USS Noxabee aog 56

• Commissioning and Class: USS Noxubee (AOG-56) was a Patapsco-class gasoline tanker, commissioned into the United States Navy on 10 October 1945. • Name Origin: The ship was named after the Noxubee River in Mississippi, continuing the Navy tradition of naming gasoline tankers after American rivers with Native American names. • World War II Service: Although commissioned too late to see combat in World War II, Noxubee served in the immediate postwar era, supporting occupation forces and naval operations. • Korean War Deployments: During the Korean War, USS Noxubee was actively involved in transporting fuel to U.S. and allied forces in the Pacific, contributing to the logistical backbone of military operations. • Vietnam War Operations: Noxubee made several deployments to Vietnam, delivering much-needed aviation gasoline, diesel fuel, and lubricating oil to forward bases and ships, often operating in hazardous combat zones. • Rescued Crew Members: In 1967, while operating off the coast of Vietnam, Noxubee participated in search and rescue missions, saving the lives of several stranded sailors and airmen. • Notable Incident: In 1970, a serious fire broke out aboard the ship while loading fuel at Da Nang, Vietnam. The crew managed to contain the fire, preventing a catastrophic explosion and earning commendations for bravery. • Decommissioning and Fate: USS Noxubee was decommissioned in 1975 and struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1975. She was later transferred to the Dominican Republic, where she served as a fuel ship. • Awards and Honors: The ship received multiple campaign and service medals for her Vietnam War service, including the Vietnam Service Medal with several campaign stars. • Unique Crew Camaraderie: Former crew members of USS Noxubee have held reunions and maintain an active association, sharing stories of perilous fuel runs, close calls, and the unique challenges of serving on a small, vital tanker.