About this Unit
**USS Cybele (AKS-10)** was a **Acubens-class general stores issue ship** commissioned by the United States Navy during World War II. Launched in 1944, Cybele served primarily in the Pacific Theater, delivering vital supplies and provisions to fleet units and shore bases in support of Allied operations. She played a crucial logistical role during the final phases of the war, supplying ships involved in the Philippines campaign and the Okinawa invasion. After the Japanese surrender, USS Cybele continued her service by supporting occupation forces before being decommissioned in 1946.
Historical Facts
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USS Cybele (AKS-10): The USS Cybele was a Castor-class general stores issue ship in the United States Navy, designated AKS-10.
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Originally Launched as SS William Hackett: The ship was originally built as a Liberty ship named SS William Hackett in 1944, before being acquired and renamed by the Navy.
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World War II Service: USS Cybele played a crucial logistical role in the Pacific Theater during WWII, supplying frontline ships and bases with essential materials.
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Supporting the Okinawa Campaign: During the battle for Okinawa, Cybele delivered supplies under challenging and often dangerous conditions, contributing to the success of one of the war’s largest amphibious assaults.
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Conversion to Navy Service: After acquisition, the ship underwent conversion at the Tampa Shipbuilding Co., receiving specialized equipment for her new mission as a general stores ship.
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Named after a Mythological Goddess: The ship was named "Cybele," after the ancient Phrygian goddess associated with fertility and nature, in keeping with the Navy tradition of naming stores ships after mythological figures.
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Post-War Occupation Duties: After WWII, Cybele supported occupation forces in the Far East, making supply runs to Japan, Korea, and China.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Cybele was decommissioned in 1946, struck from the Navy list in 1947, and eventually sold for scrapping in 1964.
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Battle Star Award: For her service during WWII, Cybele earned one battle star, recognizing her participation in significant military operations.
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Legacy of the Crew: The sailors aboard the USS Cybele exemplified the often unsung heroism of logistics personnel, ensuring that frontline forces remained supplied and operational throughout critical campaigns.
