USS Childs: From Destroyer to Lifeline for Seaplanes! скачать в хорошем качестве

USS Childs: From Destroyer to Lifeline for Seaplanes!

The USS Childs had an incredible transformation, starting as a standard Clemson-class destroyer and ending her career as a vital seaplane tender in the Pacific. Launched in 1920, she initially served in Europe, patrolling the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Baltic Seas. She also played a role in relief missions to Russia before returning to the U.S. in 1922. For over a decade, she participated in fleet training operations along the East Coast and Pacific, keeping the Navy combat-ready. After an accidental collision with a schooner off North Carolina, she was reassigned, eventually being converted into a seaplane tender in 1938. During WWII, Childs was stationed in the Pacific, supporting patrol bombers at Midway, Wake Island, and Guam. She was in the Philippines when Japan attacked and narrowly escaped destruction, later relocating to Australia. From there, she supported reconnaissance and bombing missions, playing a crucial role in tracking enemy movements. Returning to the U.S. in 1944, she was decommissioned after the war and scrapped in 1946. She earned one battle star, proving her adaptability and importance in naval operations. Discover her fascinating journey from destroyer to guardian of the skies! ✈️⚓ #USSChilds #WWIISeaplanes #NavalHistory