About this Unit
USS Muliphen (AKA-61) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in July 1944. During World War II, she played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, participating in the Okinawa campaign by delivering troops, equipment, and supplies under hazardous combat conditions. After the war, Muliphen supported occupation forces in Japan and later took part in Operation Magic Carpet, returning American servicemen home. She continued to serve through the Korean War and various Cold War operations before being decommissioned in March 1968.
Historical Facts
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Named After a Star: USS Muliphen (AKA-61) was named after Muliphen, a star in the constellation Canis Major, following the tradition of naming attack cargo ships after celestial bodies.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in July 1944, Muliphen participated in several critical Pacific operations, including the assault and occupation of Okinawa, one of the bloodiest battles of the war.
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Operation Magic Carpet: After WWII, Muliphen was part of Operation Magic Carpet, transporting thousands of U.S. servicemen back home from overseas deployments.
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Korean War Duty: The ship was recommissioned for service during the Korean War, conducting supply and troop transport missions in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
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Arctic Operations: Muliphen participated in Arctic resupply missions for U.S. bases in Greenland, enduring harsh conditions and contributing to Cold War readiness.
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NASA Recovery Missions: The ship served as a recovery vessel for early NASA space missions, including standing by during the Mercury and Gemini programs in case of emergency splashdowns.
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Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat operations, Muliphen provided disaster relief and humanitarian assistance, including hurricane relief in the Caribbean.
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Multi-Service Crew: The ship often carried and collaborated with Marines, Army units, and Seabees, exemplifying inter-service cooperation in amphibious operations.
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Decommissioned and Fate: Muliphen was decommissioned in 1968 and struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1969. She was later sold for scrap, ending a distinguished 24-year career.
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Battle Stars: USS Muliphen earned two battle stars for her service in World War II, recognizing her significant contributions to Allied victory in the Pacific.
