Name/Title
USS BEBAS (DE-10) assisting the damaged SS JOHN H. COUCHEntry/Object ID
2003.3.1Description
Photograph of USS BEBAS assisting the torpedoed SS JOHN H. COUCH. The description reads:
"October 11, 1943 The USS Bebas DE 10 while patrolling an anti-submarine sector off of Lunga and Koli Points in Guadalcanal went to General Quarters at 0149 to investigate a "fire explosion at sea." A low flying Japanese aircraft torpedo had hit the Liberty ship John H. Couch during a nocturnal raid. The destroyer escort then determined the fire was aboard the ship and reduced speed to draw closer, standing down from battle stations to lend a hand. Going alongside at 0600, Bebas sent her fire and rescue party to fight gasoline fires raging in John H. Couch's holds two and three, but the flames had apparently gained the upper hand. Recovering her men, the Bebas backed away and shelled the merchantman's number two and three hold in an attempt to stop the fire and sink the John H. Couch. Donated by Thomas S. Boselli Coxswain, 1st Div. USS Bebas, DE 10"Collection
USS Bebas DE 10