USS David W. Taylor (DD-551), a Fletcher-class destroyer, was a ship of the United States Navy named for Rear Admiral David W. Taylor (1864–1940). David W. Taylor was launched 4 July 1942 by Gulf Shipbuilding Corporation, Chickasaw, Ala., sponsored by Mrs. Imogene Taylor Powell, daughter of RAdm Taylor; and commissioned 18 September 1943, Lieutenant Commander W. H. Johnsen in command.