USS Slater, Albany (must see)

The USS Slater, currently docked on the Albany waterfront, is a surviving relic from World War II, offering a glimpse into a past era of naval warfare. This destroyer escort, launched in 1944 and named after Alabama sailor Frank O. Slater, is unique for preserving its original wartime armament.

During World War II, the Slater served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. In the Atlantic, it protected convoys of troops and supplies from German U-boats. In the Pacific, it defended naval task forces from Japanese submarines and kamikaze attacks.

After the war, the Slater was transferred to the Greek Navy, where it served as a training vessel, passing on its knowledge to future generations of sailors. In 1991, it was donated to the Destroyer Escort Historical Museum and later found its permanent home in Albany.

Today, visitors can take guided tours of the 306-foot-long ship, often led by Navy veterans. These tours provide insights into the daily life and duties of the Slater's crew, allowing visitors to explore its passageways, bridge, radio rooms, and living quarters. It offers a tangible connection to American naval history.