John McGuckin presents Fletcher Class Destroyers: Racehorses of WWII

The Fletcher-class destroyer combined speed, ruggedness, ease of construction, and a deadly weapons suite to be the ideal vessel for antisubmarine battles, anti-air protection, surface engagements, and gunfire support during World War II. Design on the class began in 1939, with the first vessels starting construction in 1941. Eleven shipyards built 175 destroyers between 1941 and 1945. Join us for short battle histories of these ships, their crews, and learn about the development, construction, and engineering of the class.

Lunchbox Lectures are free and open to the public on every first and third Wednesday of the month. For more information call 504-528-1944 x 463.

NOTICE: Andrew Higgins Drive is temporarily closed to vehicles and pedestrians between Camp Street and Magazine Street for the construction of a new Founders Plaza at The National WWII Museum. The Museum’s main entrance for the duration of construction is at 945 Magazine Street.