About this Unit
USS **Algol (AKA-54)** was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in July 1944. Serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II, she played a vital role in several major amphibious operations, most notably participating in the Battle of Okinawa by delivering troops, vehicles, and supplies under enemy fire. After the war, Algol supported occupation efforts in Japan before decommissioning in 1946. Reactivated for the Korean War, she served as a cargo ship before finally being decommissioned in 1956 and later sunk as an artificial reef off the coast of New Jersey.
Historical Facts
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Commission and Naming: USS Algol (AKA-54) was commissioned on 21 July 1944. She was named after the star Algol in the constellation Perseus, continuing the tradition of naming attack cargo ships after celestial bodies.
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Artemis-Class Attack Cargo Ship: Algol was an Artemis-class attack cargo ship, a class designed during World War II to transport and land heavy equipment, supplies, and troops during amphibious assaults.
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World War II Service: Algol played a critical role in the Pacific Theater, participating in major operations including the Leyte Gulf landings in the Philippines and the invasion of Okinawa.
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Kamikaze Attack at Okinawa: While supporting the Okinawa campaign, Algol was struck by a kamikaze on 12 April 1945. Despite damage and casualties, her crew managed to control fires and keep the ship afloat, allowing her to continue operations.
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Awarded Battle Stars: For her service in World War II, USS Algol received two battle stars, recognizing her participation in key combat operations.
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Post-War Activity: After the war, Algol assisted in occupation duties in Japan and China and helped with the redeployment of troops during the immediate postwar period.
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Decommissioning and the Reserve Fleet: Algol was decommissioned in 1946 and placed in the National Defense Reserve Fleet, where she remained for several years.
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Conversion to an Artificial Reef: In 1991, USS Algol was sunk as an artificial reef off the coast of New Jersey. The site, known as "The Algol," is now a popular destination for recreational divers.
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The “Ghost Ship” Legend: Some divers have reported eerie experiences and unusual occurrences while exploring the wreck, leading to local legends about Algol being haunted.
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Legacy and Preservation: The ship serves as a living legacy to those who served aboard her, and her transformation into a reef has contributed to marine life and recreational diving, blending military history with environmental preservation.
