in 1970, closing a remarkable chapter in U.S. naval history.
Historical Facts
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Named After: USS Walke (DD-723) was named in honor of Rear Admiral Henry A. Walke, a distinguished officer in the U.S. Navy who served in the Mexican–American War and the Civil War.
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Fletcher-Class Destroyer: She was a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the most famous destroyer classes used by the U.S. Navy during World War II, known for their durability and firepower.
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Launched in 1943: USS Walke was launched on 27 October 1943 and commissioned on 21 January 1944, joining the Pacific Fleet during a critical phase of World War II.
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Survived Kamikaze Attacks: During operations off Leyte Gulf in November 1944, the Walke was hit by a kamikaze aircraft, suffering significant damage and casualties but managed to remain afloat and return for repairs.
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Battle off Samar: Walke was present during the Battle off Samar (part of the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf), one of the most dramatic naval actions in U.S. history, where smaller U.S. ships fought against a superior Japanese force.
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Korean War Service: Recommissioned for the Korean War, she provided naval gunfire support, anti-submarine screening, and patrol duties, earning four battle stars for her Korean service.
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Vietnam War Duty: USS Walke served during the Vietnam War, participating in shore bombardments, search and rescue, and plane guard duties for aircraft carriers.
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Collision Incident: In 1960, Walke was involved in a collision with the USS Waller (DD-466) during night operations off the U.S. east coast, resulting in damage but no loss of life.
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Decommissioned in 1970: After more than 25 years of service across three major conflicts (World War II, Korea, Vietnam), she was decommissioned in 1970 and later scrapped.
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Highly Decorated: For her World War II service, USS Walke received six battle stars, reflecting her active and courageous participation in major Pacific campaigns.
