USS Cavalier (APA-37)

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About USS Cavalier (APA-37)

USS Cavalier (APA-37) was a Bayfield-class attack transport commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. She played a vital role in World War II, participating in key amphibious operations in the Pacific, including the invasions of Leyte, Luzon, and Okinawa. After the war, Cavalier assisted in occupation duties in Japan and later supported troop movements during the Korean War. She continued to serve with the Pacific Fleet until her decommissioning in 1968, earning multiple battle stars for her service.

Unit Members

Gary Thomas

U.S. Navy

USS Cavalier (APA-37)View Profile

John Morell

U.S. Navy

USS Cavalier (APA-37)View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About USS Cavalier (APA-37)

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Namesake: USS Cavalier (APA-37) was named after Cavalier County, North Dakota, and the Cavalier, a term referencing a mounted soldier or knight. • Class: She was a Bayfield-class attack transport, designed to carry troops and their equipment for amphibious assaults. • Laid Down: USS Cavalier was laid down on 15 December 1942 by the Western Pipe & Steel Company in San Francisco, California. • World War II Service: She participated in several major Pacific campaigns, including the invasions of Saipan, Leyte, Luzon, and Okinawa. • Troop Landings: During the Battle of Saipan, Cavalier landed elements of the US Marine Corps and US Army under hostile fire, contributing to the island's capture. • Kamikaze Attack: On 30 January 1945, while off Luzon, Cavalier was struck by a Japanese torpedo, causing significant damage and casualties, but she remained afloat and under tow. • Post-War Duties: After WWII, she participated in Operation Magic Carpet, returning veterans and liberated prisoners of war home from the Pacific. • Korean War: The ship was recommissioned for the Korean War, where she transported troops and equipment to support United Nations operations on the Korean Peninsula. • Vietnam Service: USS Cavalier also saw service during the Vietnam War, acting as a transport and supply ship for American forces in Southeast Asia. • Decommissioning: After a long and distinguished career, the USS Cavalier was decommissioned on 30 September 1968 and eventually sold for scrap in 1969.