USS Bache (DD:DDE-470)

• Fletcher-class Destroyer: USS Bache (DD/DDE-470) was a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the largest and most successful classes of destroyers used by the US Navy during World War II. • Named After Admiral George M. Bache: The ship was named in honor of Rear Admiral George M. Bache, a distinguished naval officer who served in the American Civil War. • Commissioned in 1942: USS Bache was launched on 7 July 1942 and commissioned on 14 November 1942, joining the Pacific Fleet during a crucial phase of World War II. • Guadalcanal Campaign: Bache participated in the Solomon Islands Campaign, supporting landings and conducting anti-submarine and anti-aircraft operations around Guadalcanal. • Battle of Empress Augusta Bay: On 1–2 November 1943, Bache took part in the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay, a pivotal night naval engagement that helped secure Allied control over Bougainville Island. • Kamikaze Attack at Okinawa: On 13 May 1945, while on radar picket duty off Okinawa, Bache was struck by a kamikaze aircraft, resulting in significant damage and casualties, but her crew managed to keep her afloat. • Reclassified as DDE-470: After World War II, Bache was modernized and reclassified as a destroyer escort (DDE-470) in 1951, reflecting her new role in anti-submarine warfare during the Cold War. • Suez Crisis Deployment: In 1956, Bache was deployed to the eastern Mediterranean during the Suez Crisis, helping to evacuate American citizens and support peacekeeping operations. • Wrecked at Rhodes: On 6 February 1968, while anchored off Rhodes, Greece, a fierce storm drove Bache aground, breaking her hull. Salvage was deemed impossible, and she was decommissioned and scrapped in place. • Battle Stars: USS Bache earned 10 battle stars for her World War II service, highlighting her extensive and distinguished combat record in the Pacific Theater.