About this Unit
USS Chara (AKA-58) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. During World War II, she participated in several key Pacific operations, including the invasions of Leyte, Lingayen Gulf, and Okinawa, delivering troops and cargo under combat conditions. After the war, Chara supported occupation forces in Japan and later saw service during the Korean War, providing vital logistical support for United Nations forces. She continued to serve in various capacities until decommissioning in 1969, earning multiple battle stars for her distinguished service.
Historical Facts
• Commissioning and Class: USS Chara (AKA-58) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship, commissioned by the United States Navy on 14 December 1944.
• WWII Service: Chara played a critical role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in the Iwo Jima and Okinawa invasions, delivering troops, equipment, and supplies under fire.
• Origin of Name: The ship was named after the star Chara in the constellation Canes Venatici, following the U.S. Navy's tradition of naming attack cargo ships after celestial bodies.
• Kamikaze Encounter: While operating off Okinawa in 1945, Chara was subjected to frequent kamikaze attacks, but survived without major damage, thanks to her crew’s skillful defense.
• Postwar Service: After WWII, the Chara assisted in occupation duties in Japan and China, helping to transport troops and equipment during the initial phases of the Allied occupation.
• Korean War Involvement: Recommissioned in 1951 for the Korean War, Chara transported troops and cargo, supporting UN forces during the conflict and earning battle stars for her service.
• Vietnam War Role: Chara also served during the Vietnam War, providing crucial logistical support in the early years of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia.
• Conversion to Ammunition Ship: In 1966, Chara was reclassified as an ammunition ship (AE-31), reflecting her new specialized role in supplying munitions at sea.
• Battle Stars and Honors: Over her career, USS Chara earned a total of 6 battle stars for her service in World War II, 1 for the Korean War, and 5 for operations during the Vietnam War.
• Final Fate: Decommissioned in 1969, Chara was eventually scrapped in 1981, ending a distinguished career spanning three major conflicts and more than two decades of service.
