uss kankakee ao 39

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Decommissioning: USS Kankakee was decommissioned on 7 July 1970, after nearly three decades of distinguished service. • Final Fate: She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for scrap in 1975, ending her long naval career. • 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.