USS Durham (LKA-114)

• 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. • Class and Type: The ship was a Charleston-class amphibious cargo ship, specifically designed to carry troops, cargo, and landing craft for amphibious operations. • Commissioning: USS Durham was commissioned on 24 May 1969, during the height of the Vietnam War, at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Decommissioning: USS Durham was decommissioned on 25 February 1994, after nearly 25 years of service to the U.S. Navy. • 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. • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat roles, USS Durham also participated in humanitarian missions, including transporting refugees and providing disaster relief in the Pacific region. • 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.