AKA-13

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About AKA-13

USS Thuban (AKA-13) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. She served extensively in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in major amphibious operations including the invasions of Kwajalein, Saipan, Leyte, and Okinawa. Thuban provided vital logistics support, delivering troops, vehicles, and supplies to the front lines under combat conditions. After the war, she continued to serve with the Atlantic Fleet until her decommissioning in 1967. Throughout her service, USS Thuban earned six battle stars for her World War II contributions.

Unit Members

William Dame

U.S. Navy

AKA-13View Profile

Michael Manning

U.S. Navy

AKA-13View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About AKA-13

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• AKA-13's Official Name: The USS Alcyone (AKA-13) was an attack cargo ship of the United States Navy, part of the Andromeda-class. • Commissioned in World War II: USS Alcyone was commissioned on 4 October 1943 and served actively during the Second World War. • Namesake: The ship was named after Alcyone, the brightest star in the Pleiades cluster in the constellation Taurus. • Major Invasions: USS Alcyone participated in several key amphibious assaults, including the invasions of Normandy (D-Day), Southern France, and Okinawa. • D-Day Involvement: On June 6, 1944, Alcyone supported the Allied landings at Utah Beach, unloading troops and vital supplies under enemy fire. • Battle Stars: The ship earned six battle stars for her service in World War II, reflecting her participation in multiple major operations. • Rescue Operations: During the invasion of Southern France, Alcyone rescued survivors from other vessels damaged by enemy action. • Postwar Service: After WWII, USS Alcyone took part in Operation Magic Carpet, transporting returning American troops home from Europe. • Decommissioning: The ship was decommissioned on 14 May 1946 and later transferred to the Maritime Commission. • Legacy: The story of USS Alcyone (AKA-13) is a testament to the vital role attack cargo ships played in amphibious warfare, providing logistics and support that made Allied victories possible.