About this Unit
USS Cimarron (AO-22) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in March 1939. Serving extensively during World War II, she played a critical logistical role in the Pacific Theater, supplying fuel to warships during major operations including the Battles of Midway, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa. Cimarron's efficiency and resilience under threat earned her twelve battle stars for her wartime service. After the war, she continued to support naval operations during the Korean War before being decommissioned in 1965.
Historical Facts
•
Class & Type: USS Cimarron (AO-22) was the lead ship of the Cimarron-class oilers, designed to supply fuel to naval vessels at sea.
•
Construction: She was launched by Sun Shipbuilding & Drydock Company in Chester, Pennsylvania on January 7, 1939, and commissioned on March 20, 1939.
•
Pearl Harbor Survivor: USS Cimarron was present at Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, but escaped damage and immediately began fueling ships in the aftermath.
•
Vital Logistics Role: Throughout World War II, Cimarron played a crucial role in sustaining the Pacific Fleet by refueling warships during major operations, including the Battles of the Coral Sea, Midway, and Leyte Gulf.
•
Record-Setting Operations: During the war, Cimarron set records for the amount of fuel delivered at sea, sometimes refueling entire task forces in dangerous combat zones.
•
Kamikaze Threats: While participating in the Okinawa campaign, Cimarron and her crew endured frequent kamikaze attacks but managed to avoid serious damage.
•
Post-War Service: After World War II, Cimarron continued to support U.S. Navy operations during the Korean War, again supplying fuel to ships operating far from friendly ports.
•
Longevity: Incredibly, Cimarron served for over 30 years, only being decommissioned in 1968 after decades of active service through three major conflicts.
•
Awards: USS Cimarron earned 10 battle stars for her service in World War II and 5 battle stars for the Korean War, marking her as one of the most decorated oilers in U.S. Navy history.
•
Legacy: The Cimarron-class set the standard for fast fleet oilers, and the name "Cimarron" was used for subsequent Navy oilers, reflecting the original ship's historic impact on naval logistics.
