About this Unit
USS Moctobi (ATF-105) was an Abnaki-class fleet ocean tug commissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1944. Serving during the final year of World War II, she provided critical towing, salvage, and rescue services across the Pacific Theater, including support for the Okinawa campaign. After the war, Moctobi continued her vital support roles during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, assisting in fleet operations and emergency salvage missions. The vessel remained in service until her decommissioning in 1978, earning several commendations for her dedicated service across multiple conflicts.
Historical Facts
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USS Moctobi (ATF-105) was an Abnaki-class fleet ocean tug: Launched on 10 October 1943 and commissioned on 14 July 1944, she served as a powerful ocean-going tug designed to assist warships and tow ships and barges.
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World War II Service: Moctobi was actively involved in the Pacific theater, providing towing services for damaged vessels, salvaging operations, and supporting amphibious assaults in the Marianas, Philippines, and Okinawa.
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Survived Typhoon Louise (1945): In October 1945, Moctobi helped rescue and tow ships that had run aground or been damaged during the devastating Typhoon Louise at Okinawa, showcasing her crew’s bravery and seamanship.
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Participated in Operation Crossroads (1946): Moctobi played a support role in the atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll, towing target ships into position and assisting with post-test recovery operations.
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Korean War Duties: During the Korean War, Moctobi towed ships between Japan and Korea, salvaged ships in distress, and supported United Nations naval forces.
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Vietnam War Service: The tug provided essential towing and salvage support for U.S. Navy operations during the Vietnam War, including moving barges and assisting damaged ships.
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Assisted in the Apollo Space Program: Moctobi was one of the vessels on station during Apollo missions, ready to recover spacecraft and support NASA’s recovery operations.
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Long Service Life: The ship served the U.S. Navy for over 30 years, from World War II through the Vietnam era, before being decommissioned in 1978.
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Transferred to Mexico: After decommissioning, Moctobi was sold to Mexico in 1978, where she served as ARM Yucatán (B-08) in the Mexican Navy.
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Awards and Honors: USS Moctobi earned multiple campaign medals, including three battle stars for World War II, two for the Korean War, and several commendations for her dedicated service.
