USS Grayson (DD-435)

USS Grayson (DD-435)

USS Grayson (DD-435), a Gleaves-class destroyer, is the only ship of the United States Navy to be named for Rear Admiral Cary Travers Grayson, who served as personal physician and aide to President Woodrow Wilson during World War I. He also served as chairman of the American Red Cross from 1935 until his death 15 February 1938.

Grayson was laid down 17 July 1939 by the Charleston Navy Yard, South Carolina, launched 7 August 1940; sponsored by Mrs. Alice Gertrude Gordon Grayson Harrison (Mrs. George Leslie Harrison), widow of Rear Admiral Grayson; and commissioned 14 February 1941, Lieutenant Commander Thomas M. Stokes in command.