USS Cassin Young

Anchored here in Boston, the USS Cassin Young whispers tales of heroism and resilience. The USS Cassin Young, a Fletcher-class destroyer, stands as a poignant reminder of World War II’s Pacific theater. She’s named after Captain Cassin Young, a Medal of Honor recipient for his bravery at Pearl Harbor, who later fell during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal. Launched in 1943 by Bethlehem Steel in California, the USS Cassin Young was sponsored by Captain Young’s wife, Eleanor. Commissioned on New Year’s Eve, 1943, under Commander E.T. Schrieber, the vessel embarked on a journey into the heart of conflict. The USS Cassin Young wasn’t just a ship; she was a floating fortress, a symbol of American might. This mighty destroyer plunged into the tumultuous waters of the Pacific, engaging in fierce battles, including Leyte Gulf and Okinawa. At Leyte Gulf, amidst the chaos, the USS Cassin Young rescued over 120 sailors from the sinking USS Princeton. She bravely faced the terrifying kamikaze attacks at Okinawa, enduring two direct hits. One kamikaze exploded just 50 feet above the deck on April 12, 1945, resulting in one death and 59 wounded. A second, more devastating kamikaze attack on July 29th claimed 22 lives and wounded 45 more. This attack made the USS Cassin Young the last ship to be hit by a kamikaze near Okinawa. The ship, however, refused to surrender. Within 20 minutes of the devastating blow, the resilient crew restored power and steered the ship towards safety. For their unwavering courage, the USS Cassin Young and her crew received the Navy Unit Commendation. The USS Cassin Young’s story continued beyond World War II. She was called back to service during the Korean War, showcasing her enduring strength and adaptability. The Boston Naval Shipyard became a familiar haven for the aging destroyer, undergoing several overhauls throughout the 1950s. She even earned a Battle Efficiency “E” award in 1959, proving that despite her age, she remained a formidable force. Finally, in 1960, her active service ended. Today, the USS Cassin Young rests here, not as a relic of war, but as a living museum. She stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the men who served aboard her, and the countless shipyard workers who built and maintained her. She invites us to step aboard, to feel the steel beneath our feet, to imagine the roar of the guns, and to hear the echoes of the past. She is a symbol of resilience, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, courage prevails.