USS Muliphen (AKA-61)

• 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. • 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. • Operation Magic Carpet: After WWII, Muliphen was part of Operation Magic Carpet, transporting thousands of U.S. servicemen back home from overseas deployments. • Korean War Duty: The ship was recommissioned for service during the Korean War, conducting supply and troop transport missions in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. • Arctic Operations: Muliphen participated in Arctic resupply missions for U.S. bases in Greenland, enduring harsh conditions and contributing to Cold War readiness. • 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. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat operations, Muliphen provided disaster relief and humanitarian assistance, including hurricane relief in the Caribbean. • Multi-Service Crew: The ship often carried and collaborated with Marines, Army units, and Seabees, exemplifying inter-service cooperation in amphibious operations. • 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. • 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.