Tracking the Fates of Your Father's Former US Navy Warships

After your father retired from active US Navy service, have you ever wondered what happened to the warships he once served on? You don't have to rely on Google to find answers to this question; all you need is a bit of research. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of discovering the fate of these vessels.

Discovering the Fate of Your Father's Ship

Search engines like Google can provide detailed information about a ship's final days. Here’s how:

Google Search: Simply type in the name of the ship followed by "USS" (United States Ship) to initiate a search. Websites like the US Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) offer comprehensive data on naval vessels. Wikipedia: Another powerful resource is the Wikipedia. For ships with detailed histories, the USS prefix is often used, which can lead you to articles that list the ship's decommissioning details or final disposition.

Understanding Decommissioning and Final Dispositions

Decommissioning is the process of removing a ship from active duty. The final dispositions of these ships vary, and there are several common outcomes:

Decommissioned: Ships that are decommissioned are no longer in active service but may still be preserved for various purposes, such as museums or reserve fleets. Removed from the Rolls: This means the ship is officially removed from the US Navy’s inventory and is no longer on the active list. Sold: Ships may be sold to other nations or for commercial use, such as conversion to civilian purposes or scrapping. Scrapped: Many older ships are recycled through the process of scrapping. This involves the ship being dismantled and its materials reused. SinkEx (Sink Exercise): In some cases, a ship is used in a controlled underwater explosion to test weapon systems. For example, the USS White Plains was expended in a SinkEx exercise and sunk southeast of Hawaii.

Tools and Resources for Further Research

To get even more detailed information, consider these resources:

NavSource: NavSource is a non-profit website that provides detailed information on US Navy ships, including many decommissioned vessels. US Naval History and Heritage Command: USNICHC maintains a vast collection of documentation and archives related to US naval history, offering much of the detailed information you might need. Ship Photos and Videos: Websites like YouTube and Google Images can provide visual references of ships in different stages of their service and decommissioning processes.

Why Do People Rely on Others to Research?

It’s understandable that people might rely on help rather than doing a bit of research themselves. However, a simple search can provide a wealth of information. Here are a few reasons why others might find searching challenging:

Lack of Internet Access: Some individuals may not have the necessary technology or access to the internet. Limited Research Skills: Not everyone is familiar with how to use search engines effectively or know to look for reputable sources like Wikipedia and official government websites. Boredom or Lack of Interest: Research can be time-consuming, and for some, it may seem like a less engaging way to spend their time compared to other activities.

Conclusion

With the right tools and a bit of effort, you can uncover the fascinating histories and final fates of your father's former US Navy warships. Whether you are a veteran, a historian, or a curious family member, these resources offer valuable insights into the lives of these ships and the bravery of those who served them.