USS Cimarron (AO-22)

• 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.