HMS Acheron (H45)

HMS Acheron (H45) was an A-class destroyer of the Royal Navy, commissioned in 1931. These destroyers were designed as flotilla leaders and saw extensive service throughout the Second World War.

Design and Construction: Acheron was part of the first group of destroyers built to the A-class standard, incorporating improvements over earlier designs. She was built by John I. Thornycroft & Company at Woolston, Southampton, and launched on 18 March 1930. She displaced around 1,350 tons standard load and was armed with four 4.7-inch guns, as well as anti-aircraft armament and torpedo tubes.

Service History: Upon commissioning, HMS Acheron joined the 3rd Destroyer Flotilla in the Mediterranean Fleet. Pre-war duties included exercises and fleet maneuvers. With the outbreak of World War II, she was assigned to convoy escort and anti-submarine duties in the Atlantic and later operated in the Norwegian Campaign in 1940. Acheron also participated in the evacuation of Dunkirk.

Fate: HMS Acheron was sunk on 17 December 1940 after striking a mine off the Isle of Wight. There were significant casualties among her crew.