About this Unit
USS Walker (DD-517) was a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in April 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. Walker provided vital escort, shore bombardment, and anti-aircraft defense, earning 11 battle stars for her wartime service. After the war, she was decommissioned in 1946 and later transferred to the Italian Navy in 1959, where she served as Fante (D-561) until being scrapped in 1977.
Historical Facts
• Namesake: USS Walker (DD-517) was named after Admiral John Grimes Walker, a notable figure in the U.S. Navy who served during the American Civil War and later as chairman of the Isthmian Canal Commission.
• Fletcher-class destroyer: Walker was a Fletcher-class destroyer, the most numerous class of destroyers ever built, known for their versatility, speed, and durability during World War II.
• Launched in 1942: USS Walker was launched on 31 October 1942 by the Federal Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Kearny, New Jersey, and commissioned on 3 April 1943.
• Pacific Theater Service: Walker served extensively in the Pacific Theater during WWII, participating in operations such as the invasions of Bougainville, the Marianas, Leyte, and Luzon.
• Battle of Leyte Gulf: She played a vital role in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles in history, performing escort and screening duties for aircraft carriers.
• Kamikaze Attack: On 11 January 1945, while off Lingayen Gulf, Walker was damaged by a near-miss from a Japanese kamikaze, suffering casualties but remaining operational.
• Post-War Service: After WWII, Walker assisted in occupation duties in Korea and China, helping to stabilize the region and support U.S. interests.
• Korean War: Reactivated for the Korean War, Walker provided naval gunfire support, screened carriers, and participated in the blockade of North Korea.
• Vietnam War Involvement: Walker served again during the Vietnam War, performing patrol and gunfire support missions, demonstrating the longevity and adaptability of the Fletcher-class.
• Transfer to Italy: Decommissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1969, Walker was transferred to the Italian Navy, where she served as Fante (D-561) until her final decommissioning in 1977.
