USS Chester T. O'Brien (DE-421)

USS Chester T. O'Brien (DE-421)

USS Chester T. O’Brien (DE-421) was a John C. Butler-class destroyer escort acquired by the U.S. Navy during World War II. The primary purpose of the destroyer escort was to escort and protect ships in convoy, in addition to other tasks as assigned, such as patrol or radar picket.

Chester T. O'Brien (DE-421) was named in honor of Platoon Sergeant Chester Thomas O'Brien who was awarded the Silver Star medal for heroic service at Guadalcanal.

Chester T. O'Brien (DE-421) was launched 29 February 1944 by Brown Shipbuilding Co., Houston, Texas; sponsored by Mrs. J. Edington, sister of Platoon Sergeant O'Brien; commissioned 3 July 1944, Lieutenant Commander R. D. White, USNR, in command; and reported to the Atlantic fleet.