USS Aaron Ward (DD-483)

Wrecks in the Ironbottom Sound

USS Aaron Ward (DD-483) was a Gleaves-class destroyer in the United States Navy during World War II. Named after Rear Admiral Aaron Ward, the ship served with distinction in several critical campaigns in the Pacific Theater.

Construction and Commissioning

The USS Aaron Ward (DD-483) was laid down on 11 February 1941 at the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company in Kearny, New Jersey. She was launched on 22 November 1941, sponsored by Miss Hilda Ward, the granddaughter of Rear Admiral Ward. The destroyer was commissioned on 4 March 1942, with Lieutenant Commander Orville F. Gregor in command.

Service History

Upon commissioning, USS Aaron Ward began a rigorous schedule of shakedown and training exercises along the Atlantic seaboard and in the Caribbean. By August 1942, she was ordered to the Pacific Theater to join the U.S. naval forces engaged in the Guadalcanal Campaign.

Guadalcanal Campaign

The Aaron Ward arrived in the Pacific in time to participate in several key engagements of the Guadalcanal Campaign. She provided naval gunfire support for the landings at Guadalcanal and later took part in the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands in October 1942. Her role in these engagements was crucial in securing American objectives and disrupting Japanese operations.

Solomon Islands Campaign

Following the Guadalcanal Campaign, the Aaron Ward continued to operate in the Solomon Islands area. She played a significant role in the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in November 1942, where she engaged Japanese naval forces in a fierce night battle. Despite sustaining damage, she contributed to the American victory that marked a turning point in the campaign.

Sinking

The USS Aaron Ward's service came to an abrupt end on 7 April 1943. While operating near Guadalcanal, she was attacked by Japanese aircraft. Despite a valiant defense, she was hit by several bombs and torpedoes, which caused severe damage. The crew fought to save the ship, but she eventually sank south of Tulagi. The majority of her crew were rescued by nearby American vessels.

Legacy

The USS Aaron Ward (DD-483) was awarded four battle stars for her service in World War II, reflecting her significant contributions to the success of American naval operations in the Pacific. Her valiant service and the sacrifice of her crew are remembered as exemplary of the courage and determination of the United States Navy during World War II.

See Also

• List of United States Navy destroyers
• Gleaves-class destroyer
• Naval Battle of Guadalcanal
• Guadalcanal Campaign