Talk:USS Reuben James (DD-245)

How large was the crew?

The fact box says that the crew numbered 101 officers and men. The text of the entry says the crew totaled 159 of which 44 survived. I'm not taking sides here regarding American particpation in the war at that point, but can someone who knows more about the US Navy than I do clarify which number is correct? Thanks. (71.22.47.232 (talk) 03:34, 31 October 2010 (UTC))

 What were we NOT told about the sinking of the RJ?  

First of all, the US was in direct violation of the neutral combatants treaty by escoring vessels carrying munitions bound for a combatant country.

Secondly, there were no 'wolfpacks' at that time, they developed years later. Subs were lone wolves then.

Thirdly, and most importantly, the Reuben James, not the sub, was the aggressor. It had detected and engaged the sub, and enegaged in depth charge attacks while the sub was actually leaving the area of the convoy being escorted. It was only after the sub suffered considerable damage from the attack, that she stopped fleeing and instead turned and sank the ancient DD the RJ.

 I am afraid many Americans make judgements based on what they have been told, rather than what actually happened!

Rogelio39 —Preceding unsigned comment added by 148.66.83.138 (talk) 21:38, 5 February 2011 (UTC)

Conflict between Erich Topp page and RJ page

Edited by author of post: this was made in error. comment removed. 158.145.224.33 (talk) 18:56, 31 October 2011 (UTC)S.Rees

First sunk in WWII?

It seems a bit odd to state, as the article does, that this was the first US vessel to be sunk in WWII, when the US wasn't even in the war yet. There should at least be some explanation of this conundrum.--Piledhigheranddeeper (talk) 18:39, 31 October 2011 (UTC)