USNS Rose

• USNS Rose (T-AKV-11) was a cargo ship acquired by the U.S. Navy during World War II and was used to transport aircraft and supplies to support military operations. • The ship was originally built in 1940 as the SS William Nott and later renamed USNS Rose after being acquired by the Navy. • USNS Rose was part of the Alamosa-class cargo ships, which were designed to support the logistics needs of the Navy and Army in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters. • During World War II, the ship played a crucial role in delivering aircraft, aviation parts, and supplies to forward bases, helping maintain air superiority in key regions. • The ship was operated by the Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS), now called Military Sealift Command, meaning it was crewed primarily by civilians but served military missions. • USNS Rose earned battle stars for its participation in significant wartime operations, highlighting its critical support role in the war effort. • In addition to carrying cargo, USNS Rose was sometimes tasked with transporting wounded personnel back from forward areas, acting as a lifeline for injured servicemen. • After World War II, the ship continued to serve in various logistical roles, supporting U.S. military efforts during the early Cold War period. • USNS Rose was eventually decommissioned and struck from the Naval Register, but her service exemplified the vital, often unsung, logistics work that underpins military success. • The story of USNS Rose is a testament to the importance of support ships in military history—while not as famous as warships, their contribution was essential to victory and the well-being of frontline troops.