The USS KIDD (DD-661), a United States Navy Fletcher-class destroyer, was launched in February 1943. The Kidd served for over twenty years and was decommissioned on June 19, 1964.  Years later, a search was conducted for a museum ship for the Baton Rouge area.  After a long process, the KIDD was donated by the Navy and she arrived in Baton Rouge on May 23, 1982.  She opened to the public for the first time on August 27, 1983.

Today, USS KIDD has been restored to her August 1945 configuration and she is one of the most authentic and accurate restorations in the Historic Fleet. Of the three preserved Fletcher-class destroyers, she is the only destroyer remaining in her World War II appearance and is now on exhibit in her wartime camouflage paint, “Measure 22.”

DD-661 Specifications ( Navel Vessel Register)

The USS KIDD is the home of W5KID, the amateur radio station operated and supported by the members of the Baton Rouge Amateur Radio Club.  The club station is normally staffed on most military-related holidays generally from 9 am to 4 pm (CST)  Each July, W5KID and other amateur radio clubs operate from the various museum vessels for the Museum Ships Weekend Event.  Currently there are over 60 ships around who operate on a number of the amateur radio bands, making contacts with other ships and amateur radio operators throughout the world.

 

Special Events for the USS Kidd, DD-661

The Baton Rouge Amateur Radio Club and the USS Kidd Amateur Radio Club will hold several special event days each year. We are normally on the air from 09:00 until 16:45 (local time); however, these times may be adjusted depending on the ship’s schedule. For specific dates and event times, check the BARC home page. – www.brarc.org

Regular Events

Memorial Day

Veteran’s Day

Pearl Harbor Day

Operating Frequencies

SSB Frequencies:   15, 20 and 40 meters inside the General band;
Normally above RTTY sub band

CW Frequencies:    20 meters will be the principal band;
QRP sub bands

QSL Info

QSL to W5KID with a stamped SASE size 10 or larger.

W5KID
c/o USS Kidd Museum
305 South River Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
w5kid@brarc.org

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