About this Unit
USS INFLICT (MSO-456) was an Aggressive-class ocean minesweeper of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1954. Designed for clearing naval mines to ensure safe passage for allied vessels, she served primarily in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, participating in numerous exercises and operations during the Cold War. The ship was notable for her involvement in mine countermeasure activities and joint NATO exercises, contributing to fleet readiness and maritime security. After decades of service, USS INFLICT was decommissioned in 1990 and subsequently struck from the Naval Vessel Register.
Historical Facts
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USS Inflict (MSO-456) was an Agile-class minesweeper of the United States Navy, purpose-built for detecting and clearing naval mines to ensure safe waterways for military and commercial vessels.
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She was launched on 16 July 1953 by Wilmington Boat Works in Wilmington, California, and commissioned on 11 May 1954.
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The ship’s hull was constructed primarily of wood and non-magnetic materials to minimize the risk of detonating magnetic mines—a key feature of her class.
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During the Vietnam War, USS Inflict participated in “Operation Market Time,” patrolling the South Vietnamese coast to interdict the supply of arms and material by sea to Viet Cong forces.
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In addition to her Vietnam service, the Inflict conducted minesweeping exercises and training missions along the U.S. West Coast, Hawaii, and in the Western Pacific, helping to maintain readiness against potential threats.
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She earned three battle stars for her service during the Vietnam War, recognizing her crew’s dedication and the vessel’s contribution to naval operations in the region.
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In 1972, USS Inflict was a participant in the Clear Passage operations, helping to clear mines from Haiphong Harbor following the end of major hostilities.
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The ship was known for her close-knit crew and camaraderie, often hosting “steel beach” barbecues on deck during long deployments to maintain morale.
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After nearly four decades of service, USS Inflict was decommissioned on 30 March 1990 and later sold for scrap, marking the end of her distinguished naval career.
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The legacy of USS Inflict (MSO-456) lives on through veterans’ reunions and the preservation of her history by former crew members, who maintain records, photographs, and stories of their time aboard the ship.
