USS Charles F. Adams
by Paul Helfrich

1/700 USS Charles F. Adams (DML)

This is the Dragon model of the USS Charles F. Adams, DDG 2. She was the lead ship of large class of destroyers that first entered service in the late 1950's. Other ships of this type have served in the Australian and German navies (the Bundesmarine named some of its Adams-class ships for notable German military figures from WWII, including "Rommel" and "Lutjens.")

The real Adams was laid up in 1992 and was, probably still is, at Philadelphia Navy Yard. There were plans for her to become a museum ship in Saginaw, Michigan, however I understand the planners there are now looking at a different ship.

The class exhibits the sleek, lean, long lines that just say "destroyer." Dragon's kit is excellent - very nicely done, with lots of fine details that really bring the model to life, even in an out-of-the-box build.

Update:
I have now learned the ship remains afloat at Philadelphia Navy Yard and efforts are underway to preserve it permanently. Anyone interested in helping with this effort may click on the link below.

Adams Class Veterans Assoc website: http://adamsclassddgvets.org/