USS Parsons (DD-949/DDG-33) began her career as a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer of the United States Navy. She was named in honor of Rear Admiral William S. Parsons (1901–1953), who worked on the Manhattan Project during World War II.
USS Parsons
USS Parsons (DD-949), circa 1961.
Forrest Sherman-class destroyer
The 18 Forrest Sherman-class destroyers comprised the first post-war class of US destroyers. Commissioned beginning in 1955, these ships served until the late 1980s. Their weaponry underwent considerable modification during their years of service. Four were converted to guided-missile destroyers. This class also served as the basis for the Charles F. Adams-class guided-missile destroyers.
USS Barry on 16 October 1983
USS Decatur (DDG-31) after conversion to a guided-missile destroyer with one of the aft gun mounts replaced with a Mk 13 missile launcher.
USS Barry (DD-933) with aft gun mount removed and replaced with an ASROC launcher.