Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships
Aaron Ward DD-483
The second Aaron Ward (DD-483) was launched 22 November 1941 by Federal
Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Co, Kearny, N. J.: sponsored by Miss Hilda Ward,
daughter of Admiral Ward, and commissioned 4 March 1942, Commander O. F.
Gregor in command.
Aaron Ward sailed for the Pacific 20 May 1942. After several escort missions
she joined the covering force at Guadalcanal, 17 October 1942. During the
Naval Battle of Guadalcanal, 13 November 1942, she performed gallantly, and
took nine hits killing 15 of her crew and wounding 55 Using saltwater feed
she cleared the area until taken in tow for Tulagi, the next morning, by
Bobolink (AT-131). She entered Pearl Harbor 20 December for repairs and on 6
February 1943 rejoined the fleet.
On 7 April 1943 while covering LST -449 off Togoma Point, Guadalcanal, Aaron.
Ward was attacked by six planes which scored one hit and four "near miss",
sinking her after she had scored hits on three of the planes. Casualties
were 27 men killed or missing and 59 wounded.
Aaron Ward received three battle stars for her service in the Pacific.