About this Unit
USS Cree (ATF-84) was a Cherokee-class fleet tug commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. Serving during World War II, Cree provided critical towing, salvage, and rescue operations across the Pacific theater, supporting major campaigns such as the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The vessel continued its service through the Korean War and into the Vietnam War, adapting to a variety of missions including target towing and recovery operations. After a distinguished career spanning over three decades, USS Cree was decommissioned in 1978, leaving a legacy of versatile and dedicated naval support.
Historical Facts
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World War II Service: USS Cree (ATF-84) was a Cherokee-class fleet tug commissioned in 1943 and served extensively in the Pacific Theater during World War II, supporting amphibious operations and salvage missions.
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Invasion of Okinawa: During the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, USS Cree performed hazardous salvage and firefighting duties, often under enemy air attack, earning a Navy Unit Commendation for her crew's bravery.
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Korean War Operations: The ship was reactivated for the Korean War and provided critical towing and rescue services, supporting United Nations naval forces in the region.
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Operation Castle Bravo: In 1954, USS Cree participated in Operation Castle, a series of high-yield nuclear weapon tests in the Marshall Islands, providing logistical support to the test teams.
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Cold War Missions: Throughout the Cold War, she was involved in various fleet exercises, salvage operations, and tows along the U.S. West Coast, Pacific, and Far East.
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Notable Rescue: In 1957, USS Cree assisted in the high-profile salvage operation of the destroyer USS Frank Knox (DDR-742), which ran aground on Pratas Reef in the South China Sea.
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Unique Design: As a Cherokee-class tug, Cree was equipped with heavy-duty salvage gear, firefighting equipment, and powerful towing winches, making her one of the most capable fleet tugs of her era.
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Vietnam War Service: USS Cree was active during the Vietnam War, providing essential towing, salvage, and rescue services to U.S. Navy vessels supporting combat operations off Vietnam.
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Longevity and Service Life: USS Cree served the U.S. Navy for more than three decades, from 1943 until her decommissioning in 1978, a testament to her durability and versatility.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, USS Cree was sunk as a target during RIMPAC 1988 exercises, ending her long and distinguished career with one last service to the Navy as a training asset.
