USS Luzon (ARG-2)

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.