USS Greer (DD-145)

USS Greer (DD-145)

USS Greer (DD–145) was a Wickes class destroyer in the United States Navy, the first ship named for Rear Admiral James A. Greer (1833–1904). In what became known as the "Greer incident," she became the first U.S. Navy ship to fire on a German ship, three months before the United States officially entered World War II. The incident led President Franklin D. Roosevelt to issue what became known as his "shoot-on-sight" order. Many have disputed whether the Greer acted aggressively before shots were exchanged.

Greer was launched by William Cramp & Sons Ship & Engine Building Co., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 1, 1918; sponsored by Miss Evelina Porter Gleaves, daughter of Rear Admiral Albert Gleaves; and commissioned December 31, 1918, Commander C. E. Smith in command.