About this Unit
USS Isle Royale (AD-29) was a Shenandoah-class destroyer tender commissioned by the United States Navy in 1946. Designed to provide repair and logistical support to destroyers and other small warships, she operated primarily in the Pacific, including deployments to Pearl Harbor and the Far East during the post-World War II era and the Korean War. Isle Royale played a crucial role in maintaining fleet readiness by performing repairs and supplying necessary equipment and parts. Decommissioned in 1970, she was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for scrap in 1975.
Historical Facts
•
Namesake: USS Isle Royale (AD-29) was named after Isle Royale, the largest island in Lake Superior, which is now a national park known for its wildlife and scenic beauty.
•
Class: She was a Klondike-class destroyer tender, designed to provide maintenance and logistical support to destroyers and other small warships.
•
Launch and Commissioning: Isle Royale was launched on September 19, 1945, by the Todd Pacific Shipyards in Seattle, Washington, but was not commissioned until March 9, 1946, after the end of World War II.
•
Post-WWII Role: Although completed too late to serve in World War II, USS Isle Royale played a significant role in the immediate postwar period, helping to support the US fleet during peacetime operations.
•
Pacific Service: The ship spent much of her career based out of San Diego, California, and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, providing repair and supply services to the Pacific Fleet.
•
Korean War Support: During the Korean War, Isle Royale deployed to the Far East, servicing ships at Yokosuka, Japan, and at times at Sasebo, helping keep US and allied vessels operational during the conflict.
•
Notable Repairs: The vessel was capable of handling complex repairs, including engine overhauls and weapon system maintenance, making her a floating shipyard and vital support asset.
•
Decommissionings: The ship was decommissioned for the first time on September 30, 1950, but was recommissioned less than a year later due to increased fleet needs during the Korean War.
•
Humanitarian Aid: In addition to military duties, Isle Royale participated in goodwill missions and provided humanitarian assistance during her deployments in the Pacific region.
•
Final Fate: After decades of service, USS Isle Royale was finally decommissioned on March 21, 1970, and was struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1974. The ship was later sold for scrap in 1975, ending her long and varied career.
