USS Mugford (DD-389)

Capt. John Mugford commanded schooner Franklin in the Continental Navy, serving through 1775 in Manley's squadron off Boston. He captured British ship Hope with a large cargo of military stores and powder, and took his prize into Boston, running under the noses of the British fleet lying in the outer harbor. Franklin was attacked at night, however, and Capt. Mugford was killed in the ensuing action.

The second Mugford (DD-389) was laid down on 28 October 1935 by the Boston Navy Yard; launched on 31 October 1936; sponsored by Miss Madeline Orne, great-great-grand-niece of Capt. Mugford; and commissioned on 16 August 1937, in command.

Joining the Pacific Fleet in late 1937, Mugford conducted local operations along the West Coast and around the Hawaiian Islands, taking time out for periodic overhauls and upkeep. Growing tensions in the Far East led to her shift to Pearl Harbor and she operated with the Pacific Fleet there. In late 1940 all four of her gun crews won the warship the coveted "E" for a perfect score during short range battle practice. During this period the destroyer also received an upgrade to her anti-aircraft guns, having one twin 40mm gun mount, six 20mm gun mounts and associated directors installed.

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From the Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, compiled by the Naval History and Heritage Command (Mugford II (DD-389)). A work of the United States Government, in the public domain.