Destroyer Escort Day pays homage to the
Destroyer Escort sailors killed in World War II, Korea
and Vietnam and to the Destroyer Escorts lost in action.
The first Destroyer Escort Day was held at the Intrepid
Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City on June 16,
1990. The third Saturday in June is now recognized and
celebrated by the National Destroyer Escort Sailors
Association, Destroyer Escort Historical Museum and all
of the Destroyer Escort Sailors Association Chapters
nationwide. Each chapter prepares and conducts its own
program to honor the ships and crews. Governor George E.
Pataki's Proclamation naming the third Saturday of June
as Destroyer Escort Day was issued on Saturday, June 20,
1998.
On Saturday, June 17, 2006, DE
sailors across the nation were remembered and honored as
well as remembering those who have sailed their final
seas. Local DESA Chapters held ceremonies in their
areas at Punta Gorda, FL and aboard USS SLATER DE-766,
Albany, NY.
The
Garden State Chapter of New Jersey held a memorial
service at the USS SOLAR DE-221 Memorial at the Naval
Weapons Station Earle in Leonardo, NJ.
View Photos from this special DE Day event
Many State Governors
offer DE Day proclamations. One such Governor is
Jennifer M. Granholm of Michigan:
Destroyer Escort Day
2006
Whereas, During World War II, Destroyer Escorts were a
special class of fighting ships capable of performing an
impressive variety of duties even though they were
lightly armed and had little protection from enemy fire;
and,
Whereas, Destroyer Escorts were successful in completing
a wide range of combat assignments, including
anti-submarine duty, convoy escorts, shore bombardments,
and search and rescue missions; and,
Whereas, Today, the Destroyer Escorts are remembered for
being one of the most versatile and useful ships in
recent history; and,
Whereas, The citizens of Michigan have tremendous pride
in our servicemen and women who courageously served
aboard Destroyer Escorts during World War II, the Korean
War, and the Vietnam War; and now therefore be it,
Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the
State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 17, 2006, as
Destroyer Escort Day in Michigan and I encourage the
citizens of Michigan to reflect on the contributions of
Destroyer Escorts and the gallant bravery of those who
proudly served aboard these magnificent ships.
DESA hopes that each of you had a happy DE Day. We
salute you and remember those crewmembers lost in
service. Read the DE
Roll of Honor.
