The USS Roark (FF-1053), designated initially DE-1053, was a Knox-class frigate laid down in 1966, launched in 1967, and commissioned in 1969. The ship completed shakedown in 1970 and conducted training operations until the end of the year. She departed for her first deployment with the 7th Fleet in the Western Pacific in 1971. Due to a fire in her engine room, the vessel had to interrupt her deployment, but it was underway again after the damages had been amended. A year later, she was deployed for operations in Vietnam, continuing assignments in 1973. As of summer 1984, the ship was assigned to Destroyer Squadron Nine, fulfilling duty in the Westpac. The frigate transferred to the Naval Reserve in 1987 and was decommissioned in 1991. The USS Roark was disposed of by scrapping in 2004. The shipbuilding industry peaked in production and employment during World War II, as the demand for military vessels was high. Shipyards have been the site of widespread asbestos exposure, and asbestos-containing materials on Navy ships have caused crew members to face health hazards related to inhaling or ingesting asbestos dust. If you built, repaired, or served onboard the USS Roark (FF-1053), you may qualify to seek compensation for lost income, medical care, and pain and suffering.
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