Marine detachment (USS MtMckinley AGC-7)

• Unique Role: The Marine Detachment (MarDet) aboard USS Mount McKinley (AGC-7) served as the ship's security force, ceremonial unit, and provided protection for the ship's command staff during operations. • Flagship Duties: USS Mount McKinley was a command ship, often serving as flagship for amphibious operations in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, making the MarDet a crucial element in safeguarding top commanders. • World War II Service: The MarDet participated in key Pacific operations, including the Battle of Okinawa, where the ship coordinated vast amphibious landings. • Korean War Operations: During the Inchon landings, the MarDet was aboard as Mount McKinley directed the daring amphibious assault that turned the tide of the war. • Ceremonial Honors: Mount McKinley’s MarDet provided rifle salutes, color guards, and honors for visiting dignitaries, including generals and admirals. • Vietnam War Activity: The MarDet was present as the ship played a central command role in early Vietnam War amphibious operations, such as the landings at Da Nang. • Disaster Relief: The detachment assisted with humanitarian and disaster relief missions, including support following typhoons and other crises in the Pacific. • Shipboard Life: Marines lived and trained aboard, maintaining readiness with small arms drills and shipboard security exercises, often in tight quarters alongside Navy crew. • Decommissioning: The MarDet was disbanded when Mount McKinley was decommissioned in 1970, ending a long history of Marine service aboard the ship. • Legacy: Veterans from the MarDet on USS Mount McKinley formed associations and reunions, preserving stories of their unique service at the heart of major 20th-century conflicts.