The USS The Sullivans: Honor to the Sullivans Five Brothers

One of the most renowned and storied war vessels in the history of the United States Navy, the USS The Sullivans, is named after the Sullivans five brothers, who unfortunately lost their lives when their ship, the USS Juneau, was sunk in November 1942 during World War II. This destroyer, part of the Fletcher Class, remains one of only four such ships still afloat, a testament to its service and the enduring sacrifice of the Sullivan family.

The Tragic Loss of the USS Juneau

The story of the USS The Sullivans begins with the ill-fated USS Juneau. In November 1942, off the Solomon Islands, the USS Juneau was struck by a Japanese torpedo, leading to her sinking and the subsequent loss of five brothers from the Sullivan family: George, Francis, Joseph, Albert, and Patrick. This tragic event, which became known as the USS Juneau Incident, captured the nation's attention and led to a multitude of memorials and tributes.

The Honor of the USS The Sullivans

A committee of family members, navy officials, and other concerned citizens petitioned for a ship to be named in honor of the Sullivan brothers. Following two separate requests, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an order authorizing the construction of the ship in 1942. The USS The Sullivans was built at the Newport News Shipbuilding Dry Dock Company in Newport News, Virginia.

The Ship's Service and Legacy

The ship played a significant role in several major battles of WWII, including the Battle of Guadalcanal. The USS The Sullivans participated in numerous armed engagements and provided crucial support during the Pacific theater. Sadly, the ship was sunk in 1945, but her legacy lives on.

The Current State of the USS The Sullivans

Today, the USS The Sullivans is permanently moored at Pier 6 in Buffalo, New York. She has undergone extensive restoration efforts and stands as a significant naval museum. Visitors can explore the ship and learn about her rich history, as well as the lives of the Sullivan brothers. The ship does not currently float due to the challenges of maintaining such an old vessel, but she remains an active part of the Navy Memorial's collection.

Preserving the Memory

The USS The Sullivans has become a symbol of sacrifice, service, and family. The ship is visited by thousands of people each year, many of whom are descendents of the Sullivan brothers or those with a connection to the Marine. Several exhibits and displays throughout the ship provide insight into the brutal realities of naval warfare, as well as the personal belongings of the Sullivan brothers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the USS The Sullivans serves as a fitting tribute to the Sullivan brothers and all those who have served in the United States Navy. Its current state as a memorial and museum ensures that the tales of valor and sacrifice associated with the USS The Sullivans will not be forgotten.

Related Keywords

USS The Sullivans, Fletcher Class Destroyer, World War II, Navy Memorial