USS Nicholas (DD-449)

The USS Nicholas (DD-449) was a Fletcher-class destroyer in the United States Navy during World War II. She was named for Major Samuel Nicholas, the first officer commissioned in the United States Marine Corps. Launched on April 16, 1942, and commissioned on June 4, 1942, the Nicholas participated extensively in the Pacific Theater of World War II, earning 16 battle stars, the most of any U.S. Navy destroyer in the war.

Following World War II, the USS Nicholas continued to serve in the Navy, participating in the Korean War, earning two battle stars for that conflict. She underwent various overhauls and modernization programs throughout her service life.

The Nicholas was decommissioned on January 30, 1970, and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register. She was sold for scrap in 1972. Her impressive service record and extensive battle honors made her one of the most decorated ships of the United States Navy.