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History of USS Nitro (AE-2)

USS Nitro (AE-2) was an ammunition ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1921. Serving primarily in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, Nitro played a crucial logistical role, supplying munitions to fleet units during both peacetime operations and World War II. During the war, she supported Allied forces by providing vital ordnance during key campaigns, including the invasions of North Africa and Southern France. After distinguished service, USS Nitro was decommissioned in 1945 and subsequently scrapped in 1949.

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ABOUT USS Nitro (AE-2)

  • First Nitro-Class Ammunition Ship: USS Nitro (AE-2) was the lead ship of the Nitro-class ammunition ships, designed specifically for the safe transport of explosives and munitions for the U.S. Navy.
  • Commissioned in 1921: USS Nitro was commissioned on April 1, 1921, at the Puget Sound Navy Yard, marking the beginning of her nearly three-decade service.
  • World War II Service: During WWII, Nitro played a vital role in supplying ammunition to both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, supporting major operations including the Normandy Invasion and the Okinawa campaign.
  • Transatlantic Convoys: Nitro participated in numerous hazardous transatlantic convoys, braving the threat of German U-boats to deliver munitions to Allied forces in Europe.
  • Explosion Incident: In August 1943, while anchored in Oran, Algeria, Nitro narrowly avoided disaster when a nearby ammunition ship, the SS Richard Montgomery, was wrecked but Nitro survived without major damage.
  • Supplying the Fleet: Nitro was a lifeline for warships, replenishing battleships, cruisers, and aircraft carriers at sea under dangerous conditions, often while under threat of enemy attack.
  • Post-War Activity: After WWII, Nitro continued to serve as an ammunition supply ship, supporting occupation forces in Europe and the Mediterranean.
  • Decommissioning: USS Nitro was decommissioned on November 30, 1945, after serving in both peacetime and wartime, and was eventually sold for scrap in 1949.
  • Crew Stories: Nitro's crew often recounted the nerve-wracking experience of sailing fully loaded with explosives, knowing that a single enemy shell or torpedo could be catastrophic.
  • Legacy: USS Nitro (AE-2) set the standard for future ammunition ships and is remembered for her critical logistics support, contributing to the success of the U.S. Navy’s operations during some of the most pivotal moments of the 20th century.

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