About this Unit
USS Mobile (LKA-115) was a Charleston-class amphibious cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1969. Designed to transport and land troops, equipment, and supplies in support of amphibious operations, she served extensively during the Vietnam War, providing logistical support and participating in major operations. Following Vietnam, USS Mobile continued to support U.S. military operations, including deployments to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. The ship remained active until her decommissioning in 1994, earning multiple commendations for her service before being scrapped.
Historical Facts
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Commissioning and Class: USS Mobile (LKA-115) was commissioned on 21 September 1969. It was a Charleston-class amphibious cargo ship, designed to transport and land supplies, equipment, and troops.
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Vietnam War Service: USS Mobile participated extensively in the Vietnam War, providing logistical support for U.S. forces and conducting numerous supply and troop transport missions to and from Vietnam.
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Operation Frequent Wind: In April 1975, USS Mobile took part in Operation Frequent Wind, the evacuation of Saigon, playing a key role in the final withdrawal of American personnel and at-risk Vietnamese.
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Humanitarian Missions: USS Mobile was involved in several humanitarian missions, including aiding Vietnamese refugees ("boat people") fleeing after the fall of Saigon in 1975.
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Gulf War Deployment: The ship supported Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, transporting Marines and their equipment to the Persian Gulf for the liberation of Kuwait.
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Naming: USS Mobile was named after the city of Mobile, Alabama, reflecting the Navy’s tradition of naming amphibious ships after American cities.
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Unique Nickname: The ship’s crew affectionately called her “The Mighty Mo,” not to be confused with the battleship USS Missouri (BB-63), which shared the same nickname.
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Global Deployments: Throughout its career, USS Mobile conducted deployments in the Western Pacific (WESTPAC), Indian Ocean, and participated in joint exercises with allied navies.
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Decommissioning: USS Mobile was decommissioned on 4 February 1994 after more than 24 years of service, and was later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, the ship was eventually sold for scrapping in 2006, ending her long and storied career.
