The building of the USS Emory S Land AS-39 commenced on November 15, 1974, at the Ingalls Shipbuilding Division of Litton Industries, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This submarine tender was a part of the Henry J. Kaiser class fleet replenishment oiler program and was named after Vice Admiral Emory Scott Land. It took three years to construct this vessel with its keel being laid down on September 26, 1977.
Vice Admiral Emory S. Land played a role during World War II as Chief of the Bureau of Construction and Repair. He significantly contributed to expanding the US Navy's shipbuilding capabilities. Naming this ship after him served as a tribute to honor his dedication to engineering and his efforts in strengthening America's maritime forces.
One notable characteristic of the USS Emory S Land AS-39 is its size. With a length exceeding 677 feet and a displacement of over 23,000 tons when fully loaded, it stands as one of the ships in its class. Its immense dimensions provide storage capacity for supplies and equipment for supporting submarines during their deployments.
The significant impact made by the USS Emory S Land AS-39 within the US Navy is worth mentioning. The USS Emory S Land AS-39 played a role as a submarine tender offering services like maintenance, repairs, fueling, and resupplying to submarines both at sea and in ports worldwide. Its presence ensured that submarines could effectively operate without returning to shore.
The Emory S Land was a part of the Henry J. Kaiser class fleet replenishment oiler program which consisted of five purpose-built ships for replenishing operations with vessels at sea like submarines and surface combatants. It provided support needed by various naval units operating far from their home ports.
On December 7, 1979, the USS Emory S Land AS-39 was officially commissioned into service during a ceremony held at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. This marked its entrance into duty within the US Navy's fleet and symbolized its readiness to fulfill its mission as a submarine tender.
Behind the Scenes: USS Emory S Land AS 39's Crucial Role in Submarine Support and Defense
The USS Emory S Land AS-39 is a vessel belonging to the United States Navy that plays a crucial role in supporting submarine operations. Serving as a submarine tender it offers maintenance and logistical support to submarines while they are at sea. The ship's design efficiently accommodates functionalities. With a length of 677 feet and weighing over 23,000 tons, the USS Emory S Land provides space for workshops, storage areas, repair facilities, and berths for its crew.
In terms of technology, the USS Emory S Land boasts cutting-edge systems that enhance its capabilities. It is equipped with communication systems and satellite links that enable contact with submarines and other naval assets across vast distances. Additionally, it features navigation equipment like radar systems and GPS technology to ensure precise positioning during operations.
Regarding armament on the USS Emory S Land, its primary focus lies in self-defense capabilities rather than weaponry. The USS Emory S Land is equipped with defense systems, like Phalanx or SeaRAM missile defense systems to safeguard against dangers such as ship missiles or aircraft attacks. These defense systems can engage targets simultaneously using rapid-fire cannons or guided missiles.
In addition to measures the primary equipment on board the USS Emory S Land includes cranes for handling submarine repair and maintenance tasks. These cranes have lifting capacities making it effortless to handle components. They play a role in facilitating repair work at sea by swiftly moving heavy machinery or parts between storage areas and workshops.
Evolution and Upgrades: USS Emory S Land AS 39's Vital Role in Strengthening the US Navy Fleet
Over its years of service, the USS Emory S Land AS-39 has undergone upgrades that have improved its mission capabilities and strengthened the US Navy fleet as a whole. One notable upgrade occurred in 1994 when a state-of-the-art submarine tender facility was installed. This modernization allowed the ship to provide maintenance and logistical support to submarines operating in regions worldwide. The addition of this facility greatly enhanced the ship's ability to effectively carry out its mission.
Alongside upgraded facilities, the USS Emory S Land AS-39 has constantly evolved its mission capabilities over time. Originally commissioned as a destroyer tender in 1979, it later transitioned into a submarine tender role in 2002. This change reflected shifts in strategy and showcased the ship's adaptability to meet changing operational requirements. As a submarine tender, it plays a role by providing repairs, supplies, and services to submarines during extended deployments.
Throughout its service history, the USS Emory S Land AS-39 has made contributions to the fleet. The US Navy submarines rely on the support services provided by the USS Emory S Land AS-39 to maintain a presence worldwide. This versatile vessel ensures that submarines can receive repairs at sea or during port visits allowing them to stay fully operational when far away from home ports or major repair facilities. This capability greatly enhances strategic deterrence efforts and enables operations conducted by US Navy forces in various regions.
Moreover, besides supporting submarines the USS Emory S Land AS-39 also plays a role by facilitating sustained operations through logistics support functions such as fuel replenishment and cargo transfer capabilities. These additional responsibilities make it an invaluable asset within any task force or theater of operation where long duration deployments or response efforts are critical.
In summary with upgrades that enhance its mission capabilities over time, the USS Emory S Land AS-39 has proven to be an asset in the US Navy fleet. Its advanced submarine tender facilities and adaptability to changing roles have solidified its importance within the naval force structure. As this ship continues its service it will undoubtedly play a role in maintaining maritime security and projecting American power across the world's oceans.
Memories Aboard USS Emory S. Land AS-39: A Journey Through Time and Camaraderie
The USS Emory S. Land AS-39 holds a special place in the hearts of those who served aboard her. From 1978 to 2005, this versatile submarine tender became a second home to countless sailors, leaving them with enduring memories and lasting friendships.
Erika Carrillo, who served from 1999 to 2001, reminisces about the profound impact the USS Emory S. Land had on her life. She credits her time on the ship with her personal growth as a sailor and values the experience it provides.
Vickie Waskivich fondly recalls the camaraderie and the friendships forged during her service from 1999 to 2001. She invites fellow crew members to reach out and reconnect, reflecting on the unforgettable moments shared on board.
Yazmin Garcia Carrasco, who served from 2002 to 2004, cherishes the memories and friendships made during her time aboard. She expresses her gratitude for the incredible experiences and the enduring friendship of Brenda Flores.
Tommy Anderson, an EM3 who served in 1980-1981, shares stories of exciting cruises, including a memorable trip to the Indian Ocean with port calls in Spain, Diego Garcia, Haifa (Israel), and Malaga (Spain). These adventures created lifelong memories for those on board.
Dana Becker, an ML2 and plank owner who served from 1979 to 1982, reflects on the unique experience of being part of the USS Emory S. Land's early crew. He fondly remembers the Indian Ocean cruise as a highlight of his service.
Larry Councill, a BT2 from 1978 to 1983, lightens the mood with his humorous recollection of the ship's camaraderie. He playfully teases his fellow crew members and invites them to reminisce together.
Traeshawnia Hilburn, known as Willybone, served from 2001 to 2004 as an OS3 (SW/AW). She treasures the fun times she shared with friends and colleagues during her time on the USS Emory S. Land and warmly remembers the friendships formed.
Troy Scarselli, an HT2 E5 who served from 1982 to 1987, reflects on the transition from eager anticipation of leaving the ship to the occasional longing to return. He expresses a desire to reconnect with the friends he made during his service.
April Lee, who served from 2002 to 2004 as SN, NOW CS3, expresses her love for the USS Emory S. Land and her preference for it over her subsequent assignment. She fondly remembers the Master Chief and the deck friends she worked alongside.
Amanda Robbins, an ADAN who served from 2002 to 2005, reflects on her time on the USS Emory S. Land and how it shaped her career. She acknowledges the challenges faced in the deck department but has found fulfillment in her new role as a MECH in Jacksonville, FL.
The USS Emory S Land AS 39: A Legacy of Deployments, Commitment, and Excellence in Service
The USS Emory S Land AS 39 has an impressive history of deployments playing a role in significant conflicts during its time of service. From the Persian Gulf to the Western Pacific this versatile ship has consistently demonstrated its capabilities and unwavering commitment to serving the United States Navy.
Back in 1991 during Operation Desert Storm, the USS Emory S Land was deployed to provide support for forces operating in the Persian Gulf region. Serving as a submarine tender it played a role in maintaining and repairing submarines to ensure their readiness during this conflict. The skilled crew of the ship worked tirelessly day and night to keep submarines equipped and ready for combat.
Apart from its contributions during Operation Desert Storm, the USS Emory S Land also actively participated in major conflicts over the years. It provided maintenance services for submarines operating off both coasts of Iraq during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Its presence ensured that American submarines could carry out their missions effectively without interruption.
The remarkable performance of the USS Emory S Land has not gone unnoticed within circles. Throughout its service, it has received awards and commendations for its contributions. These accolades include Battle Efficiency Awards (known as Battle "E") which acknowledge excellence in operational areas such as maintenance efficiency, personnel training, and overall mission accomplishment.
Moreover, the USS Emory S Land has received unit commendations for demonstrating teamwork in challenging situations. These commendations not only highlight the ship's ability to operate at peak efficiency but also recognize the dedication and professionalism of its crew.
To summarize, through its deployments in conflict zones like the Persian Gulf and Western Pacific Ocean along with its contributions during major conflicts like Operation Desert Storm or Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom, USS Emory S Land AS-39 has proven to be a valuable asset to the US Navy. The numerous commendations it has received serve as evidence of the ship's exceptional performance and the unwavering commitment of its crew, to upholding the highest standards of service.
USS Emory S Land AS-39 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Emory S Land Class Submarine Tender |
| Commissioned | July 7, 1979 |
| Displacement | 22,978 tons |
| Length | 677 feet |
| Beam | 85 feet |
| Draft | 29 feet |
| Speed | 21 knots |
| Complement | 1,500 |
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Years Served: 2002-2005…Served as Aviation Ordinance (AO)and later as a Boatswains Mate (BM) Third Class with Surface Warfare (SW) until getting reassigned as a Corpsman at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. ending active service in July 2007