USS Hopewell (DD-681) A general purpose destroyer of the Fletcher class built by Bethlehem Steel at San Pedro, Calif. The ship honors Midshipman Pollard Hopewell who died in action during the War of 1812. USS Hopewell was commissioned on September 30, 1943
The Coat of Arms of the USS Hopewelll - DD-681 The downward arcs represent Sonar sound waves
A popular designation and patch during the early Vietnam Conflict times for those on navy ships and boats. References the incident in the Tonkin Gulf that got President Johnson to greatly escalate the US participation.
Hopewell coming alongside the USS Columbus CG-12 in 1964
Hopewell in rough seas "bow up" -- this is followed by a rapid downward movement making those forward inside feel like they are riding a free-falling elevator
Arriving home to the 22nd Street Naval Station, San Diego after a deployment of probably 6-9 months in 1969, I believe. Greeters on the dock are friends and family
Hopewell firing a broadside with its 5"-38 guns
Hopewell turning sharply -- probably part of some refresher training or shake down out of a yard period
Hopewelll -- probably betwee WWII and Korea War -- note old style balsa life rafts and midship topedo tubes
Hopewell crew firing all 5"-38 guns -- part of a training exercise and "show off" for dignitaries of some kind. Most likely off Southern California
Hopewell making good speed in moderate seas
After late 1950 modernization -- I think this was after the plane crash that accelerate the need for superstructure changes.
Hopewell entering San Diego Bay -- Point Loma in the background - circa 1952
Hopewell at anchor in 1945 after overhaul
Hopewell coming alongside USS Yorktown CVA-64
Hopewell getting a saltwater wash-down
Hopewell was scuttled as a target ship. This is a picture of a different but similar ship that was also scraped as a target ship for the same kind of guided missle ("Walleye" II - 2,000 pound bomb warhead) test as was Hopewell. Looks like a nasty way to go!!
