The USS Kline (APD 120) was a fast transport ship built during World War II. Constructed at the Bethlehem Hingham Shipyard in Hingham, Massachusetts, its construction began on November 15, 1944. Originally classified as a Rudderow class destroyer escort under DE 687, it was later reclassified as a Crosley class high-speed transport. Renamed APD 120 on July 17, 1944, before being built, the ship was launched on December 19, 1944, and entered service in the United States Navy on March 18, 1945, under the command of Lieutenant Commander John W. Higgins.
It was named after Private First Class Johnnie David Kline, a US Marine who posthumously received the Navy Cross for his bravery during the Battle of Guadalcanal. PFC Kline's courage and sacrifice embodied the valor and dedication of Marines, making him a fitting choice for naming a vessel intended for supporting operations and swift troop deployment. The USS Kline honored his legacy as a tribute to the bravery and dedication of those who served in the Pacific Theater.
One notable aspect of the USS Kline was its capacity to rapidly transport and deploy troops, thanks to its high-speed capabilities and specialized design.
Unlike destroyer escorts, Crosley class ships were unique for their inclusion of landing craft and provisions for accommodating a number of troops. For instance, the USS Kline had the capability to carry four LCVPs (Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel) and transport up to 162 troops, making it a crucial asset for assaults and rapid deployment missions.
The USS Kline’s impact on the US Navy's history is marked by its adaptability and contributions to post-World War II activities. Although it missed participating in World War II due to its commissioning, the USS Kline engaged in peacetime drills and operations, showcasing the effectiveness of rapid transports in the Navy's evolving amphibious warfare tactics. Its service played a role in refining strategies and methods later utilized in conflicts such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
As part of the Crosley class subgroup of the Rudderow class destroyer escorts, the USS Kline was tailored for high-speed transport duties that demanded a blend of velocity, troop capacity, and flexibility. These ships were engineered to support operations by ferrying troops and equipment to shorelines, often amid combat scenarios.
The USS Kline and its sister ships contributed to the Navy's operations, offering swift response capabilities crucial for successful landings and attacks.
Launched on March 18, 1945, the USS Kline quickly became part of the US Navy's fleet. Its launch marked the beginning of a service history that, although not involving combat in World War II, held significance in the war era. The ship’s design and capabilities reflected the Navy’s approach to developing vessels tailored for amphibious warfare. The USS Kline’s contributions to operations and its role in advancing strategies highlight the importance of high-speed transports in the US Navy’s strategic framework.
USS Kline APD-120: A Deep Dive into the Engineering Marvel and Firepower of a WWII Naval Workhorse
The USS Kline (APD 120) was initially built as a Rudderow class destroyer escort and later transformed into a Crosley class high-speed transport. Its structure was carefully crafted to be strong and adaptable, allowing it to serve roles such as troop transportation and anti-submarine operations. Made of high-tensile steel, the hull provided the durability needed for missions. Measuring 306 feet long with a beam of 37 feet and a draft of around 12 feet, the USS Kline’s compact yet robust design enabled it to navigate various waters.
In terms of technology, the USS Kline was equipped with advanced systems for its era. Powered by two General Electric turboelectric drive engines producing a combined output of 12,000 shaft horsepower, the ship could reach speeds up to 23 knots, making it one of the swifter vessels in its category. It featured radar and sonar systems, including surface search radar and QHB sonar.
The advancements in technology significantly improved the ship’s navigation and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, enabling it to detect and monitor enemy vessels more effectively.
Regarding weaponry, the USS Kline was well-prepared for both defense and offensive actions. Its main armament included a 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose gun, capable of targeting both surface and aerial threats. Additionally, the ship was armed with three twin 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and six 20mm Oerlikon cannons, providing strong defense against air attacks. The vessel also had two depth charge tracks and four depth charge projectors, vital for submarine operations. These weapons allowed the USS Kline to fulfill combat roles such as gunfire support and anti-submarine patrols.
In addition to its weaponry, the USS Kline had the capacity to transport troops and equipment. It could accommodate up to 162 troops and carried four LCVP (Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel) boats for missions. These landing craft enabled the deployment of troops and gear onto hostile shores, proving crucial during amphibious assaults.
The USS Kline was considered a versatile vessel in the U.S. Navy during World War II and beyond due to its technology, strong weaponry, and versatile transport capabilities.
USS Kline APD-120 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Kline (APD-120) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as reflected in the memories shared in its guestbook. One particularly poignant recollection comes from Chief Musician Nathan H. Wilensky, USN (ret), who reflects on his grandfather, Nathan Monash Wilensky's service aboard the ship. Nathan Monash Wilensky served as a Seaman Second Class (S2C) in 1944 and was part of the crew during a notable rescue operation.
On November 5, 1944, the USS Kline was involved in a dramatic rescue off the coast of Georgia. The ship's crew successfully saved the crew of a blimp, an event that stands out in the ship's storied history. This act of bravery and quick response is a testament to the dedication and skill of the men who served aboard the USS Kline.
Nathan H. Wilensky's account not only honors his grandfather's service but also highlights a significant moment in the ship's operational history. The rescue of the blimp's crew is a vivid example of the unpredictable and often perilous nature of naval service during that era. It underscores the readiness and valor of the USS Kline's crew, who were prepared to face any challenge that came their way.
These shared memories serve as a bridge between generations, connecting the past with the present and ensuring that the legacy of the USS Kline and its crew continues to be remembered and celebrated.
USS Kline APD-120: Evolution of a Naval Workhorse and Its Enduring Legacy
The USS Kline was a valuable asset in submarine patrols due to its strong anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, adding versatility to its mission profile.
The contributions of the USS Kline to the fleet were diverse and substantial. Throughout its service, the ship participated in training exercises, assaults, and ASW operations, showcasing its value repeatedly. Its ability to swiftly transport and deploy troops and equipment proved invaluable during World War II and the early Cold War era. The ship’s support for Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs) was particularly notable, as these teams played key roles in clearing obstacles and gathering intelligence before landings. Known for its versatility and reliability, the Kline earned a reputation as a workhorse within the fleet, capable of adapting to evolving naval warfare demands.
Furthermore, the legacy of the USS Kline extends far beyond its service. The ship served as a testing ground for innovations and tactical doctrines that later became standard across the fleet. Its successful integration of radar and sonar systems, along with support for operational forces, offered valuable insights that shaped future naval vessel development. The Kline’s service history underscores the significance of adaptability and technological progress in maintaining naval supremacy.
The USS Kline (APD 120) showcased the evolving nature of warfare through its enhancements, varied mission capabilities, and valuable contributions, ultimately making a lasting impression on the United States Navy.
USS Kline APD-120 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Crosley Class High-Speed Transport |
| Commissioned | October 18, 1944 |
| Displacement | 1,400 tons |
| Length | 306 feet |
| Beam | 36 feet |
| Draft | 12.6 feet |
| Speed | 24 knots |
| Complement | 15 Officers 192 Enlisted |