That is a great picture of USS Rockford.
I really enjoy the visual of warships in measure 21/22 camo.
BU Ships really packed alot of ordinance into those little Patrol Frigates.
Was reading about USS Tacoma in seaclassics...she was sent to the Aluetians too in late 44.
The Destroyer squadron our family's can serving in was withdrawn from the Aluetians in Aug 44.
Have not come accross any documentation..but it seems Cincpac arranged for Tin cans to be released when the PF's were available.
Aluetians was rough...DD-520 had her sonar dome torn off..other cans suffered hull plate buckling from heavy seas.
Still..the little PF's would have lots to do up Dutch Harbor and Adak way....stationing at sea while the Long range bombers went out to pound Paramashiro and Matsuwa.
The Aluetian theatre seldom gets mention in the history books...yet hundreds of vessels from subs to fleet tenders endured the harsh weather..stood station to rescue downed airmen...and gave the Japanese a good throtling when they could.
** Comical note concerning the Aluetians**
Moored offshore at Dutch Harbor..an officer on DD-520 saw a fellow officer walk toward him during the night watch.
The appraoching officer called out for the gig to be readied..he was going to go ashore.
With a few sailors scurrying about there was a splash..then a call.."Man overboard"!
Looking over the flying bridge the one officer noticed his friend in the water cursing.
later it was discovered that the one officer had dressed himself..conveyed orders..all while sleepwalking.
talk about a wake up call!