About this Unit
USS Requisite (AGS-18) was originally built as a minesweeper (AM-109) and commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. During World War II, she served in the Pacific Theater, conducting minesweeping, escort, and survey operations to ensure safe passage for Allied vessels. In 1945, she was converted to a survey ship and redesignated AGS-18, continuing her crucial work in hydrographic surveying and charting strategic waters. After the war, USS Requisite supported occupation forces in Japan and conducted further surveys before being decommissioned in 1946.
Historical Facts
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World War II Service: USS Requisite (AGS-18) played an essential role during World War II as a survey and mine countermeasures ship, supporting critical amphibious operations in the Pacific Theater.
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Former Name: The ship was originally laid down as YMS-272, a Yard Minesweeper, before being reclassified and renamed Requisite (AGS-18) in 1945.
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Reclassification: In March 1945, the vessel was reclassified from a minesweeper (YMS) to an Auxiliary Survey Ship (AGS), reflecting its new role in hydrographic survey work.
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Okinawa Landings: The USS Requisite participated in the dangerous pre-invasion minesweeping and survey operations at Okinawa—one of the largest amphibious assaults in history.
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Postwar Operations: After WWII, the ship continued its survey duties, conducting hydrographic work in the Far East, including Japanese and Chinese waters.
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Battle Stars: For her service in World War II, USS Requisite received three battle stars, recognizing her contributions to the war effort.
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Conversion: The conversion to AGS status included the installation of specialized survey and charting equipment, enabling the collection of vital oceanographic and navigational data.
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Decommissioning: USS Requisite was decommissioned on 19 July 1946, marking the end of her brief but impactful service with the U.S. Navy.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, the ship was struck from the Naval Vessel Register and eventually sold for civilian use.
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Legacy: The ship’s survey and minesweeping missions contributed to safer naval operations and the advancement of hydrographic knowledge in the Pacific, benefiting both military and civilian navigation for years to come.