USS Helm, DD 388, was launched by Norfolk Navy Yard 27 May 1937; sponsored by Mrs. J. M. Helm, widow; and commissioned 16 October 1937, Lt. Comdr. P. H. Talbot in command.

Rear Admiral James Meredith Helm was born 16 December 1855 at Grayville, Illinois    After graduating from the Naval Academy in 1875, he served in multiple ships and abroad until the Spanish-American War, when he commanded gunboat Hornet.    In the blockade of Cuba, he captured a Spanish steamer and three contraband schooners, and was advanced five numbers in grade for outstanding performance at the Battle of Manzanillo 30 June 1898.    Helm subsequently commanded Idaho and Wabash.    During World War I, Rear Admiral Helm was Commandant of the 4th Naval District and received the Navy Cross for his achievements.    He retired 16 December 1919 and died 28 October 1927.

   After shakedown Helm operated in the Caribbean until March 1938. Following summer exercises, she was attached to the newly formed Atlantic Squadron 1 October 1938. Early in 1939 she deployed with Carrier Division 2 in the Caribbean for the annual fleet problem, developing tactics and doctrine so vital in the war which was to come. Transferred to the West Coast in May 1939, Helm engaged in fleet exercises and screening maneuvers out of San Diego and the Hawaiian Islands. This duty continued through the troubled months of 1941, and on the morning of 7 December Helm was underway in West Loch Channel, Pearl Harbor when the Japanese planes struck. The destroyer manned her guns and brought down at least one of the attackers while she was strafed and slightly damaged by two bombs close aboard. After the attack, she joined the task group of carrier Saratoga just arrived from San Diego and served as screening ship and plane guard. (continued)