Mine Division 113

• Establishment: Mine Division 113 (MinDiv 113) was established as part of the United States Navy's efforts to organize and manage its fleet of minesweepers, especially during and after World War II. • World War II Service: MinDiv 113 played a crucial role in clearing naval mines in the Pacific Theater, ensuring the safety of Allied ships during amphibious landings and supply operations. • Korean War Operations: During the Korean War, MinDiv 113's ships were deployed to clear mines off the Korean coast, supporting United Nations naval operations and enabling safe landings and blockades. • Types of Ships: The division typically included Admirable-class and Auk-class minesweepers, both of which were vital to mine clearance operations due to their advanced equipment and versatility. • Home Ports: Mine Division 113 was at various times homeported in key naval bases such as Pearl Harbor, Sasebo (Japan), and Long Beach, reflecting its deployment needs in the Pacific. • Cold War Activities: After World War II, MinDiv 113 continued to operate during the early years of the Cold War, participating in exercises to counter potential Soviet mine threats. • Heroic Actions: Ships and crews from MinDiv 113 were often commended for bravery, notably during hazardous post-battle mine clearance in heavily mined waters. • International Cooperation: The division worked alongside Allied navies, including the Royal Navy and Republic of Korea Navy, in combined mine warfare exercises and operations. • Technological Evolution: Over its history, MinDiv 113 saw significant advancements in mine detection and disposal technology, transitioning from mechanical sweeping to the use of sonar and remotely operated vehicles. • Legacy: The legacy of Mine Division 113 lives on in modern mine countermeasures units, which continue the tradition of ensuring safe passage for naval and commercial vessels worldwide.