USS Moctobi (ATF-105)

• 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. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Korean War Duties: During the Korean War, Moctobi towed ships between Japan and Korea, salvaged ships in distress, and supported United Nations naval forces. • 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. • 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. • 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. • Transferred to Mexico: After decommissioning, Moctobi was sold to Mexico in 1978, where she served as ARM Yucatán (B-08) in the Mexican Navy. • 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.