USS Denver (LPD-9)

• 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. • 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. • Vietnam War Service: Shortly after commissioning, USS Denver supported operations during the Vietnam War, participating in amphibious assaults and evacuations. • 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. • Humanitarian Missions: USS Denver was involved in numerous humanitarian missions, including rescuing Vietnamese boat people and providing disaster relief in the Pacific. • 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. • 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. • 2006 Collision: On July 13, 2006, Denver collided with the submarine USS Greeneville near Hawaii. Both vessels sustained damage, but there were no injuries. • Final Deployments: Denver’s last deployments included exercises and operations in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, including support for Operation Enduring Freedom. • 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.