USS Henderson (DD-785)

• Fletcher-Class Destroyer: USS Henderson (DD-785) was actually an Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, not a Fletcher-class, and was named after Marine Colonel Archibald Henderson, the longest-serving Commandant of the Marine Corps. • Commissioning Date: She was commissioned on 4 August 1945, just days before the end of World War II, and thus did not see service during that conflict. • Korean War Service: Henderson saw extensive combat duty during the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support, screening aircraft carriers, and conducting anti-submarine patrols. • Rescue Operations: The ship was involved in several daring pilot rescues off the coast of Korea, saving downed aviators under heavy enemy fire. • Vietnam War Deployments: USS Henderson served multiple tours off Vietnam, supporting carrier operations, coastal bombardments, and search and rescue missions. • FRAM Modernization: In 1962, Henderson underwent the Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) program, upgrading her anti-submarine capabilities with modern sonar, torpedo launchers, and ASROC. • “Grey Ghost of the Korean Coast”: She earned the nickname for her frequent and effective night operations during the Korean War. • Notable Commanding Officer: Future Admiral William J. Crowe, who later became Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, served aboard Henderson as a young officer. • Transfer to Pakistan: In 1980, the ship was transferred to the Pakistan Navy and renamed PNS Tughril (D165), where she served until 2001. • Awarded Honors: During her service, USS Henderson earned two battle stars for Korean War service and five for Vietnam War service, acknowledging her long and active combat history.