USS Algol (AKA-54)

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Awarded Battle Stars: For her service in World War II, USS Algol received two battle stars, recognizing her participation in key combat operations. • 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. • Decommissioning and the Reserve Fleet: Algol was decommissioned in 1946 and placed in the National Defense Reserve Fleet, where she remained for several years. • 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. • 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. • 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.