About this Unit
USS Chikaskia (AO-54) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in December 1943. She provided critical refueling support to warships during World War II, particularly in the Pacific Theater, enabling carrier task forces to maintain operations far from port. Following World War II, Chikaskia continued to serve through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supplying fuel and logistical support to naval forces. After decades of distinguished service, she was decommissioned in 1970 and eventually sold for scrap.
Historical Facts
•
Fleet Oiler of the Cimarron Class: USS Chikaskia (AO-54) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler, a vital logistics vessel designed to refuel warships at sea and keep the U.S. Navy operational during long deployments.
•
Named After a River: The ship was named after the Chikaskia River, which flows through Kansas and Oklahoma, following the tradition of naming oilers after American rivers.
•
World War II Service: Commissioned in December 1943, Chikaskia played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, supporting carrier task forces during the island-hopping campaigns against Japan.
•
Survived Typhoon Cobra: In December 1944, Chikaskia endured Typhoon Cobra, a violent storm that sank three U.S. destroyers and damaged many others. Despite the chaos, she survived with minimal damage.
•
Refueled Fleet at Iwo Jima and Okinawa: The oiler was instrumental in refueling ships during the intense battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, allowing the fleet to maintain pressure on Japanese forces.
•
Korean War Service: After WWII, Chikaskia was recommissioned for the Korean War, once again providing logistical support to U.S. and United Nations naval forces.
•
Vietnam War Operations: The ship also served in the Vietnam War, delivering fuel to the Seventh Fleet and supporting operations off the coast of Vietnam.
•
Longevity: Chikaskia had an exceptionally long career, serving from 1943 until her final decommissioning in 1970, a testament to her design and operational importance.
•
Military Decorations: She earned eight battle stars for her service in World War II and two more for her Korean War service.
•
Final Fate: After decades of service, USS Chikaskia was struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1976 and sold for scrap in 1980, marking the end of her distinguished career.
