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History of USS Abnaki (ATF-96)

The **USS Abnaki (ATF-96)** was a fleet ocean tug commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. As part of the Abnaki-class, she served with distinction during World War II, providing vital towing, salvage, and rescue operations in the Pacific Theater, including support during major assaults such as Okinawa. After the war, Abnaki continued her service, assisting in both peacetime and combat operations during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The vessel was finally decommissioned in 1978, having earned several battle stars for her dedicated and versatile service.

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ABOUT USS Abnaki (ATF-96)

  • Namesake: USS Abnaki (ATF-96) was named after the Abenaki, a tribe of Native Americans from the northeastern United States.
  • Class and Type: She was a Cherokee-class fleet tug, designed for towing, salvage, and rescue missions.
  • World War II Service: Commissioned in 1943, Abnaki served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters during World War II, providing essential fleet support.
  • Typhoon Rescue: In 1945, while operating near Okinawa, USS Abnaki aided ships that had been damaged or grounded during a severe typhoon.
  • Operation Crossroads: Abnaki participated in the atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll in 1946, supporting Operation Crossroads as a salvage and tow vessel.
  • Korean War Duty: The ship was reactivated for the Korean War, providing towing, salvage, and target towing services in support of United Nations forces.
  • Vietnam Service: Abnaki served during the Vietnam War, assisting with towing and salvage operations in Southeast Asian waters.
  • Record-Setting Tow: In 1970, Abnaki towed the damaged USS Belknap (CG-26) over 1,000 miles after a collision, showcasing her endurance and capability.
  • Humanitarian Missions: Throughout her career, Abnaki assisted in disaster relief and rescue missions, including helping distressed merchant vessels.
  • Decommissioning and Transfer: After being decommissioned in 1978, Abnaki was transferred to the Mexican Navy, where she served under the name ARM Comodoro Manuel Azueta (A-06).

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