About this Unit
USS Okanogan (APA-220) was a Haskell-class attack transport commissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1944. She served prominently during World War II, participating in the assault and occupation of Okinawa, where she landed troops and cargo under combat conditions. After the war, Okanogan was active in Operation Magic Carpet, returning American servicemen from the Pacific. She later saw extensive service during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, transporting troops and supplies, before being decommissioned in 1970.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Okanogan (APA-220) was named after Okanogan County in Washington State, following the tradition of naming Haskell-class attack transports after counties in the United States.
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Haskell-Class Attack Transport: She was one of the 117 Haskell-class attack transports built for the U.S. Navy during World War II, designed to carry troops and their equipment for amphibious assaults.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in December 1944, USS Okanogan participated in the final phases of World War II, including transporting replacement troops and cargo to the Pacific war zones.
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Okinawa Campaign: Okanogan played a critical role in the Okinawa campaign, landing troops and supplies under threat of enemy air attacks and kamikaze raids in April 1945.
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Operation Magic Carpet: After World War II, Okanogan was assigned to Operation Magic Carpet, repatriating thousands of American servicemen from the Pacific back to the United States.
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Korean War Action: Reactivated for the Korean War, Okanogan transported troops and equipment to support UN forces, participating in the Inchon landings and other key amphibious operations.
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Vietnam War Support: USS Okanogan served during the Vietnam War, carrying Marines and Army units to and from Vietnam, and supporting amphibious operations along the coast.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat roles, Okanogan was involved in humanitarian missions, such as evacuating refugees and civilians during various crises in Asia.
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Decorations: The ship received several awards for her service, including battle stars for World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Okanogan was decommissioned in 1970 and struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1976. She was eventually sold for scrapping, ending her long and distinguished service.
