Navy Escort Ships
An escort ship was classified as any vessel that operated as a guide or companion ship for convoys of U.S. Naval ships during World War II. One such ship, the USS Huse, assisted in the sinking of enemy ships and earned five battle stars for her WWII service.
WWII escort ships were outfitted with a variety of technologically advanced (for the time period) implements, including radar, which allowed them to spot other ships, aircraft, and the emerging periscopes of submarines. In addition to escorting ships, these vessels also protect amphibious forces as they were landing on hostile beaches and joined “hunter-killer” forces that searched for and attacked enemy subs. In fact, U.S. escort ships were recognized for sinking 118 total enemy submarines.
The men who served aboard the escort ships below during World War II were presented with an unlimited number of hazards, including that of asbestos exposure. Asbestos was used in the form of insulation, which lined the extensive piping found on ships built during that time period. Asbestos exposure causes a range of ailments, including the deadly cancer mesothelioma, and all veterans who served aboard Navy ships in the forties should monitor their respiratory health very closely.
Escort Ship Listing
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
