About this Unit
USS Vermilion (AKA-107) was a Tolland-class attack cargo ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Built for service during World War II, she was too late for major combat but supported postwar occupation duties in the Pacific. During her career, Vermilion participated in various training exercises, amphibious operations, and Cold War deployments, including service during the Korean War. She was decommissioned in 1971 and subsequently struck from the Naval Vessel Register, marking the end of her service.
Historical Facts
•
Commissioning and Namesake: USS Vermilion (AKA-107) was an attack cargo ship of the Tolland-class, commissioned by the U.S. Navy on 9 June 1945. She was named after Vermilion Parish in Louisiana.
•
Late World War II Arrival: Vermilion was commissioned too late to see combat in World War II but played a vital role in post-war operations, including transporting cargo and troops.
•
Operation "Magic Carpet": She participated in Operation "Magic Carpet," the massive effort to return U.S. servicemen home from the Pacific after WWII.
•
Atlantic Fleet Service: After initial Pacific duty, Vermilion was transferred to the Atlantic Fleet, where she operated primarily along the East Coast, Caribbean, and Mediterranean.
•
Korean War Service: Although based in the Atlantic, Vermilion supported the Korean War by transporting troops and equipment, demonstrating the global reach of the U.S. Navy.
•
Lebanon Crisis 1958: Vermilion took part in the U.S. intervention in Lebanon in 1958, helping to land Marines to stabilize the region during a political crisis.
•
Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, she was actively involved in the U.S. naval quarantine of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis, supporting amphibious readiness.
•
Humanitarian Missions: Vermilion also took part in humanitarian and disaster relief operations in the Caribbean, providing aid after hurricanes and other emergencies.
•
Movie Appearance: The USS Vermilion was featured in the 1956 film "Away All Boats," serving as a filming location and appearing in several scenes.
•
Decommissioning and Fate: Vermilion was decommissioned in 1969, struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1973, and eventually sold for scrap in 1988, closing the chapter on a ship that served across three decades and numerous historic events.
