Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

Sailors onboard USS STOCKDALE (DDG 106) paused on Saturday afternoon to remember and pay homage to their predecessors who sacrificed their lives in the Battle off Samar over 65 years ago.  The Battle off Samar was the center of action during the Battle of Leyte Gulf against the Japanese in WWII – one of the largest battles in navy history.  The ceremony included a reading of the history of the Battle off Samar and a 21 gun salute.  All were reminded of the unwavering courage of the Sailors who faced and overcame tremendous odds to confuse and disorganize  Japanese naval forces in one of the major turning points in the Battle of the Pacific during WWII.  Commemorating fellow Destroyer Sailors in the same waters where they fought and gave their lives brought a renewed sense of heritage for STOCKDALE Sailors, and further validated the privilege of following in the wake of a long line of Sailors who have selflessly committed their lives to their country.