This Day in Naval History - Oct. 13

1775 - The Continental Congress establishes a Continental Navy, later known as the U.S. Navy.
1943 - The Destroyer Bristol (DD 453) is sunk, with the loss of 52 lives, by the U-317 off the coast of Algeria.
1954 - USS Saipan (CVL 48) begins relief and humanitarian aid operations for Haitians who were victims of Hurricane Hazel. The operation ended Oct. 19.

For more information about naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil.