ARL 24 USS Sphinx

• Landing Craft Repair Ship: USS Sphinx (ARL-24) was an Achelous-class landing craft repair ship, designed to provide maintenance and repair services to landing craft during amphibious operations. • Converted LST: She was originally laid down as LST-963 (Landing Ship, Tank), but was converted during construction into a repair ship and renamed Sphinx. • World War II Service: Sphinx was commissioned in March 1945 and served in the Pacific Theater during the final months of World War II, supporting invasion forces by maintaining and repairing landing craft. • Post-War Occupation Duty: After Japan's surrender, USS Sphinx participated in occupation duties in both Japan and China, helping stabilize the region and assisting with post-war recovery efforts. • Decommissioned and Recommissioned: Sphinx was decommissioned in 1947 but was later recommissioned for service in the Korean War, highlighting her ongoing utility to the Navy. • Vietnam War Service: The ship was again activated for the Vietnam War, where she provided critical repair and support services to riverine and coastal forces as part of the "Brown Water Navy." • Riverine Support: During Vietnam, Sphinx played a vital role in Operation Game Warden and Operation Market Time, maintaining the small craft used in river patrols and interdiction missions. • Multiple Battle Stars: For her service, Sphinx earned several battle stars and commendations, recognizing her significant contributions across three major conflicts. • Long Service Life: USS Sphinx had an exceptionally long service life, being active in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War—a rare feat for any naval vessel. • Museum Ship Efforts: After decommissioning, there were efforts to preserve USS Sphinx as a museum ship, reflecting her historical significance; however, she was ultimately scrapped in 2016.