Ships of Pearl Harbor: USS Ramsay

Ship of Pearl Harbor, The USS Ramsay (DD-124), a Wickes-class destroyer, played a unique and significant role during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Launched on June 8, 1918, and commissioned into service in 1919, the Ramsay was initially designed as a destroyer but later converted into a fast minesweeper, designated as DM-16 in 1930. This conversion allowed the ship to take on new roles, particularly in mine warfare, which would become crucial during World War II.

Before its involvement in World War II, the USS Ramsay served in various capacities, including escort duties and training exercises along the U.S. East Coast and in the Caribbean. Its transformation into a fast minesweeper in 1930 marked a new chapter in its service life. As part of Mine Squadron 2, the USS Ramsay’s role was to ensure safe passage for the fleet by clearing mines, a task that required both precision and bravery.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, the USS Ramsay was stationed at Pearl Harbor, where it was caught in the midst of the Japanese surprise attack. Unlike the battleships that were prime targets, the USS Ramsay’s role was more defensive. As Japanese planes swarmed overhead, the Ramsay’s crew quickly manned their stations. The ship’s anti-aircraft guns were brought to bear against the attackers, contributing to the defensive efforts during the onslaught.

Despite the chaos, the USS Ramsay escaped the attack without significant damage. This allowed the ship to remain operational and continue its vital mission of mine clearance, which was increasingly important as the U.S. Navy began its counter-offensive in the Pacific. The Ramsay’s ability to stay afloat and functional during such a critical moment was a testament to the resilience and readiness of its crew.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the USS Ramsay continued to serve in the Pacific Theater, performing mine-sweeping duties that were critical to the success of numerous naval operations. The ship was involved in several key operations, including the invasion of the Marshall Islands in 1944, where it cleared mines ahead of the advancing fleet. Its efforts ensured that larger vessels could safely navigate treacherous waters, protecting them from the deadly threat of mines.
Throughout the war, the Ramsay earned three battle stars for its service, highlighting its contributions to the U.S. Navy’s efforts in the Pacific. The ship’s ability to adapt to different roles—from a destroyer to a minesweeper—demonstrated the versatility and importance of such vessels during the war.
The USS Ramsay was decommissioned on October 19, 1945, after a long and distinguished career. It was eventually sold for scrap in 1946, but its legacy lives on as part of the broader narrative of Pearl Harbor and World War II. The USS Ramsay’s service during the Pearl Harbor attack and throughout the Pacific campaign is a reminder of the many unsung heroes of the warships and crews that played crucial, if less glamorous, roles in ensuring victory.

The story of the USS Ramsay is a powerful example of the resilience and determination of the U.S. Navy during one of its darkest hours. It stands as a testament to the importance of every vessel and crew member in the collective effort to secure peace and protect freedom during World War II.