About this Unit
USS Gallant (MSO-489) was an Agile-class minesweeper commissioned by the United States Navy in 1955. Designed for mine countermeasure operations, she served primarily in the Pacific, including deployments to the Western Pacific and operations during the Vietnam War, where she participated in "Operation Market Time" patrols. Gallant played a vital role in ensuring safe passage for allied vessels by detecting and clearing naval mines along critical waterways. After decades of dedicated service, she was decommissioned in 1994 and later sold for scrap.
Historical Facts
•
USS Gallant (MSO-489) Class: Gallant was an Agile-class minesweeper built for the United States Navy, designed for clearing naval mines to ensure safe passage for other vessels.
•
Launch and Commissioning: The ship was launched on 4 July 1953 by J. M. Martinac Shipbuilding Corp., Tacoma, Washington, and commissioned on 14 September 1955.
•
Non-Magnetic Construction: Like other Agile-class minesweepers, Gallant was constructed primarily of wood with non-magnetic metals to reduce the risk of detonating magnetic mines.
•
Pacific Fleet Service: The ship was based on the U.S. West Coast and conducted minesweeping exercises, training missions, and operations primarily in the Pacific Ocean.
•
Vietnam War Service: Gallant saw active service during the Vietnam War, including participation in Operation Market Time, patrolling for enemy supply vessels and mines along the Vietnamese coast.
•
Goodwill Visits: During her deployments, Gallant made goodwill visits to several ports in the Pacific, including stops in Japan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Taiwan, fostering international naval relations.
•
Rescue Operations: The ship occasionally assisted in maritime rescue operations, including helping distressed fishermen and other vessels in the South China Sea.
•
Decommissioning: USS Gallant was decommissioned on 29 March 1994 after nearly 40 years of service and was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on the same day.
•
Awards and Commendations: Gallant earned several awards during her service, including campaign ribbons for her Vietnam service and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.
•
International Transfer: After decommissioning, Gallant was transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy, where she continued to serve under a new name, extending her operational legacy.
