About this Unit
YFU-63 was a United States Navy Yard Freight Utility craft, part of the YFU-62 class of landing craft utility (LCU) vessels. Commissioned during the Vietnam War era, YFU-63 played a crucial role in transporting supplies, vehicles, and personnel to support military operations along the Vietnamese coast and rivers. These vessels were especially valued for their shallow draft, allowing them to deliver cargo directly to undeveloped or contested shorelines. After the conflict, YFU-63 continued to serve in logistical support roles before being struck from the Naval Register.
Historical Facts
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YFU-63 was a United States Navy Yard Freight Utility craft (YFU): YFU-63 was part of a series of naval auxiliary vessels designed primarily for transporting cargo, vehicles, and supplies between ships and shore facilities.
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Vietnam War service: YFU-63 served actively during the Vietnam War, supporting logistics and supply operations for U.S. and allied forces in the region.
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Assigned to Mobile Riverine Force: The craft operated as part of the Mobile Riverine Force, playing a crucial role in riverine and coastal supply missions along the Mekong Delta.
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Critical supply line: YFU-63 and similar vessels were vital in maintaining the flow of ammunition, food, fuel, and equipment to forward operating bases inaccessible to larger ships.
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Attack and loss in 1968: On November 16, 1968, YFU-63 was struck by a command-detonated mine near Cửa Việt, South Vietnam, resulting in its sinking.
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Crew casualties: The attack on YFU-63 resulted in the deaths of several crew members and wounded others, marking a tragic moment in the unit’s history.
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Salvage efforts: After the sinking, salvage operations were attempted, but due to the location and extent of damage, YFU-63 was ultimately considered a total loss.
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Commemoration: The crew members lost aboard YFU-63 are honored on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and remembered in U.S. Navy records.
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Role in logistics innovation: The experience with YFU-63 and similar vessels influenced later naval logistics and the development of future amphibious and utility craft.
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Legacy: The story of YFU-63 highlights the dangers faced by support and logistics personnel during wartime and their essential contribution to military operations.
