USS Trippe (DD-403)

USS Trippe (DD-403)

USS Trippe (DD-403) was a Sims-class destroyer of the United States Navy. The Sims class was the last pre-war destroyer class completed before the Fletcher class transformed the U.S. Navy's destroyer force. Displacing 1,764 tons, the Sims class carried five 5-inch guns and eight torpedo tubes. Twelve were built, and they served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.

Named for Captain John Trippe, who served during the Barbary Wars and led a daring boarding action against a Tripolitan corsair during the Battle of Tripoli Harbor in 1804, USS Trippe was built by Boston Navy Yard, Charlestown, Massachusetts and commissioned in November 1939. Served exclusively in the Atlantic and Mediterranean theaters. Participated in nearly every major European amphibious operation: Operation Torch in North Africa, the invasions of Sicily and Salerno, the landings at Anzio, D-Day at Normandy, and Operation Dragoon in Southern France. One of the most active Atlantic-theater destroyers of the war.

USS Trippe earned 6 battle stars for service in: Atlantic convoy escort, Operation Torch, Sicily, Salerno, Anzio, Normandy, Southern France. Decommissioned November 1945. Sold for scrap February 1947.

This collection features apparel and merchandise honoring USS Trippe (DD-403) and the men who served aboard her. 1,764 tons standard displacement. 348 feet in length. Five 5"/38 caliber dual-purpose guns. Eight 21-inch torpedo tubes in two quadruple mounts. Top speed 37 knots. Crew of 192.