The USS Amphion AR-13, a repair vessel, in the United States Navy was crafted during World War II by the Tampa Shipbuilding Company in Tampa, Florida. It set sail on May 15, 1944. Was christened after Amphion, a character from mythology revered for his musical gifts and leadership prowess.
A notable aspect of the USS Amphion AR-13 was its repair facilities enabling it to deliver maintenance and repair services to other ships in the fleet. This rendered the vessel an indispensable asset in bolstering the US Navy's missions during and after World War II. The ships lasting impact on the US Navy is characterized by its dependability and efficiency pivotal in ensuring readiness of the fleet during times of conflict.
Belonging to the Amphion class repair ships the USS Amphion AR-13 was designed to offer repair and maintenance support to fellow vessels. These ships were outfitted with workshops, machine shops and various facilities to cater to an array of repair and maintenance duties. The primary objective of Amphion class repair ships was to uphold peak standards, for all US Navy ships at all times.
The USS Amphion AR 13 entered service on September 15, 1944, under the leadership of Captain William H. Allen. It was part of the Pacific Fleet, during World War II. Participated in operations in regions such as the Philippines and Okinawa. Known for its repair and maintenance services for ships the USS Amphion AR 13 gained a reputation for its effectiveness.
After thirty years of duty the USS Amphion AR 13 was decommissioned in 1972 and later sold for scrap in 1974. Its retirement marked the conclusion of its service to the US Navy. Despite this it continues to symbolize the Navys dedication to maintaining a fleet through vessels like those, in the Amphion class that provide repair and maintenance support.
The Mighty USS Amphion AR-13: A Closer Look at the Navy's Versatile Repair Ship
The USS Amphion AR 13, a Chanticleer class submarine rescue vessel served in the United States Navy from 1944, to 1972. With its steel hull and cutting-edge technology such as gear and diving bells for rescues the ship stood out on the high seas.
In terms of defense the USS Amphion AR 13 was armed with aircraft guns, depth charges and torpedoes to fend off potential threats. Manned by a crew of over 200 sailors trained in weapon usage the ship was ready to engage in combat if required.
Featuring state of the art communication systems and navigation gear the technology aboard the USS Amphion AR 13 was top notch for its era. Equipped with radar and radio systems for communication and rescue coordination along with a sonar system, for detecting submarines and underwater dangers.
The USS Amphion AR 13 was a impressive ship that served a vital role in the history of the United States Navy. Equipped with technology and weaponry it successfully carried out missions to save submariners in distress and perform salvage operations with great skill and effectiveness.
USS Amphion AR-13 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Amphion (AR-13) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning from the early 1950s to its final voyage in the 1970s. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, from routine duties to extraordinary events, and the camaraderie that developed among the sailors.James Daber, who served in 1952 as an Electrician's Mate Fireman (EMFN), recalls his time in the engine room and his battle station duties at the forward 5-inch 38 gun and Damage Control team 1. Ralph Logan, a Machinist's Mate Third Class (MM3) in 1968, was part of the A gang, focusing on refrigeration and air conditioning, and stood watches in the evaporator and engine rooms.
Donald Murphy, a Commissaryman Third Class (CS3) in 1967, vividly remembers the engine room fire and assisting victims in the mess hall. He fondly recalls his friendships with Harold "Bo" Finely and CS1 Roger Stocking. Wesley Bailey, a Boiler Technician Third Class (BT3) from 1965 to 1967, notes that the ship was mostly tied to the pier except for a two-week Cardigan cruise.
Don Bell, a Machinery Repairman Second Class (MR2) in 1967, speaks highly of his duty and is interested in reconnecting with R2 personnel from the Gitmo, North Atlantic, Scotland, and England cruises. Ron Carpenter, a Boatswain's Mate Seaman (BMSN) in 1958, served with several shipmates and was assigned to small boats during a Mediterranean cruise supporting Lebanon.
Chuck Charles Colgrove, a Seaman in 1956, reminisces about the camaraderie and the Mediterranean cruise, including swimming on the beaches of southern France. Dave Cutitta, a Seaman-Electronics Technician Striker (SN-ET Striker) in 1960, recalls being assigned to the electronics repair shop before attending ETA school.
Keenan Ellis, a Seaman in 1963, humorously recounts spending his first night aboard in the brig due to a late arrival. Richard Flores, a Seaman in 1969, shares how his initial desire to leave the Navy was transformed into a career thanks to the support of the Chief Personnelman and the Captain.
James Gibson, an Instrumentman Second/First Class (IM2/IM1) in 1960, recalls the excitement of chasing what turned out to be a US research vessel. John Glenn, a Seaman in 1961, highlights a memorable cruise to Halifax, Nova Scotia, where the ship fired a 21-gun salute to Queen Elizabeth II.
Alvin Grams, an Interior Communications Electrician Fireman/Second Class (ICFN-IC2) in 1960, expresses a desire to reconnect with former shipmates, especially those in the Electricians and IC gang. Rick Hinsen, a Machinery Repairman/Fireman Apprentice (MR/FA MR-3) in 1968, shares his journey from boot camp to discovering the ship was in Cuba and then heading to Scotland.
James Jaggers, an Instrumentman Second Class (IM2) in 1968, fondly remembers visiting Farley jetty in Scotland and having liberty in Largs. Ronald Jewett, a Lithographer Seaman (LISN) in 1963, mentions his successful career in printing, attributing his skills to his Navy training.
John Mathews, a Machinist's Mate/Fireman Apprentice (MM/FA) in 1967, recalls the shakedown cruise to Gitmo and subsequent trips to Scotland and England, as well as the 1969 fire aboard the ship. Robert Millan, a Seaman E3 in 1967, seeks to reconnect with shipmates from the Gitmo and North Atlantic cruises.
Ron Patane, a Seaman in 1967, served as a trainer on the 5-inch gun mount during the Gitmo trip and the North Atlantic cruise. Max Payne, a Damage Control Chief (DCC) in 1968, enjoyed his tour and retired from the Amphion in 1970, serving as Fire Marshall and in charge of the Carpenter Shop.
Charles Ramos, an E3 in 1970, gives a shout-out to his cruise mates from the ship's last voyage to Iran. Richard Reynders, an E-2 Fireman in 1964, shares his brief stint aboard the Amphion before going AWOL and hitchhiking across the country.
Robert Roske, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1968, transferred from AO98 and left active duty after the shakedown cruise to Gitmo. Nelson Santoni, a Seaman in 1969, expresses sadness over the Navy selling the Amphion to Iran in 1972.
Lawrence Smith, a Seaman Apprentice (SA) in 1960, is represented by his son, who seeks information about his father's time aboard. Tom Sonsel, a Machinery Repairman Third Class (MR-3) in 1968, cherishes his excitement about joining the Navy and seeks to locate his best shipmate, J.R. Arbaugh.
William Tatum, a Boiler Technician Second Class (BT2) in 1968, recalls being caught in the fire on December 13, 1968, along with John Mathews. George Traylor, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1965, wishes to contact fellow Radiomen or Signalmen from his time aboard.
Lastly, Donald Vilfer, a Petty Officer First Class in 1969, is represented by his daughter-in-law, who seeks to surprise him by connecting with his former shipmates.
These memories collectively illustrate the diverse experiences and strong bonds formed aboard the USS Amphion (AR-13), reflecting the ship's storied history and the enduring connections among its crew.
USS Amphion AR-13: Evolution of a Naval Powerhouse and Its Enduring Legacy
Upgrades, Mission Capabilities and Contributions, to the Fleet
The USS Amphion (AR 13) went through upgrades during its time in service ensuring it remained a crucial asset for the U.S. Navy. Originally put into service in 1946 the ship was designed as a repair vessel, equipped to provide maintenance and repair services for ships. Over time the Amphion received improvements, including advanced radar systems upgraded communication equipment and cutting edge repair tools. These enhancements allowed the ship to keep up with the changing technology within the Navy ensuring its ability to effectively support ship classes and complex systems.
The mission capabilities of the USS Amphion were broad and varied. Serving as a repair vessel its main responsibility was to offer on the spot maintenance and repair services to the fleet covering everything, from repairs to overhauls. The ship was outfitted with machine shops, welding facilities and electronic repair stations that enabled it to address an array of electrical issues. Additionally the Amphion had the capability to carry out hull repairs, engine overhauls and even create replacement parts when needed.
The USS Amphions versatility proved invaluable during missions when access, to onshore repair facilities was limited.
The USS Amphion made wide reaching contributions to the fleet. Throughout its service the ship played a role in ensuring the Navys vessels remained operationally ready. By swiftly and effectively conducting repairs the Amphion ensured that ships could stay in service for periods with minimal disruptions. This capability was particularly crucial during times of heightened activity like the Korean War and the Vietnam War, where there was a demand for operational ships. The ability of the Amphion to carry out repairs at sea or in deployed locations greatly bolstered the Navys logistical flexibility and combat readiness.
In addition to its support the USS Amphion also served as a training ground for sailors providing them with essential skills in ship repair and maintenance. The practical knowledge gained aboard the Amphion played a role, in nurturing a group of skilled technicians and engineers who would later serve various roles across the Navy. Thus beyond its impact the ships legacy contributed significantly to enhancing the long term proficiency and effectiveness of the Navys technical workforce.
In essence the USS Amphion (AR 13) was more, than a repair vessel; it served as a component of naval operational assistance showcasing the enduring strength and versatility that define the U.S. Navy.
USS Amphion AR-13: A Beacon of Resilience and Valor on the High Seas
Deployments, Role, in Major Conflicts, Awards and Commendations
The USS Amphion (AR 13) played a role in the operations of the United States Navy during its years especially in World War II and the Korean War. Launched in 1945 the Amphion was an asset in the Pacific Theater providing repair services to the fleet. As a repair vessel it was well equipped with tools and skilled personnel to carry out maintenance tasks, such as repairing battle damaged hulls and overhauling machinery. This capability enabled the ship to support frontline activities by ensuring that other ships remained operational and combat ready significantly aiding in the war efforts.
Throughout the Korean War the USS Amphion continued to showcase its significance. Sent to the Far East region the ship offered repair services to the forces of the United Nations operating there. The presence of Amphion ensured that damaged ships could be quickly restored for service maintaining an tempo necessary for prolonged military engagements. Its ability to handle repairs under circumstances highlighted its importance as a force multiplier empowering the fleet to uphold a strong and efficient presence, in the conflict zone.
The USS Amphion during its duty received awards and recognitions for its valuable contributions, to naval operations. These accolades include the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal acknowledging the ships service in World War II. Additionally the Amphion was honored with the Korean Service Medal for its participation in the Korean War. These honors not showcase the ships successes but also pay tribute to the hard work and expertise of its crew who dedicated themselves to ensuring the vessels effectiveness in fulfilling its objectives.
The legacy of USS Amphion (AR 13) is characterized by resilience and steadfast support for the fleet. Its deployments in conflicts. The numerous accolades it received attest to its crucial role in upholding naval readiness and efficiency. The contributions of Amphion to the capabilities of the United States Navy during challenging periods underscore repair ships significance in sustaining maritime activities. As a symbol of engineering prowess and unwavering commitment USS Amphion stands as a chapter, in naval history records.
USS Amphion AR-13 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Amphion Class Repair Ship |
| Commissioned | January 30, 1946 |
| Displacement | 16,900 tons |
| Length | 492 feet |
| Beam | 69.5 feet |
| Draft | 27.5 feet |
| Speed | 16.5 knots |
| Complement | 67 Officers 853 Enlisted |