About this Unit
USS Durham (LKA-114) was a Charleston-class amphibious cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1969. Named after the city of Durham, North Carolina, the ship played a significant role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies during the Vietnam War. Throughout her service, USS Durham participated in numerous exercises and operations, including humanitarian missions and supporting U.S. military interests in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. She was decommissioned in 1994 after 25 years of distinguished service.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Durham (LKA-114) was named after Durham, North Carolina, continuing the tradition of naming attack cargo ships after U.S. counties or cities.
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Class and Type: The ship was a Charleston-class amphibious cargo ship, specifically designed to carry troops, cargo, and landing craft for amphibious operations.
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Commissioning: USS Durham was commissioned on 24 May 1969, during the height of the Vietnam War, at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
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Vietnam War Service: The ship participated in multiple deployments to the Western Pacific and provided vital support during the Vietnam War, including transporting Marines and equipment to combat zones.
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Operation Frequent Wind: USS Durham played a significant role in Operation Frequent Wind in April 1975, the evacuation of Saigon, assisting in the evacuation of thousands of American and Vietnamese civilians as South Vietnam fell.
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Gulf War Involvement: The ship was deployed during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, transporting Marines and equipment to the Persian Gulf in 1990–1991.
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Decommissioning: USS Durham was decommissioned on 25 February 1994, after nearly 25 years of service to the U.S. Navy.
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Final Disposition: After years in reserve, the ship was sunk as a target during a live-fire exercise in 2020, providing realistic training for U.S. and allied forces.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat roles, USS Durham also participated in humanitarian missions, including transporting refugees and providing disaster relief in the Pacific region.
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Battle Honors: The ship earned multiple campaign stars for its service during the Vietnam War, testament to its significant contributions during a critical period in U.S. military history.
