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US Navy Gun Destroyers 1945–88: Fletcher class to Forrest Sherman class (New Vanguard, 322)

Name: US Navy Gun Destroyers 1945–88: Fletcher class to Forrest Sherman class (New Vanguard, 322)
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4.7 of 5 Stars: Transportation - US Navy Gun Destroyers 1945–88: Fletcher class to Forrest Sherman class (New Vanguard, 322)

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Book Synopsis: An illustrated history of the long Cold War careers of the US Navy's last gun destroyers, from the modernized World War II-era Fletcher-class to the Forrest Sherman-class. The finest American destroyers of World War II had surprisingly long careers into the Cold War and the missile age. The 175-strong Fletcher-class was the largest class of US Navy destroyers ever built, and most received some modernization after World War II. A handful were converted into ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) escorts and one was even converted into the US Navy's first guided missile destroyer. Many Sumner-class destroyers were also kept in service, with the last decommissioned in 1973. The Gearing class was the classic US Navy wartime destroyer to have a second Cold War career, some being modified into picket ships and others into ASW escorts. Ninety-five were extensively modernized under the Fleet Modernization and Rehabilitation (FRAM) program which allowed them to serve until 1980. The majority of these ships then saw service with foreign navies. However the story of Cold War gun destroyers is not just one of World War II relics. Commissioned in the 1950s, the 18 ships of the Forrest Sherman class were the US Navy's last all-gun destroyers, and were considered to be the pinnacle of US Navy gun-destroyer design. Later in their careers, most were modernized for ASW and antiair warfare. The virtually unknown Norfolk class was originally built as a destroyer leader and maximized for ASW but only two were modernized and the other three retired early. Many of these ships, such as USS Edson, Cassin Young, and Turner Joy, still survive as museum ships today.Using battlescene artwork, detailed illustrations and photos, this book explores the careers, modernizations, and roles of all these unsung Cold War stalwarts, the last gun destroyers of the US Navy.

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Looking to delve into the rich naval history of the United States? Look no further than "US Navy Gun Destroyers 1945–88: Fletcher class to Forrest Sherman class." This captivating book presents an illustrated history of the US Navy's last gun destroyers, showcasing their remarkable careers throughout the lengthy Cold War era. From the modernized World War II-era Fletcher-class to the pinnacle of design found in the Forrest Sherman-class, these destroyers played a crucial role in shaping naval warfare.

With over 175 Fletcher-class destroyers built, this book unveils the stories behind these immense vessels, many of which underwent modernization after World War II. From Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) escorts to guided missile destroyers, these ships represent the epitome of American naval engineering. The Sumner-class destroyers and Gearing class destroyers also had their moment in the spotlight, maintaining active service through the Cold War with extensive modernizations.

What sets this book apart is its unique focus on the lesser-known ships of the era. Discover the eighteen Forrest Sherman-class destroyers, which were recognized as the last all-gun destroyers of the US Navy. These vessels, designed with precision and efficiency, were later modernized for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and antiair warfare. While the Norfolk-class destroyer leaders may be relatively obscure, their impact shouldn't be underestimated. Only two were modernized, making them a rarity in naval history.

Step into the pages of "US Navy Gun Destroyers 1945–88" and immerse yourself in the battlescene artwork, detailed illustrations, and captivating photographs that breathe life into these unsung heroes. Learn about the careers, modernizations, and roles of these legendary destroyers, some of which can still be visited today as museum ships. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the last gun destroyers of the US Navy!

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