About this Unit
USS Neosho (AO-143) was a Neosho-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1954. Designed to support underway replenishment operations, Neosho played a crucial role in refueling ships at sea, enhancing the Navy's global reach during the Cold War. The vessel participated in numerous exercises and deployments, including Mediterranean and Atlantic operations, supporting both peacetime and crisis response missions. After decades of distinguished service, USS Neosho was decommissioned in 1992 and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.
Historical Facts
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Fleet Oiler Legacy: USS Neosho (AO-143) was a Neosho-class fleet oiler, commissioned in 1954, designed to provide underway replenishment of fuel to US Navy ships, extending their operational range and endurance at sea.
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Named After a Predecessor: She was the fourth Navy ship to bear the name "Neosho," following a tradition that honors the original USS Neosho, a Civil War-era river gunboat.
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Cold War Workhorse: AO-143 played a critical logistical role during the Cold War, supporting both the Atlantic and Mediterranean fleets and participating in numerous NATO exercises.
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Innovative Replenishment System: Neosho was equipped with advanced underway replenishment gear for her time, allowing her to refuel multiple ships simultaneously while underway—vital during fleet operations.
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Lebanon Crisis 1958: She supported the US naval response during the Lebanon Crisis, supplying fuel and logistics to ships enforcing stability in the region.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: Neosho played a behind-the-scenes but essential role during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, keeping the US naval quarantine force supplied and operational.
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Vietnam War Support: Although primarily based in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, Neosho made deployments to support operations related to the Vietnam War, showcasing her global reach.
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Transition to Military Sealift Command: In 1978, Neosho was decommissioned from the active Navy and transferred to the Military Sealift Command, becoming USNS Neosho (T-AO-143) and operated by a civilian crew.
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Long Service Life: She served for over 36 years before being taken out of service in 1992, a testament to her robust design and importance in fleet logistics.
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Final Fate: After deactivation, USNS Neosho was struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1994 and was eventually scrapped, but her service record remains a point of pride among her former crew and naval historians.
