About this Unit
USS Princeton (LPH-5) was originally commissioned as an Essex-class aircraft carrier during World War II in 1945. After serving in the late stages of the war and in the Korean War, she was converted to an amphibious assault ship (LPH) in 1959, specializing in helicopter operations. As an amphibious assault ship, Princeton played a significant role in the early years of U.S. helicopter-borne warfare, including critical operations during the Vietnam War, such as troop deployments and evacuations. USS Princeton was decommissioned in 1970, concluding a distinguished career marked by adaptability and service across multiple conflicts.
Historical Facts
•
Origins as an Aircraft Carrier: USS Princeton (LPH-5) was initially commissioned as an Essex-class aircraft carrier (CV-37) in 1945, participating in World War II operations before being decommissioned and later converted to an amphibious assault ship (LPH-5).
•
Korean War Service: Princeton was reactivated for the Korean War, where she provided close air support and engaged in multiple combat operations, including the famous Inchon Landing in 1950.
•
Conversion to LPH: In 1959, she was converted into one of the Navy’s first amphibious assault ships (Landing Platform Helicopter), designed to deploy Marines by helicopter directly into combat zones.
•
Cuban Missile Crisis: During the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, Princeton was deployed as part of the naval quarantine line, ready to support Marine landings if necessary.
•
Vietnam War Contributions: Princeton served extensively during the Vietnam War, conducting troop landings, helicopter assaults, and medical evacuations, earning several battle stars for her service.
•
Apollo Space Program Support: USS Princeton served as a recovery ship for the Apollo 10 space mission in May 1969, recovering astronauts after their return from lunar orbit.
•
Helicopter Innovations: Princeton was involved in early development and deployment tactics for helicopter-borne amphibious assaults, helping shape modern Marine Corps doctrine.
•
Evacuation Operations: The ship participated in evacuation operations, including the evacuation of Vietnamese civilians and U.S. personnel during the Vietnam War.
•
Multinational Exercises: Princeton regularly participated in amphibious exercises with allied navies, enhancing interoperability and joint operational capabilities.
•
Decommissioning and Legacy: USS Princeton (LPH-5) was decommissioned in 1970 after 25 years of distinguished service, and her innovative contributions to amphibious warfare are still recognized in naval history.
