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History of USS Hoel (DDG-13)

USS Hoel (DDG-13) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1962. Named after Commander Ernest E. Hoel, a hero of the Battle off Samar in World War II, the ship served during the height of the Cold War. USS Hoel participated in major operations during the Vietnam War, including naval gunfire support and carrier escort duties. After nearly three decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1990 and later sunk as a target during fleet exercises in 1992.

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ABOUT USS Hoel (DDG-13)

  • Named After a Hero: USS Hoel (DDG-13) was named in honor of Lieutenant Commander William R. Hoel, a naval officer who distinguished himself during the American Civil War.
  • Second Ship to Bear the Name: DDG-13 was the second US Navy ship named Hoel. The first, USS Hoel (DD-533), famously fought and was sunk during the Battle off Samar in World War II.
  • Charles F. Adams Class: She was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer, equipped with the Tartar missile system, making her a formidable air defense ship during the Cold War.
  • Commissioned in 1962: USS Hoel was commissioned on 16 June 1962, serving the United States Navy for nearly three decades.
  • Vietnam War Service: Hoel saw active combat during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and participating in carrier escort duties.
  • First U.S. Ship to Fire Tartar Missiles in Combat: During her Vietnam service, she became the first US Navy ship to fire Tartar missiles in combat, defending against potential air threats.
  • Cold War Operations: Throughout her career, Hoel conducted numerous operations and exercises with allied navies, projecting US naval power during the height of the Cold War.
  • Collision at Sea: In 1972, Hoel collided with the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CV-34) in the Gulf of Tonkin, but both ships were able to continue their missions after repairs.
  • Technological Upgrades: She received several upgrades during her service, including improvements to her missile, radar, and electronic warfare systems to keep pace with evolving threats.
  • Decommissioning and Fate: USS Hoel was decommissioned on 1 October 1990 and ultimately sold for scrap in 1994, closing the chapter on nearly 30 years of service.

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