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History of USS CAMBRIA APA-36

USS Cambria (APA-36) was a Bayfield-class attack transport commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. She played a crucial role during World War II, participating in major amphibious assaults including the invasions of Saipan, Leyte, and Okinawa. After the war, Cambria supported occupation duties in the Far East and later served in the Korean War, transporting troops and equipment. The ship continued to serve through the 1960s before being decommissioned in 1970 and ultimately scrapped.

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ABOUT USS CAMBRIA APA-36

  • Namesake: USS Cambria (APA-36) was named after Cambria County, Pennsylvania, following the tradition of naming attack transports after counties in the United States.
  • Class and Type: She was a Bayfield-class attack transport, designed to carry troops and landing craft for amphibious operations during World War II.
  • World War II Service: USS Cambria participated in five major amphibious landings: Kwajalein, Saipan, Leyte, Lingayen Gulf, and Okinawa, making her a veteran of some of the most important Pacific battles.
  • Kamikaze Attack Survivor: During the invasion of Okinawa in April 1945, Cambria came under heavy air attack and survived kamikaze threats, demonstrating the resilience and skill of her crew.
  • Transported Notable Units: She carried elements of the 4th Marine Division for the assault on Saipan and later transported Army units for the liberation of the Philippines.
  • Post-War "Magic Carpet" Duty: After WWII, Cambria took part in Operation Magic Carpet, bringing thousands of American servicemen home from the Pacific.
  • Korean War Service: Reactivated for the Korean War, Cambria carried troops and supplies to support United Nations operations and participated in amphibious training exercises.
  • Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, USS Cambria was part of the U.S. naval forces during the Cuban Missile Crisis, helping to enforce the naval "quarantine" of Cuba.
  • Humanitarian Missions: The ship conducted several humanitarian missions, including disaster relief in the Caribbean, reflecting the Navy's wider peacetime role.
  • Decorations and Honors: USS Cambria received six battle stars for World War II service and two for action during the Korean War, a testament to her long and distinguished career.

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