USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr.

The USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (DD-850), a Gearing-class destroyer, stands as a proud testament to American naval history at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts. This historic vessel, named in honor of Lieutenant Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., a heroic naval aviator and the eldest brother of President John F. Kennedy, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and operations of a mid-20th century warship.

The Early Years: 1945-1950

Launched on July 26, 1945, from the Bethlehem Steel Corporation's Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts, and commissioned later that year on December 15, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. embarked on its maiden voyage for shakedown training in the Caribbean. Notably, Robert F. Kennedy, then a young apprentice seaman, sailed on this initial cruise. The destroyer’s early years were marked by a series of training exercises and voyages, including a significant cruise to Chile and Venezuela, where it was reviewed by the President of Venezuela.

During the late 1940s, the ship operated along the East Coast and the Caribbean, participating in fleet maneuvers and antisubmarine warfare exercises. It also served as the flagship of Destroyer Squadron 18 during its deployment with the 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean, contributing to peacekeeping efforts during a period of post-World War II unrest in Europe.

A Global Presence: 1950-1960

With the outbreak of the Korean War, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. was quickly mobilized, departing for Japan in January 1951. The destroyer played a crucial role in various operations, including screening attack carriers and supporting the Allied siege and occupation of harbor islands off Wonsan, Korea. After its combat duties, the ship continued its journey, circumnavigating the globe and visiting ports such as Singapore, Bahrain, Naples, and Gibraltar before returning to Newport, Rhode Island.

Throughout the 1950s, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. remained active, conducting training exercises, serving as a school ship, and participating in NATO joint maneuvers. The ship also played a role in the training of midshipmen from the United States Naval Academy and represented the Navy at significant events, such as the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959.

Iconic Moments: 1961-1964

The early 1960s saw the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. involved in several notable events. In January 1961, the destroyer steamed to Washington, D.C., for the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy. Later that year, it participated in Project Mercury space shots and underwent a Fleet Rehabilitation and Modernization (FRAM) overhaul, receiving the latest in antisubmarine gear and a new helicopter flight deck.

One of the ship’s most significant contributions came during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962. As part of the naval blockade, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. played a pivotal role in enforcing President Kennedy's quarantine order, including the boarding of the Lebanese Liberty ship Marucla. This action was instrumental in easing the tensions of the crisis.

Continued Service: 1965-1967

In the mid-1960s, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. continued to serve with distinction. It assisted in the qualification of newly constructed Polaris submarines and participated in the recovery operations for the Gemini 6 and Gemini 7 space missions. The destroyer also undertook another deployment with the 6th Fleet in the Mediterranean, conducting antisubmarine warfare and air defense operations.

In 1967, the ship embarked on a significant voyage, transiting the Suez Canal to the Red Sea and Indian Ocean before returning to Newport via the Cape of Good Hope and South America. This journey marked the end of an era for the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., which continued to conduct readiness training and exercises until its decommissioning in 1973.

A Living Museum: Battleship Cove

Today, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. is preserved as a museum ship at Battleship Cove, offering visitors an immersive experience into its storied past. As you walk the decks of this historic vessel, you can explore various exhibits that showcase its contributions to naval history, from its early years of training and global deployments to its pivotal role during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

One of the highlights of a visit to the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. is the opportunity to see the ship’s advanced antisubmarine warfare equipment and the helicopter flight deck added during its FRAM overhaul. The museum also features displays related to the ship’s involvement in space recovery missions and its participation in significant naval operations around the world.

In addition to its historical significance, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. serves as a tribute to the bravery and dedication of the men who served aboard her. The ship’s connection to the Kennedy family adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

In conclusion, the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. at Battleship Cove is more than just a museum ship; it is a living monument to the resilience and valor of the United States Navy. Its storied past and continued preservation offer visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the legacy of this remarkable destroyer.