Navy Ships Named for Pearl Harbor Heroes

Pearl Harbor, a somber and pivotal event in American history, has left an indelible mark on the world. Honoring those who showed extraordinary bravery during this attack, several navy ships have been named after Pearl Harbor heroes. These vessels serve as floating tributes, ensuring that the valor and sacrifice of these individuals are never forgotten. Let’s explore the stories behind these ships and the heroes they commemorate.

Seaman First Class James Richard Ward displayed remarkable courage during the Pearl Harbor attack. Despite the imminent danger, he remained at his post to help his shipmates, ultimately sacrificing his life—the USS J. Richard Ward was a Cannon-class destroyer escort commissioned in 1943. It was designed for anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. The ship served in various operations during World War II, including patrol and escort missions in the Atlantic. The USS J. Richard Ward played a crucial role in safeguarding Allied convoys, reflecting the bravery of its namesake.

Captain Franklin Van Valkenburgh was the commanding officer of the USS Arizona during the Pearl Harbor attack. He remained on the bridge, directing defense efforts until he was killed. The USS Van Valkenburgh was a Fletcher-class destroyer, commissioned in 1944. Known for its speed and firepower, it was a formidable asset in the U.S. Navy.The ship participated in several key battles in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Okinawa campaign. Its service was a testament to Captain Van Valkenburgh’s leadership and courage.

Chief Radioman Thomas J. Reeves showed exceptional heroism during the attack by helping to keep ammunition supplies flowing despite the chaos and his own injuries. The USS Reeves was a Buckley-class destroyer escort, commissioned in 1943. It was primarily used for anti-submarine operations and convoy protection. The ship saw extensive service in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, escorting convoys and engaging enemy submarines. The USS Reeves upheld the spirit of dedication exhibited by its namesake.

Chief Watertender Peter Tomich stayed in the boiler room of the USS Utah, securing the boilers and ensuring the safety of his shipmates until his last moments. The USS Tomich was a Cannon-class destroyer escort, commissioned in 1943. It was equipped to handle anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. Throughout its service, the USS Tomich was involved in Atlantic convoy duties and anti-submarine patrols, embodying the selflessness and bravery of Peter Tomich.

Machinist’s Mate First Class Robert R. Scott was stationed on the USS California. He refused to abandon his post in the ship’s flooding compartment, choosing to keep air compressors running to aid his fellow sailors. The USS Scott was a Buckley-class destroyer escort, commissioned in 1943. It was designed to provide protection against submarine threats. The ship served valiantly in the Atlantic, participating in escort missions and anti-submarine warfare. The legacy of Robert R. Scott’s bravery lived on through its operations.

Ensign Herbert C. Jones demonstrated extraordinary valor during the attack, aiding in the rescue of his fellow crew members on the USS California, despite being severely wounded. The USS Herbert C. Jones was an Edsall-class destroyer escort, commissioned in 1943. It specialized in anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort duties. The ship played a vital role in Atlantic and Mediterranean operations, ensuring the safe passage of numerous convoys. It stood as a beacon of Ensign Jones’ heroic spirit.

Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd was killed on the bridge of the USS Arizona, commanding his forces with unwavering resolve during the attack. The USS Kidd was a Fletcher-class destroyer, commissioned in 1943. It was named in honor of Rear Admiral Kidd and designed for versatility in combat operations. The ship earned a distinguished service record in the Pacific, participating in numerous battles including Okinawa and the Philippines. The USS Kidd embodied the steadfast leadership of its namesake.

Chief Boatswain Edwin J. Hill showed immense bravery, detaching the USS Nevada from its moorings under fire and later perishing while attempting to beach the ship. The USS Hill was an Edsall-class destroyer escort, commissioned in 1943. It was built for anti-submarine warfare and convoy escort missions. The ship served in the Atlantic, protecting convoys from submarine threats and ensuring safe naval operations. The heroism of Edwin J. Hill was mirrored in its missions.

Captain Mervyn S. Bennion, commanding officer of the USS West Virginia, valiantly directed his ship’s defense until he was mortally wounded. The USS Bennion was a Fletcher-class destroyer, commissioned in 1943. It was crafted for high-speed operations and heavy firepower. The ship took part in critical battles in the Pacific, including Leyte Gulf and Okinawa, upholding the bravery and leadership exemplified by Captain Bennion.

The ships named after Pearl Harbor heroes have left an indelible mark on naval history. Their service records reflect the valor and dedication of their namesakes, ensuring that the legacy of Pearl Harbor heroes continues to inspire future generations. Ceremonies, reunions, and memorials often honor these ships and the heroes they represent, keeping their stories alive in public memory.

The navy ships named for Pearl Harbor heroes serve as powerful reminders of the courage and sacrifice displayed during one of America’s darkest days. These vessels not only carried out critical wartime missions but also upheld the legacy of their namesakes through their steadfast service. By commemorating these heroes, we ensure that their bravery continues to inspire and guide us.