USS Charles R. Ware (DD-865)

Charles Rollins Ware, born 11 March 1911 in Knoxville, Tenn., enlisted in the Navy 14 June 1929, and the following year was appointed to the Naval Academy. After graduation in 1934, he served in Texas (BB-35) and Dahlgren (DD-187) until February 1940 when he entered flight training at Pensacola. Serving with Scouting Squadron 5, based on Yorktown (CV-5), Lieutenant Ware was reported missing in action 4 June 1942 during the Battle of Midway. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism in pressing home his attack on the Japanese fleet in the face of fierce fighter opposition and formidable antiaircraft fire.

Charles R. Ware (DD-865) was launched 12 April 1945 by Bethlehem Steel Co., Staten Island, N.Y.; sponsored by Mrs. Z. Ware; and commissioned 21 July 1945, Commander H. R. Wier in command.

From her home ports at Norfolk, Va., and after December 1950, Newport, R.I., Charles R. Ware operated through 1960 on the demanding schedule of the Atlantic Fleet. Along with many deployments to the Mediterranean and northern Europe, she carried out the intensive training and overhaul necessary to keep her ready for any emergency as well as her usual activities. Her first major cruise, between 1 March and 9 April 1946, was to northern waters, where she aided in developing techniques for cold weather operations, crossing the Arctic Circle.

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From the Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, compiled by the Naval History and Heritage Command (Charles R. Ware (DD-865)). A work of the United States Government, in the public domain.