The USS Gatling (DD-671), a Fletcher-class destroyer of the United States Navy, was laid down 3 March 1943 by the Federal Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, Kearny, New Jersey; launched on 20 June 1943; sponsored by Mrs. John W. Gatling, wife of the inventor's grandson; and commissioned on 19 August 1943 at New York Navy Yard, with Lieutenant Commander Alvin H. Richardson in command. After shakedown out of Bermuda and alteration at New York early November, the ship called at Norfolk, Virginia, to conduct training cruises for crews of destroyers still under construction. On 19 November 1943, the USS Gatling (DD-671) proceeded to Trinidad, British West Indies, to escort the USS Langley (CV-1) to Norfolk. It received eight battle stars for World War II service and one battle star for Korean War service. Exposure to asbestos increases someone's risk of developing a serious illness that necessitates expensive medical care, as well as causing pain and suffering. Between World War II and the late-1970s, ships and submarines were covered with asbestos from bow to stern due to its fireproofing qualities. More than 300 asbestos-containing products were commonly found on those ships.
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