US Navy Gun Destroyers 1945-88

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This illustrated history chronicles the Cold War careers of the US Navy's last gun destroyers, from the modernized Fletcher-class to the Forrest Sherman-class. The Fletcher-class, the largest destroyer class ever built with 175 ships, had surprisingly long careers into the Cold War, with many receiving post-World War II upgrades. Some were converted into ASW escorts, and one became the Navy's first guided missile destroyer. The Sumner-class also had a notable service life, with the last decommissioned in 1973. The Gearing class, a classic wartime destroyer, saw a second Cold War career, with many modified for various roles, including picket ships and ASW escorts. Ninety-five underwent extensive modernization under the Fleet Modernization and Rehabilitation program, allowing them to serve until 1980, with many later joining foreign navies. The Forrest Sherman class, commissioned in the 1950s, represented the last all-gun destroyers, considered the pinnacle of their design, with most modernized for ASW and antiair warfare. The lesser-known Norfolk class was built as a destroyer leader focused on ASW, but only two were modernized. Many ships, such as USS Edson, Cassin Young, and Turner Joy, are preserved as museum ships. This book uses artwork, illustrations, and photos to explore the careers and roles of these unsung Cold War stalwarts.