About this Unit
USS PAUL REVERE (LPA-248) was a Paul Revere-class attack transport commissioned by the United States Navy in 1958. Originally built as a civilian ship, she was converted to serve as an amphibious assault vessel, tasked with transporting troops, equipment, and landing craft for amphibious operations. Throughout her service, PAUL REVERE played a significant role in the Pacific, particularly during the Vietnam War, where she participated in multiple troop landings and support operations. After years of active duty, she was decommissioned in 1980 and subsequently struck from the Naval Vessel Register.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Paul Revere (LPA-248) was named after the American patriot Paul Revere, famous for his midnight ride during the American Revolution.
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Class and Role: She was the lead ship of the Paul Revere-class amphibious transport ships, designed to carry troops and landing craft for amphibious assaults.
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Commissioning: Originally built as the civilian ship SS Diamond Mariner in 1952, she was acquired and commissioned by the U.S. Navy as USS Paul Revere (APA-248) on September 3, 1958.
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Vietnam War Service: USS Paul Revere played a significant role in the Vietnam War, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to combat zones and participating in numerous amphibious operations.
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Operation Silver Lance: In 1965, she participated in Operation Silver Lance, the largest peacetime amphibious landing exercise ever conducted at that time, off the coast of California.
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Humanitarian Missions: USS Paul Revere was involved in several humanitarian missions, including assisting in the evacuation of refugees and non-combatants from Vietnam during periods of crisis.
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Distinguished Visitors: Over the years, the ship hosted several high-ranking military officials and dignitaries, showcasing its vital role in U.S. Navy operations.
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Reclassification: In 1969, her hull classification was changed from APA (Attack Transport) to LPA (Amphibious Transport, Personnel), reflecting changes in her operational role.
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Decommissioning: USS Paul Revere was decommissioned on May 30, 1980, after more than two decades of service, and was later sold for scrap in 1989.
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Legacy: The ship’s legacy lives on through the stories of her crew and her significant contributions to U.S. amphibious warfare and humanitarian efforts during the Cold War era.
