About this Unit
The USS Brattleboro (EPCER-852) was originally laid down as a PCE-842-class patrol craft escort during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, she served primarily as a rescue and experimental vessel, designated as an Experimental Patrol Craft Escort Rescue (EPCER). Throughout her career, Brattleboro conducted various testing and training missions, supporting naval research and development efforts. After years of valuable service, she was decommissioned and struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1968, marking the end of her unique contributions to the U.S. Navy.
Historical Facts
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Unique Classification: The USS Brattleboro (EPCER-852) was an Experimental Patrol Craft Escort (Rescue), a rare classification in the US Navy, originally built as a PCE (Patrol Craft Escort) and later converted for experimental and medical roles.
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Namesake: The ship was named after Brattleboro, Vermont, following the US Navy tradition of naming patrol craft after US cities and towns.
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Construction and Launch: Built by Albina Engine & Machine Works in Portland, Oregon, she was launched on 17 June 1944 and commissioned on 4 October 1944.
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World War II Service: During World War II, the ship served as a rescue and escort vessel in the Pacific, providing medical aid and support during amphibious operations.
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Postwar Conversion: After WWII, she was converted into an experimental vessel (EPCER) and assigned to the Naval Research Laboratory, supporting research in sonar, anti-submarine warfare, and various medical experiments.
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Medical Innovations: The USS Brattleboro played a key role in developing and testing shipboard medical evacuation and treatment procedures, contributing to advances in naval medicine.
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Participation in Nuclear Tests: The ship took part in Operation Crossroads (1946), the atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll, assisting in monitoring radiation and medical effects.
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Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the vessel supported anti-submarine warfare research, helping the US Navy maintain technological superiority over Soviet submarines.
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Long Service Life: The USS Brattleboro served for over two decades, not decommissioned until 31 March 1968, marking a notably long service for a ship of her class.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, she was struck from the Naval Vessel Register and eventually sold for scrap, but her contributions to naval research and medicine are still noted in US Navy history.
