The U.S. Navy will commission Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer, McCampbell on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2002, during a ceremony in San Francisco at Pier 30. The ship honors the late Navy Capt. David McCampbell (1910-1996). serving as commander, Air Group 15, the USS Essex, during the Battle of the Philippine Sea (June 19, 1944) and the Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 24, 1944). down seven. In the Battle of Leyte Gulf, he daringly attacked a formation of at least 60 Japanese land-based aircraft. McCampbell shot down at least nine of these aircraft, forcing the remainder to abandon the attack. In addition to the Medal of Honor, McCampbell received the Navy Cross, Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross. No previous ship has been named McCampbell. Dionel M.