USS PONCHATOULA A0-148

USS Ponchatoula (AO-148) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler commissioned by the United States Navy in 1956. Designed to provide underway replenishment of fuel and supplies to ships at sea, Ponchatoula played a vital logistical role throughout the Cold War, including support during the Vietnam War. The ship participated in numerous operations, including Operation Dominic, a series of nuclear tests in the Pacific, and multiple combat support missions in Southeast Asia. After decades of service, Ponchatoula was decommissioned in 1992 and ultimately struck from the Naval Vessel Register, leaving a legacy of distinguished support to the U.S. Navy fleet.