About this Unit
USS Patapsco (AOG-1) was a Patapsco-class gasoline tanker commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. During World War II, she played a crucial role transporting gasoline and other petroleum products to warships and remote naval bases in the Pacific Theater, often operating under hazardous conditions. Following the war, Patapsco continued her service during the Korean War, supporting United Nations forces by delivering fuel to forward areas. The ship remained active through various peacetime and conflict operations until she was finally decommissioned in 1974.
Historical Facts
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First of Her Class: USS Patapsco (AOG-1) was the lead ship of the Patapsco-class gasoline tankers, designed to carry fuel to warships and remote naval stations during World War II.
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Named After a River: The ship was named after the Patapsco River in Maryland, a tradition for U.S. Navy gasoline tankers to bear river names.
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World War II Service: Commissioned in 1943, Patapsco played a vital role supplying fuel in the Pacific Theater, including support for operations in the Solomon Islands and the Philippines.
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Atomic Age Witness: She was present at Operation Crossroads in 1946, the first postwar nuclear weapon tests at Bikini Atoll, supplying fuel and support to the operation.
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Korean War Veteran: Reactivated for the Korean War, Patapsco provided critical fuel supplies to UN forces at various ports, including Pusan and Inchon.
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Vietnam War Duty: Patapsco continued her service into the Vietnam War, supporting U.S. Navy and allied operations by delivering fuel to bases in Southeast Asia.
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Unique Cargo: Beyond gasoline, the ship also carried lubricating oil and diesel, sometimes under hazardous conditions due to volatile cargo and enemy threats.
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Multiple Awards: For her service, USS Patapsco received several battle stars—two for World War II, one for the Korean War, and one for Vietnam.
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Post-Navy Career: After decommissioning in 1974, Patapsco was sold into civilian service and eventually converted into a fishing vessel named Arctic Storm.
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Still Afloat as Arctic Storm: Remarkably, as of the 21st century, the former USS Patapsco (as Arctic Storm) continues to operate in the North Pacific as a factory trawler—making her one of the longest-serving ships of her kind.
