1953 Press Photo Japanese Sailors take over the American Warship in Yokosuka

Japanese enlisted men and officers are shown ready to man one of the ten small warships turned over to Japan by the US Navy to augment the Japanese Coastal Safety Force, nucleus of a new Japanese Navy. The ships turned over were six frigates and four LSSL's (Landing Ship Support, large). The Frigates, built in 1943-44 are 1,100 ton craft. Vessels are on loan for an initial period of five years. Three of the Frigates may be seen in background.

Photo is dated 1953.

Photo measures 7 x 9.25 inches.