About this Unit
USS Repose (AH-16) was a Haven-class hospital ship commissioned by the United States Navy in May 1945. Originally serving in the final months of World War II, she provided vital medical support in the Pacific theater. Repose was reactivated for both the Korean War and the Vietnam War, where she became known as the "Angel of the Orient" for her life-saving care to thousands of wounded service members. After decades of distinguished service, USS Repose was decommissioned in 1970.
Historical Facts
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Two Commissioned Periods: USS Repose (AH-16) served during two major periods: first from 1945 to 1950 (World War II and immediate aftermath), and then from 1950 to 1954 (Korean War), and recommissioned a third time from 1965 to 1970 (Vietnam War).
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Converted from a Cargo Ship: Originally laid down as the SS Marine Beaver, a C4-class cargo ship, she was converted into a hospital ship before entering service.
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Impressive Medical Capacity: Repose could accommodate up to 750 patients, and her crew included around 564 medical staff at full complement, making her a floating hospital of significant capability.
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Known as the "Angel of the Orient": During her service in the Korean War, she earned the nickname "Angel of the Orient" for her role in saving thousands of lives.
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Helicopter Landing Deck: Repose was one of the first hospital ships to have a helicopter landing deck installed, allowing for rapid evacuation of wounded personnel directly from the battlefield.
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Korean War Service: During the Korean War, Repose spent over 30 continuous months on station, providing uninterrupted medical care to wounded soldiers.
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Vietnam War Role: In Vietnam, Repose was stationed off the coast and acted as a primary receiving ship for casualties evacuated by helicopter from the front lines.
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Celebrity Visits: Famous visitors included Bob Hope and his USO troupe, who performed for the crew and patients aboard the ship during the Vietnam War.
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Humanitarian Missions: Beyond treating American servicemen, Repose also provided medical care to allied and civilian casualties, including South Vietnamese and Korean soldiers.
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Final Fate: After her decommissioning in 1970, USS Repose was struck from the Naval Register in 1974 and sold for scrap in 1975, ending her long and distinguished service history.
