USS The Sullivans

This Fletcher-class warship spans 376 feet (115 meters) and carries four 5-inch guns, twin-mounted 40-millimeter cannons, and radar equipment installed for submarine detection and surface combat operations during active service.

Commissioned in April 1943, the destroyer served in Pacific campaigns including Leyte Gulf and Okinawa, supported Korean War operations from 1950 to 1953, maintained readiness during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, then retired in 1965 before becoming a museum in 1977.

Named after five Sullivan brothers who died together when USS Juneau sank in 1942, this destroyer became the first naval vessel honoring multiple family members from one household.

Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM at Buffalo Naval Park, the museum provides self-guided access through crew quarters, engine room, bridge, and weapon systems with interpretive signage explaining operational functions throughout multiple deck levels.

In April 2022, the vessel suffered a major hull breach causing partial sinking at its mooring, but emergency response teams stabilized and refloated the ship, completing repairs within four months to restore public access by August with reinforced structural integrity.

Location: Buffalo

GPS coordinates: 42.87770,-78.88060

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:02