About this Unit
USS Luzon (ARG-2) was an internal combustion engine repair ship of the United States Navy, commissioned in May 1944 during World War II. Originally laid down as the Liberty ship SS J. Fred Essary, she was converted to serve as a vital support vessel, providing repair services to the fleet in the Pacific theater. Luzon played a critical role in maintaining the operational readiness of Allied naval forces during campaigns in the Philippines and Okinawa. After the war, she continued to serve in the Western Pacific until her decommissioning in 1947.
Historical Facts
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Origins as a Passenger Liner: USS Luzon (ARG-2) began her life as the passenger ship SS Ozaukee, built in 1917 by the American Ship Building Company for the United States Shipping Board.
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World War II Conversion: The ship was acquired by the U.S. Navy in 1943 and converted into an internal combustion engine repair ship, being commissioned as USS Luzon (ARG-2) on April 26, 1944.
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Namesake Significance: USS Luzon was named after Luzon, the largest and most populous island in the Philippines, reflecting the strategic importance of the Pacific theater during WWII.
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Vital Repair Role: As a repair ship, Luzon provided critical maintenance and repair services to landing crafts, patrol boats, and other ships during the Pacific island-hopping campaigns.
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Service in Leyte Gulf: Luzon operated extensively at Leyte Gulf, supporting the massive Allied invasion and subsequent operations to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation.
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Surviving Typhoon Cobra: In December 1944, Luzon and her crew survived the deadly Typhoon Cobra, which caused the loss of three destroyers and 790 men from the U.S. Third Fleet.
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Kamikaze Threats: While stationed in forward areas, Luzon and her crew were always under threat from enemy air attacks, including kamikaze assaults, although she escaped direct hits.
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Post-War Occupation Support: After Japan's surrender, Luzon was stationed at Okinawa and then in Japanese waters, providing repair services to occupation forces and helping restore order in the region.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Luzon was decommissioned on July 18, 1947, and struck from the Navy List in 1961. She was eventually sold for scrapping, ending her long and varied career.
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Battle Star Awarded: For her service during World War II, USS Luzon earned one battle star, recognizing her vital contribution to the Allied victory in the Pacific.
