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History of USS Waddell (DDG-24)

USS Waddell (DDG-24) was a Charles F. Adams-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1964. Named after Civil War officer James Iredell Waddell, the ship served extensively during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and participating in carrier escort operations. Throughout her career, Waddell conducted multiple deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, supporting U.S. interests during the Cold War. Decommissioned in 1992, USS Waddell was later transferred to the Hellenic Navy of Greece, where she served as Nearchos (D219) before being retired.

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ABOUT USS Waddell (DDG-24)

  • Charles F. Waddell Namesake: USS Waddell (DDG-24) was named after Captain James Iredell Waddell, a Confederate naval officer famed for commanding the CSS Shenandoah during the American Civil War.
  • Forrest Sherman-class Destroyer: USS Waddell was a Charles F. Adams-class guided-missile destroyer, not Forrest Sherman, and was the 14th ship of its class.
  • Commissioning Date: The ship was commissioned into the U.S. Navy on August 28, 1964, at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
  • Vietnam War Service: Waddell served three deployments off Vietnam (1965–1973), providing naval gunfire support, plane guard duties, and anti-aircraft protection for aircraft carriers.
  • Rescue Operations: In 1970, Waddell rescued the crew of a downed helicopter in the Gulf of Tonkin, earning the crew commendations for bravery.
  • Operation Linebacker: Waddell participated in Operation Linebacker in 1972, supporting airstrikes and blockades against North Vietnam.
  • Unique Motto: The ship’s motto was "Tenax Propositi" (Steadfast of Purpose), reflecting her crew’s determination and resolve.
  • Decommissioning: USS Waddell was decommissioned by the U.S. Navy on October 1, 1992, after nearly 30 years of service.
  • Service in the Hellenic Navy: After decommissioning, the ship was transferred to Greece and served as HS Nearchos (D219) until 2003.
  • Final Fate: In 2006, the former USS Waddell was sunk as a target during a NATO naval exercise, ending her long and storied career.

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