The destroyer is named after Vice Adm. John D. Bulkeley, who, as a lieutenant kept his squadron operational for more than four months under extremely difficult conditions in the Philippines during the early months of WW II. At the request of the President, General of the Army Douglas MacArthur was ordered to leave the Philippines. On the night of March 11, 1942, Vice Adm. Bulkeley, commanding Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Three, made a daring dash out of Manila Harbor taking Gen. MacArthur to safety. Squadron Three continued to operate in Philippine waters later also rescuing the President of the Philippines. For his gallantry and leadership, Vice Adm. Bulkeley received the Medal of Honor.
