Ships of Pearl Harbor: USS Chew

When we think of Pearl Harbor, names like the USS Arizona often come to mind, but many other vessels played crucial roles during and after the infamous attack. One such ship is the USS Chew (DD-106), a lesser-known but equally significant destroyer.

The USS Chew was commissioned on December 12, 1918, towards the end of World War I. Named after Samuel Chew, a distinguished naval officer, the ship initially served in various capacities, including training and fleet maneuvers along the West Coast and in the Pacific. By 1941, the USS Chew was stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, a strategic location that would soon become the center of global attention.

The USS Chew was a Wickes-class destroyer, known for its speed and agility. Here are some key specifications:

• Length: 314 feet
• Beam: 31 feet
• Draft: 9 feet
• Displacement: 1,190 tons

Equipped for both offensive and defensive operations, the USS Chew had:

• Four 4-inch/50 caliber guns
• One 3-inch/23 caliber anti-aircraft gun
• Twelve 21-inch torpedo tubes

Compared to other destroyers of its time, the Chew was relatively standard in terms of armament but excelled with its high speed, capable of reaching up to 35 knots, making it a versatile vessel in various naval engagements.

The USS Chew was renowned for its exceptional speed and maneuverability, allowing it to swiftly respond to changing combat situations. Its advanced radar and sonar systems also provided enhanced detection capabilities, giving it an edge in reconnaissance and anti-submarine operations.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, the USS Chew was moored at the Navy Yard in Pearl Harbor. As Japanese aircraft filled the skies, the crew of the Chew quickly sprang into action. The crew of the USS Chew responded with remarkable speed and bravery. Manning their anti-aircraft guns, they engaged the incoming enemy planes. Despite being a destroyer, not typically designed for anti-aircraft warfare, the Chew managed to shoot down several attacking aircraft. Remarkably, the USS Chew sustained minimal damage during the attack. This allowed it to remain operational and assist in the immediate aftermath, providing critical support to other damaged vessels and helping to maintain the harbor’s defenses.

The bravery of the USS Chew’s crew cannot be overstated. Key figures included Lieutenant Commander Louis H. Thebaud, who led with distinction, ensuring the ship’s readiness and effective response during the attack. There are numerous accounts of individual heroism. Sailors worked tirelessly under fire, showcasing incredible resilience and dedication. Their efforts were instrumental in the Chew’s ability to counterattack and support the fleet. Life on board the USS Chew during the Pearl Harbor attack was chaotic yet focused. The crew operated under immense pressure, demonstrating extraordinary composure and teamwork in the face of an unprecedented assault.

Following the attack, the USS Chew underwent necessary repairs and upgrades to enhance its combat capabilities. This included overhauls to its armament and improvements in its radar and sonar systems. After repairs, the USS Chew continued to serve valiantly throughout the Pacific theater. It participated in convoy escort duties, and anti-submarine patrols, and provided support for amphibious operations, contributing significantly to the Allied war effort. The USS Chew’s service extended beyond combat missions. It played a vital role in training new naval personnel and preparing them for the rigors of war. Its presence in the Pacific was a testament to the relentless spirit of the U.S. Navy.

The USS Chew was decommissioned on October 15, 1945, after a distinguished career. While not as widely known as some other ships, the USS Chew appears in various historical accounts and documentaries about Pearl Harbor, ensuring its story remains part of the broader narrative of WWII.