About this Unit
USS Menifee (APA-202) was a Haskell-class attack transport commissioned by the United States Navy in October 1944. During World War II, she played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, notably participating in the Okinawa campaign by landing troops and equipment under heavy enemy fire in April 1945. Following the war, Menifee assisted in occupation duties in Japan and China and helped transport returning veterans during Operation Magic Carpet. The ship was decommissioned in 1947 and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1968.
Historical Facts
• Namesake: USS Menifee (APA-202) was named after Menifee County, Kentucky, following the tradition of naming attack transports after counties in the United States.
• Class and Type: She was a Haskell-class attack transport, part of the Victory ship design, built specifically for amphibious warfare during World War II.
• Construction: Menifee was laid down on 21 July 1944 by the Kaiser Shipyards in Vancouver, Washington, and launched on 27 September 1944—a remarkably fast construction period typical for wartime needs.
• World War II Service: She participated in the pivotal Okinawa campaign, landing troops and equipment under threat from enemy air attacks and kamikazes in April 1945.
• Troop Transport: Throughout her service, Menifee carried thousands of troops, including the 7th Infantry Division, and vital supplies to the Pacific Theater.
• Operation Magic Carpet: After the war, Menifee took part in Operation Magic Carpet, the massive effort to bring American servicemen home from the Pacific.
• Korean War Service: Menifee was recommissioned for the Korean War, transporting Marines and Army units to and from combat zones, including Inchon and Pusan.
• Humanitarian Role: During her service, she also transported refugees, particularly during Korean War evacuations, showcasing the Navy’s role in humanitarian crises.
• Decommissioning and Fate: She was finally decommissioned in 1955 and remained in the reserve fleet until sold for scrap in 1973, marking nearly three decades of service and standby.
• Awards: For her service, USS Menifee earned one battle star for World War II and two battle stars for the Korean War, recognizing her contributions to major amphibious operations.
