James Kyes (DD 787) - Naval Cruise Book

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USS JAMES E. KYES. built by Todd Pacific Shipyard of Seattle. Washington, launched there on l August 1945, commissioned on 8 February 194H, was named for Commander .lames Ellsworth Kyes, USN, who received the Navy Cross with the following citation : For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the USS 1,1 .. K ' during action against a con- centrated force of hostile enemy submarines in the North .Atlantic. .As Commander Kyes boldly maneuvered to close range on foiu ' of the hostile pack, the enemy struck, mortally wounding the LEARY with three torpedo hits and causing her to start sinking rapidly. After giving the order to abandon ship. Commander Kyes cooly and courageously made a personal inspection in order to assure himself that none of his men remained aboard. Pre|)aring to abandon shi|) and observing one of his crew whose lite jacket was torn and Liseles , Conun.uider KYES gallantly removed his own, gave it to the man and calmly wui over the side. Ili heroic conduct and fearless spirit of self-sacrifice in a time of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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We dedicate this Cruise Book to the family of the late Commander James E. Kyes for whom the ship was named. Mrs. Kyes and family visited the ship during its stay in Seattle, Washington, last year. From left to right are David M. Kyes, son of the late Commander ; Mrs. David M. Kyes ; Mrs. James E. Kyes, widow of Commander Kyes ; Commander G. D. Quinn, Jr., Commanding OfHcer of the KYES ; and Roy Boundreau, a friend of the Kyes family.

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During her third West-Pac cruise the Korean Police Action broke out and the ship was immediately ordered to Korean waters where she operated with Task Force 77. Further deployments to Korean waters during the conflict had the KYES operating with fast carrier task forces, anti-submarine forces, and blockading the coast of Korea. After the cease fire in Korea, the KYES returned to Long Beach, her home port since August, 1952. On 16 April 1962, the KYES assumed an In commission on reserve status and commenced a Mark I FRAM. The appearance of the ship, from the main deck up, was completely altered. She was outfitted with ASROC (Anti-Submarine Rocket) and DASH (Drone Anti-Submarine Helocopter) thus giving her long range ASW capability. She completed FRAM on 18 January 1963. On 28 April 1963, the KYES became the flagship of the renowned DESRON 23. The Little Beavers. Thus brings us to our 13th voyage across the Realm of the Golden Dragon, and into the magic land of the Far East. Although hearts yearn for the loved ones back home, part at least of the loneliness is lost to these enchanting lands.