Outwardly similar to the Forrest Sherman class, Charles F. Adams was the first U.S. Navy ship designed from the keel up to launch anti-aircraft missiles.

While engaged in this operation the Cuban Missile Crisis developed and Charles F. Adams moved to the Caribbean Sea as part of the quarantine forces around the island of Cuba.

Attempts were made to acquire the ship as a museum while it was being stored on Donation Hold status at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard in Pennsylvania.

[2] Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan's proposal to develop the riverfront included a location for the ship.

[4] In September 2020, the Charles F. Adams left Philadelphia Navy Yard under tow, bound for Brownsville, Texas, for scrapping.