During World War II, the importance of logistical support became abundantly clear as naval operations expanded across multiple theaters of war. Combat logistics and resupply ships played a crucial role in ensuring that fleets remained operational, supplying essential fuel, ammunition, and other materials. This article examines the construction and significance of various types of resupply ships, specifically focusing on those built during World War II.
Types of Resupply Ships
Combat logistics and resupply ships can be categorized into several key types, each with a unique role:
- Ammunition Ships (AE): Responsible for transporting and supplying ammunition to naval forces.
- Stores Ships (AF): Provided general supplies, including food, clothing, and other materials necessary for the fleet.
- Oilers (AO): Specialized vessels designed to refuel ships at sea, ensuring that naval operations could continue without interruption.
- Gasoline Tankers (AOG): Carried gasoline for smaller vessels and aircraft.
WWII Construction Record
The construction of resupply ships during WWII was undertaken by various shipyards across the United States. Notable examples include:
- Shooting Star (AE-3): Originally named “Shooting Star,” this ammunition ship was built by Tampa Ship and commissioned on March 27, 1941. It was scrapped in 1974 after serving in various capacities, including resupply missions.
- Surprise (AE-4): Known as “Kilauea,” this ship was also built by Tampa Ship and commissioned on May 16, 1941. It underwent a name change to “Mount Baker” before being scrapped in 1974.
- Rainbow (AE-5): Built by Tampa Ship and commissioned on December 21, 1941, “Rainbow” was later renamed “Rainier” and scrapped in 1971.
- Comet (AE-6): Another product of Tampa Ship, “Comet” was commissioned on January 20, 1942, and was scrapped in 1970.
- Cape Sable (AE-10): Built at Pennsylvania Shipyard and commissioned on March 25, 1943, “Cape Sable” was eventually sold in 1980 after its decommissioning.
The Navy also commissioned numerous stores ships and oilers, including:
- Stag Hound (AF-10): This stores ship, built by Newport News and commissioned on January 10, 1941, was scrapped in 1974.
- Cimarron (AO-22): Built by Sun Shipbuilding and commissioned on March 20, 1939, this oiler was scrapped in 1969.
- Esso Albany (AO-25): Another notable oiler, built by Beth Sparrows Point and commissioned on December 5, 1940, it was scrapped in 1983.
Noteworthy Conversions
Several ships were converted to serve as resupply vessels during the war. For example, “Marco Polo” (AE-11) was built by North Carolina and commissioned on July 1, 1944, but tragically exploded and was lost in the Admiralty Islands later that year.
Similarly, “Arequipa” (AF-31), constructed at Pennsylvania Shipyard and commissioned on January 14, 1945, was sold in 1972 and converted into a fish factory ship.
The construction and deployment of combat logistics and resupply ships during World War II were vital to sustaining naval operations. These ships not only provided ammunition and fuel but also supported the overall war effort by ensuring that naval forces remained supplied and operational. The legacy of these vessels continues to influence modern naval logistics and strategy, highlighting the enduring importance of effective supply chains in military operations.
For further information on auxiliary ships built before and after World War II, visit Colton Company for pre-WWII vessels and Colton Company for post-WWII auxiliary ships.