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History of USS Apache ATF 67

USS Apache (ATF-67) was a Cherokee-class fleet tug commissioned by the United States Navy in 1942. During World War II, she provided towing, salvage, and rescue operations in the Pacific Theater, supporting fleet movements and damaged vessels during major campaigns, including operations at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After the war, Apache continued to serve through the Korean War, again providing crucial support to naval operations. She remained active through the Cold War era, serving in various capacities until her decommissioning in 1974.

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ABOUT USS Apache ATF 67

  • Launch and Commissioning: USS Apache (ATF-67) was laid down on January 21, 1942, by the Charleston Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in South Carolina, and was commissioned on September 12, 1943.
  • Name Origin: The ship was named after the Apache people, a group of culturally related Native American tribes from the Southwestern United States.
  • World War II Service: Apache served as a fleet ocean tug, performing towing, salvage, and rescue operations throughout the Pacific Theater, including supporting the invasions of Guam, Saipan, and the Marianas.
  • Typhoon Rescue Heroics: During Typhoon Louise in Okinawa (October 1945), Apache participated in multiple daring rescues of ships and sailors in distress, saving numerous lives.
  • Postwar Duty: After WWII, Apache operated out of Pearl Harbor, supporting Pacific Fleet operations and participating in nuclear testing operations, including Operation Crossroads at Bikini Atoll in 1946.
  • Korean War Service: Apache served throughout the Korean War, providing essential towing and salvage services for United Nations naval forces.
  • Vietnam War Operations: The ship continued to serve in the Pacific, including support and deployments during the Vietnam War, showcasing the vessel's versatility and endurance.
  • Notable Salvage Missions: Apache was involved in the recovery of several grounded or damaged ships, including the rescue of the USS Frank Knox (DDR-742) in 1965 after it ran aground on Pratas Reef.
  • Decommissioning: USS Apache was decommissioned from the U.S. Navy on September 30, 1974, after more than 30 years of service in three major conflicts.
  • Final Fate: After decommissioning, Apache was transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) in 1978, where it served as ROCS Ta Wan (ATF-551).

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