About this Unit
USS Kankakee (AO-39) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in December 1942. She provided vital underway replenishment of fuel and supplies to Allied ships during World War II, supporting operations in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. After World War II, Kankakee continued to serve through the Korean War and into the Cold War, ensuring the fleet’s operational readiness. She was decommissioned in January 1970, having played a crucial logistical role for nearly three decades of naval operations.
Historical Facts
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Launched in 1942: USS Kankakee (AO-39) was launched on 21 March 1942 by the Bethlehem Steel Company in Sparrows Point, Maryland, during the height of World War II.
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Cimarron-class Oiler: She was one of the Cimarron-class oilers, designed to rapidly refuel ships at sea, which was a crucial support role for the U.S. Navy during long campaigns.
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Service in World War II: Kankakee supported both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, providing vital fuel supplies for warships involved in major operations such as the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and Normandy.
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Operation Torch: In November 1942, Kankakee participated in Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa, helping to sustain naval operations off the Moroccan coast.
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Survived U-boat Threats: While operating in the Atlantic, Kankakee regularly faced threats from German U-boats, highlighting the danger faced even by support vessels.
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Pacific Campaigns: After service in the Atlantic, she moved to the Pacific and supported the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, often refueling ships under hazardous conditions.
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Post-War Service: Following World War II, Kankakee continued to serve during the Korean War and throughout the early Cold War, reflecting the ongoing need for fleet oilers.
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Decommissioning: USS Kankakee was decommissioned on 7 July 1970, after nearly three decades of distinguished service.
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Final Fate: She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for scrap in 1975, ending her long naval career.
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Awards: Kankakee received four battle stars for her World War II service and two for her Korean War service, a testament to her crew's dedication and the ship's important role in naval history.
