USS CYBELE

• USS Cybele (AKS-10): The USS Cybele was a Castor-class general stores issue ship in the United States Navy, designated AKS-10. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Post-War Occupation Duties: After WWII, Cybele supported occupation forces in the Far East, making supply runs to Japan, Korea, and China. • Decommissioning and Fate: USS Cybele was decommissioned in 1946, struck from the Navy list in 1947, and eventually sold for scrapping in 1964. • Battle Star Award: For her service during WWII, Cybele earned one battle star, recognizing her participation in significant military operations. • 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.