While escorting convoy RA-18 back to the States in Sept. 1942, the lookouts of the cruiser Brooklyn and destroyer Mayo noticed a cloud of smoke billowing from the ex-liner- now troopship- USS Wakefield. The Wakefield had 650 crewmembers, plus 1000 defense workers that had been working in England, on board at the time of the fire. Immediately seen from the transport was the signal……." I am on Fire.", as she dropped out of the convoy formation.

Receiving permission from Task Force 38's Commander, the Mayo moved alongside the transport to render assistance. The transport's amidships was now fully engulfed in flame, driving the ship's passengers and crew to the bow and stern of the transport.

Mayo and cruiser Brooklyn alongside Wakefield; picture taken from Brooklyn

The first to reach the blazing Wakefield, the Mayo moved along the port side to take on survivors. Within 20 minutes, 247 men were taken from the burning liner to safety aboard the Mayo. The cruiser Brooklyn-with 800 survivors-, and destroyers Madison and Niblack also rendered assistance to the hapless transport. The Mayo, filled to capacity-which doubled her regular complement, headed for New York with the survivors. The total ship's complement of the burning Wakefield was removed without a fatality, an amazing act of superior seamanship. The Wakefield was towed to port and eventually reactivated to regular service by August 1944.

For their outstanding participation in this action, both Commander Irving Duke and the Mayo were commended for the outstanding ship handling and quickness in responding to a dangerous situation.