USS Radford DD 446 - "The Kula Gulf Savior"

USS Radford was the 2nd destroyer of the Fletcher-class to be built and was named in honor of Rear Admiral William Radford, who commanded an Ironclad Division during the American Civil War. Radford is one of the most decorated ships to ever serve in the United States Navy. She saw action throughout the Pacific during World War II, as well as the Korean and Vietnam Wars, but her most well-known action was that of a savior to many US sailors that were treading water in Kula Gulf in July 1943. After USS Helena was sunk by Japanese torpedoes, Radford rescued 468 of her men, all while dealing with Japanese destroyers who kept trying to interfere with her efforts. In all, Radford earned a total of 21 Battle Stars and a Presidential Unit Citation for her service.
Credits (photos):
US National Archives, Navsource, Naval History & Heritage Command
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