The USS Kidd (DD-661), a Fletcher-class destroyer, was the first ship of the United States Navy to be named after Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, who died on the bridge of his flagship USS Arizona during the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The ship was launched on 28 February 1943 by Federal Shipbuilding & Drydock Co., Kearny, New Jersey, sponsored by Mrs. Isaac C. Kidd, widow of Rear Admiral Kidd, and commissioned on 23 April 1943, Commander Allan Roby in command. During its initial cruise to the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards, the ship sailed across New York Harbor with the Jolly Roger flying from the foremast. Due to previously placed asbestos insulation in the vessels, thousands of servicemen would develop terrible diseases from exposure to this mineral. The US Navy used asbestos for insulation because of its ‘safety features’ such as being fire retardant and resisting corrosion. It was a way to preserve the vessel, therefore, it was used in such staggering quantities. If you believe you were exposed to asbestos while serving aboard the USS Kidd (DD-661), please call us today and we can put you in touch with the lawyers that have the experience you need to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
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