About this Unit
USS Ashtabula (AO-51) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. Serving in World War II, she played a crucial role in fueling ships during key Pacific campaigns, including the invasions of the Philippines and Okinawa. The Ashtabula continued her vital logistics mission through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, ensuring sustained naval operations. After decades of service, she was decommissioned in 1982 and later sunk as a target during fleet training exercises in 2000.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Ashtabula (AO-51) was named after the Ashtabula River in Ohio, continuing the Navy tradition of naming oilers after rivers in the United States.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in 1943, Ashtabula played a vital logistics role during World War II, supplying fuel to warships in the Pacific, supporting operations at locations such as Ulithi, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa.
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Kamikaze Attack: On 18 January 1945, while off Ulithi Atoll, Ashtabula survived a kamikaze attack. The plane crashed near the ship, but only minor damage was sustained, and she continued operations.
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Rebuilt After Fire: In October 1944, the ship suffered a significant fire when a gasoline barge exploded alongside her at Ulithi, causing heavy damage and casualties. After repairs, she returned to duty, showcasing the resilience of her crew and shipyard workers.
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Korean War Support: Ashtabula also served during the Korean War, refueling ships of the 7th Fleet and supporting operations off the Korean Peninsula.
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Vietnam War Service: The ship saw extensive service in the Vietnam War, supporting U.S. Navy operations with underway replenishment of fuel and stores for combat and support vessels.
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Jumboization: In 1968, Ashtabula underwent “jumboization” at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, where a new 400-foot midsection was installed, increasing her capacity and extending her service life.
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Longest Serving Oiler: By the time of her decommissioning in 1982, Ashtabula was one of the longest-serving oilers in the U.S. Navy, with nearly 40 years of continuous service.
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Multiple Battle Stars: The ship earned several battle stars for her service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, recognizing her vital contributions in multiple conflicts.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, Ashtabula was used as a target and sunk during a fleet training exercise off Hawaii in October 2000, ending her long and distinguished career.
