USS Laffey (DD-724) – The Ship That Would Not Die | Incredible Aerial Tour of a Heroic Destroyer
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Join us on a breathtaking aerial tour of the legendary USS Laffey (DD-724), a Sumner-class destroyer with a remarkable history that has earned it the nickname ‘The Ship That Would Not Die.’ From its courageous service in World War II to its heroic stand against kamikaze attacks, Laffey has become a symbol of resilience and bravery.
Commissioned in 1944, the USS Laffey was named after Seaman Bartlett Laffey, a Civil War Medal of Honor recipient. Laffey saw action during some of the fiercest battles of World War II, including the Normandy invasion, the assault on Iwo Jima, and the Okinawa campaign. It was during the Battle of Okinawa in April 1945 that Laffey earned its legendary status. In a relentless 80-minute attack, the ship faced 22 Japanese bombers and kamikaze planes, enduring multiple hits. Despite the devastation, Laffey refused to sink, and its crew’s determination allowed the ship to remain afloat.
Laffey was armed to the teeth to defend against air, surface, and submarine threats. During World War II, it was outfitted with:
– 6 x 5-inch/38 caliber guns
– 12 x 40 mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns
– 11 x 20 mm Oerlikon cannons
– 10 x 21-inch torpedo tubes for launching torpedoes
– 6 x depth charge projectors for anti-submarine warfare
The destroyer measured 376 feet (115 meters) in length with a beam of 40 feet (12 meters) and was powered by 60,000 horsepower steam turbines, allowing it to reach a top speed of 34 knots. The Laffey was designed for both offensive and defensive capabilities, with versatility in supporting amphibious landings, escorting larger vessels, and defending against aircraft and submarines.