About this Unit
USS Denver (LPD-9) was an Austin-class amphibious transport dock commissioned into the United States Navy in 1968. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous operations, including troop deployments during the Vietnam War and humanitarian missions such as Operation Fiery Vigil in the Philippines. USS Denver also supported peacekeeping and disaster relief efforts in the Asia-Pacific region, showcasing her versatility as an amphibious platform. After more than four decades of active duty, she was decommissioned in 2014, marking the end of a distinguished naval career.
Historical Facts
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Commissioning and Namesake: USS Denver (LPD-9) was commissioned on October 26, 1968. She was the third U.S. Navy ship named after the city of Denver, Colorado.
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Austin-Class Amphibious Transport Dock: Denver was an Austin-class amphibious transport dock, designed to transport and land Marines, their equipment, and supplies by embarked landing craft or amphibious vehicles.
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Vietnam War Service: Shortly after commissioning, USS Denver supported operations during the Vietnam War, participating in amphibious assaults and evacuations.
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Operation Frequent Wind: In April 1975, Denver played a key role in Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon at the end of the Vietnam War, helping to rescue thousands of refugees.
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Humanitarian Missions: USS Denver was involved in numerous humanitarian missions, including rescuing Vietnamese boat people and providing disaster relief in the Pacific.
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Gulf War Deployment: The ship participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, transporting Marines and equipment to the Persian Gulf in support of coalition operations.
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Longest-Serving LPD: By the time of her decommissioning, USS Denver held the distinction of being the oldest active LPD in the U.S. Navy.
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2006 Collision: On July 13, 2006, Denver collided with the submarine USS Greeneville near Hawaii. Both vessels sustained damage, but there were no injuries.
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Final Deployments: Denver’s last deployments included exercises and operations in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, including support for Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Decommissioning and Legacy: USS Denver was decommissioned on August 14, 2014, after nearly 46 years of service. She left a legacy of versatility and support in both combat and humanitarian missions.
