About this Unit
USS PROTEUS (AS-19) was a Fulton-class submarine tender commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. Initially serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II, she provided vital maintenance and support to submarines engaged in combat operations. After the war, PROTEUS was modernized and played a key role during the Cold War, especially by supporting ballistic missile submarines as part of the U.S. nuclear deterrent force. She remained in active service through several decades, supporting submarine operations in both the Atlantic and Pacific before being decommissioned in 1992.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Proteus is named after the Greek god Proteus, known for his ability to change shape and foretell the future, reflecting adaptability and support—key traits for a submarine tender.
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Class and Hull Number: USS Proteus (AS-19) was a Fulton-class submarine tender, launched on November 12, 1942.
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World War II Service: The ship served in the Pacific during WWII, providing repair and logistical support to submarines engaged in combat operations against Japan.
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Atomic Bomb Support: Proteus was present at Tinian Island in July 1945 and played a support role for the submarines involved in the atomic bomb missions, as Tinian was the launch site for the Enola Gay.
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Guam Overhaul: In 1959-1960, USS Proteus underwent an extensive conversion at Charleston Naval Shipyard to support Polaris Fleet Ballistic Missile submarines, becoming the world’s first missile tender.
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Submarine Squadron 15: After conversion, Proteus served as the flagship and main tender for Submarine Squadron 15 at Apra Harbor, Guam, supporting the US nuclear deterrent during the Cold War.
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Vietnam War Support: Proteus provided support to submarines and surface ships operating in the Vietnam War, reflecting its versatile logistical capabilities.
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Women at Sea: In 1978, Proteus became one of the first US Navy ships to embark female sailors for regular duty, marking an important milestone in Navy integration.
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Longest Service: By the time of her decommissioning in 1992, Proteus had served nearly 50 years, making her one of the longest-serving submarine tenders in US Navy history.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, Proteus was transferred to the US Maritime Administration and later scrapped in 2007, but her legacy lives on in the many submarines and sailors she supported.
