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History of USS Mauna Loa (AE-8)

USS Mauna Loa (AE-8) was an ammunition ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944 during World War II. Serving primarily in the Pacific Theater, she played a crucial role in supplying ordnance to frontline combat ships, supporting operations such as the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. After the war, Mauna Loa continued to serve in the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets, providing vital logistical support during the early Cold War period. The ship was decommissioned in 1958 and later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.

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ABOUT USS Mauna Loa (AE-8)

  • World War II Service: USS Mauna Loa (AE-8) was commissioned on 27 October 1943 and played a crucial role in supplying ammunition to the Pacific Fleet during World War II.
  • Namesake: The ship was named after Mauna Loa, a massive volcano on the island of Hawaii, reflecting the U.S. Navy tradition of naming ammunition ships after volcanoes.
  • Ammo Ship Class: Mauna Loa was the lead ship of her class—the Mauna Loa-class ammunition ships—designed specifically to transport and deliver ammunition to combat ships at sea.
  • Pacific Theater Operations: During WWII, Mauna Loa supported operations at significant battles, including the invasions of Saipan, Guam, and Leyte Gulf, by replenishing frontline combatants with vital munitions.
  • Kamikaze Threats: Ammunition ships like the Mauna Loa were high-value targets for Japanese kamikaze pilots, but the Mauna Loa survived the war without suffering a direct attack.
  • Post-War Activity: After WWII, Mauna Loa was decommissioned in 1947 but was later recommissioned for service during the Korean War and again for the Vietnam War, reflecting her continued strategic importance.
  • Replenishment at Sea: Mauna Loa was equipped to conduct underway replenishments, allowing her to transfer ammunition to other ships while both were moving—a dangerous and complex operation.
  • Notable Crew Achievement: The ship's crew earned several battle stars for their service in World War II and Korea, demonstrating their valor and the ship’s active participation in major operations.
  • Cold War Role: During the Cold War, Mauna Loa participated in various fleet exercises and continued to support U.S. naval operations worldwide, highlighting her longevity and adaptability.
  • Final Fate: After decades of service, USS Mauna Loa was decommissioned for the last time in 1971 and struck from the Navy list; she was sold for scrap in 1974, ending her storied naval career.

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