The USS Hudson (DD-475), a Fletcher-class destroyer, was launched on 3 June 1942 by the Boston Navy Yard; sponsored by Mrs. Henry H. Hough, wife of Admiral Henry H. Hough (Ret.); and commissioned on 13 April 1943, with Commander Richard R. Pratt in command. Following shakedown and escort duties along the Atlantic coast, the ship proceeded for Efate, New Hebrides, just in time to offer fire support for the first landings on Bougainville on November 1. The USS Hudson (DD-475)conducted anti-shipping sweeps in the Truk region and took part in operations against the Green Islands on 1 February 1944. On 31 January, on route to the invasion, the ship attacked and destroyed a Japanese submarine. The USS Hudson (DD-475) received nine battle stars for World War II service. The US Navy utilized around 300 asbestos-containing products from the 1930s through the 1980s. Prior to the 1980s, every Navy ship used a variety of asbestos-containing materials, placing sailors and shipbuilders at danger. Asbestos products were used in navigation rooms, sleeping quarters, mess halls, engine rooms, boiler rooms, pump rooms, and throughout the ships. Personnel who worked below deck were exposed to asbestos dust consistently.
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