The USS Worden (DD-352) was a Farragut-class destroyer in the United States Navy during World War II, named for John Lorimer Worden, a U.S. Navy officer in the American Civil War. The ship was laid down on 29 December 1932 at the Puget Sound Navy Yard; launched on 27 October 1934; sponsored by Mrs. Katrina L. Halligan; and commissioned on 15 January 1935, with Commander Robert E. Kerr in command. The ship left Puget Sound on 1 April 1935 for its shakedown cruise, which brought her first to San Diego, California, and then down the coasts of Lower California and Mexico to Puerto San José, Guatemala, and Puntarenas, Costa Rica. The ship earned four battle stars for her World War II service. The US Navy was particularly interested in asbestos-containing materials because of the mineral's inherent characteristics, which enhanced their durability and reduced their danger of combustion. To ensure fire safety on board, the Navy mandated that asbestos be utilized not just in the vessel's infrastructure but also in a variety of kinds of equipment. This placed military troops at significant risk of developing potentially fatal diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, or mesothelioma in the future. Veterans who become ill as a result of asbestos exposure while serving are entitled for VA benefits, which include free healthcare.
760-621-6147
