The USS Ward was, at her launching, as average as a destroyer could get. She was built fast, but her service did not lead one to believe she was anything special.

Until, after twenty years languishing in reserve, she would be taken out. And would come to fire the first American shots in the Pacific War.

Further Reading:
https://www.amazon.com/USSWardfirst...
https://www.amazon.com/USSWardOpera...
https://www.amazon.com/AttackPearlH...
https://www.amazon.com/USDestroyers...