This Day in Naval History - May 17

From the Navy News Service:

 

• 1940 - FDR announces plans to recommission 35 more destroyers.
  
• 1942 - USS Tautog (SS 199) sinks Japanese sub, I-28; while USS Triton (SS 201) sinks I-164.
  
• 1951 - Aircraft from carriers attack bridges between Wonsan and Hamhung, Korea.
  
• 1962 - Naval amphibious ready group lands Marines to guard Thailand's borders from Communist probes.
  
• 1966 - Naval Support Activity Saigon established.
  
• 1973 - First woman to hold a major Navy command, Capt. Robin Lindsay Quigley assumes command of Navy Service School, San Diego.
  
• 1987 - USS Stark (FFG 31) struck by Iraqi Exocet missile in Persian Gulf, killing 37 Sailors; 21 were wounded.
  
• 1990 - USS Roark (FF 1053) rescues 42 refugees from unseaworthy craft in South China Sea.

 

For more information about naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at http://www.history.navy.mil.