About this Unit
USS Mathews (AKA-96) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. She served in the final months of World War II, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to support Pacific operations. After the war, Mathews participated in occupation duties in the Far East before being decommissioned in 1946. She was recommissioned for service during the Korean War and later supported operations during the Vietnam War, before her final decommissioning in 1968.
Historical Facts
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USS Mathews (AKA-96) Namesake: The USS Mathews was named after Mathews County, Virginia, following the tradition of naming attack cargo ships after U.S. counties.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in March 1945, Mathews was deployed to the Pacific Theater where she transported cargo and troops supporting the final stages of World War II.
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Operation Magic Carpet: After Japan’s surrender, Mathews was assigned to “Operation Magic Carpet,” returning thousands of American service members home from the Pacific.
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Korean War Duty: Reactivated for the Korean War, she played a critical role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to the Korean Peninsula.
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Vietnam War Involvement: USS Mathews also served in the Vietnam War, providing vital logistical support, transporting troops, and delivering cargo during multiple deployments.
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Humanitarian Missions: The ship was involved in several peacetime and humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the Pacific.
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Amphibious Operations: As an attack cargo ship, Mathews was specially equipped to support amphibious assaults, carrying landing craft and vehicles for rapid deployment.
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Crew Nickname: The crew affectionately referred to the ship as “The Mighty Mathews,” highlighting their pride and camaraderie aboard the vessel.
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Final Decommissioning: After a long and distinguished career, the USS Mathews was decommissioned in 1968 and later sold for scrap, marking the end of her service.
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Awards and Honors: The ship earned multiple battle stars for her participation in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, reflecting her extensive and varied service.
