WASHINGTON — Sailors, veterans, family members and Naval Support Activity Washington staff gathered in the Cold War Gallery at the Washington Navy Yard to bid farewell to Display Ship Barry (DD933), Oct. 17.
Naval Support Activity Washington hosted the departure ceremony, honoring the ship and its past crew members. The event served as the final send-off before the ship is towed down the Anacostia River for dismantling.
Retired Rear Adm. Sam Cox, director of Naval History and Heritage Command spoke.
"It's a sad day to see the Barry go but I'm glad to be able to thank those in attendance today that served on the Barry," said Cox. "She was not just a ship made of metal but she represents a legacy of valor and sacrifice of those who served."
More than 20 former Barry crew members attended the ceremony.
Retired Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class John Horgan served on the Barry in the early 1980s and flew in from Colorado to make the ceremony.
"When I heard the ship was being scrapped I was very emotional," said Horgan. "I grew up on that ship. I came aboard 19 years old and left a man so I had to make it here today."
Councilman Charles Allen, D.C. Council Ward 6 spoke about effect of the ship and its symbolism.
"Barry was a part of the neighborhood," said Ward. "Veterans traveled from near and far to visit the ship. She was a reminder of the sacrifices and triumphs of the Navy."
USS Barry was the third Forrest Sherman-class destroyer built and the fourth vessel to bear the name of the illustrious Revolutionary War naval hero Commodore John Barry. She was commissioned Sept. 7, 1956 and served in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets. USS Barry was decommissioned Nov. 5, 1982 after 26 years of service. Barry began its new career as the Washington Navy Yard display ship in 1983 where it was open for public tours, training, shipboard familiarization and as a ceremonial platform.
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