About this Unit
USS WREN (DD-568) was a Fletcher-class destroyer commissioned by the United States Navy in May 1944. During World War II, WREN served in the Pacific Theater, providing anti-aircraft screening, shore bombardment, and escort duties during operations such as the invasions of the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. The destroyer earned several battle stars for her service before being decommissioned in 1947. Recommissioned for service during the Korean War, WREN continued to serve until her final decommissioning in 1963.
Historical Facts
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Named After: USS WREN (DD-568) was named in honor of Master Commandant Jacob Wren, a naval officer who served during the War of 1812.
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Fletcher-class Destroyer: WREN belonged to the legendary Fletcher-class, the largest and one of the most successful destroyer classes built by the United States during World War II.
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Commissioning: She was launched on 29 March 1942 by the Seattle-Tacoma Shipbuilding Corporation and commissioned on 20 May 1944.
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WWII Pacific Service: USS WREN saw extensive action in the Pacific Theater, providing escort and fire support during major campaigns, including the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa operations.
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Kamikaze Attack: On 16 June 1945, WREN was struck by a kamikaze aircraft off Okinawa, resulting in damage and casualties, but her crew's quick response saved the ship.
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Post-War Decommissioning: After WWII, WREN was decommissioned in May 1946 and placed in reserve at San Diego, reflecting the rapid postwar drawdown of the US fleet.
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Korean War Reactivation: The outbreak of the Korean War led to WREN's recommissioning in February 1951, where she served in anti-submarine and escort roles.
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Far East Deployments: During the 1950s, WREN made multiple deployments to the Western Pacific as part of the US Seventh Fleet, participating in patrols and exercises during the Cold War.
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Decommissioning and Fate: WREN was finally decommissioned on 19 May 1963 and struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1971, later being sold for scrap.
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Battle Stars: Over her service life, USS WREN earned 4 battle stars for World War II service and 2 battle stars for Korean War service, reflecting her significant contributions.
