USS Pyro (AE-24)

• Namesake and Class: USS Pyro (AE-24) was the second US Navy ship to bear the name "Pyro," meaning fire in Greek, and was the lead ship of her class of ammunition ships. • Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on 24 July 1959 at Concord Naval Weapons Station, California, and served for over 30 years. • Vietnam War Service: USS Pyro played a crucial logistical role during the Vietnam War, supplying ammunition to aircraft carriers and other warships off the coast of Vietnam. • Innovative Transfer System: She was equipped with the FAST (Fast Automatic Shuttle Transfer) cargo handling system, making her one of the first ammunition ships with a fully automated cargo transfer system. • Frequent Deployments: Throughout her service, Pyro regularly deployed to the Western Pacific (WestPac), supporting U.S. 7th Fleet operations. • Helicopter Operations: The ship could conduct vertical replenishment (VERTREP) operations using helicopters, enhancing her ability to quickly deliver munitions at sea. • Unique Emblem: Her official crest featured a red flame and lightning bolts, symbolizing speed and the dangerous cargo she carried. • Humanitarian Missions: Besides combat support, the Pyro also participated in rescue and humanitarian missions, including the evacuation of Vietnamese refugees after the fall of Saigon in 1975. • Decommissioning: After a long and distinguished career, USS Pyro was decommissioned on 31 May 1994 and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register. • Legacy: Veterans of the USS Pyro have an active reunion association, preserving the ship’s history and camaraderie among former crew members.