USS Caliente (AO-53)

USS Caliente (AO-53) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. Throughout World War II, she provided vital underway replenishment to combat ships in the Pacific theater, supporting major operations from the Marianas to Okinawa. After the war, Caliente continued her service during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supplying fuel to naval forces engaged in combat and patrol duties. Decommissioned in 1973, USS Caliente earned multiple battle stars for her distinguished service across three decades and several major conflicts.