About this Unit
USS Liberty (AGTR-5) was a Belmont-class technical research ship (a converted World War II Victory ship) operated by the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1964, she was tasked with intelligence-gathering and electronic surveillance missions during the Cold War. On June 8, 1967, during the Six-Day War, Liberty was attacked by Israeli air and naval forces in international waters, resulting in 34 American deaths and over 170 wounded. The incident, later described as a case of mistaken identity by Israel, remains a subject of controversy and debate within military and diplomatic circles.
Historical Facts
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USS Liberty (AGTR-5) was a technical research ship: Originally a World War II Liberty ship, she was converted into a United States Navy technical research ship (essentially a spy ship) and commissioned in 1964.
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The ship was attacked during the Six-Day War: On June 8, 1967, while in international waters in the Eastern Mediterranean, USS Liberty was attacked by Israeli Air Force jet fighters and Navy motor torpedo boats.
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Significant casualties and damage: The attack killed 34 crew members (naval officers, seamen, two Marines, and a civilian) and wounded 171. The ship was severely damaged but did not sink.
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Controversy surrounds the attack: Israel stated the attack was a case of mistaken identity, believing the ship to be an Egyptian vessel. Many survivors and some U.S. officials have long disputed this explanation.
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One of the most decorated Navy ships for a single engagement: The crew of the Liberty received one Medal of Honor, two Navy Crosses, 12 Silver Stars, 20 Bronze Stars, and over 200 Purple Hearts.
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Heroic actions by the crew: Despite being badly damaged and under fire, the crew managed to keep the ship afloat. Chief Engineer George Golden and Communications Technician Chief Wayne Smith were particularly noted for their heroism.
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Captain William L. McGonagle received the Medal of Honor: The ship’s commanding officer was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary leadership and bravery during and after the attack.
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The ship’s SOS was initially jammed: The Israelis reportedly jammed the ship’s distress frequencies during the attack, delaying rescue efforts and compounding the crisis.
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Diplomatic consequences: The incident strained U.S.–Israeli relations, though both governments later reaffirmed their alliance. The U.S. accepted Israel’s explanation and compensation was paid to victims’ families.
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End of the USS Liberty: After the attack, the ship was deemed unsalvageable and decommissioned in 1968. Her wreck was sold for scrap the following year.
