HISTORY
USS Fletcher (DD/DDE-445), named for Admiral
Frank Friday Fletcher, was the lead Fletcher-class destroyer, and
served in the Pacific during World War II. She received fifteen
battle stars for World War II service, and five for Korean War
service.
Fletcher was laid down by the Federal Shipbuilding and Dry Dock
Company, Kearny, New Jersey, on 2 October 1941. She was launched on
3 May 1942; sponsored by Mrs. F. F. Fletcher, widow of Admiral
Fletcher; and commissioned on 30 June 1942, with Lieutenant
Commander William M. Cole in command.
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