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History of Military sealift commands

The Military Sealift Command (MSC) is a United States Navy organization established in 1949 to provide ocean transportation of equipment, fuel, supplies, and ammunition to sustain U.S. military forces worldwide. Originally formed as the Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS), the MSC has evolved to manage a fleet of civilian-crewed ships that perform essential logistics, special mission, and prepositioning operations. Throughout major conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, and recent operations in the Middle East, MSC vessels have delivered critical cargo and supported naval operations. Today, the MSC remains a vital component of U.S. military readiness, ensuring rapid and efficient global sealift capability.

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ABOUT Military sealift commands

  • Origins in World War II: Military Sealift Command (MSC) traces its roots to the Naval Transportation Service and Army Transport Service, which were vital for Allied logistics during World War II.
  • Official Formation: MSC was formally established on July 1, 1949, consolidating several transportation functions under one command for efficiency.
  • Civilian Mariners: Unlike other U.S. Navy units, the majority of MSC ships are operated by civilian mariners known as "CIVMARS," not active-duty military personnel.
  • Global Reach: MSC operates nearly 125 ships worldwide at any given time, providing logistical support wherever U.S. forces are deployed.
  • Underway Replenishment: MSC ships are responsible for underway replenishment, delivering fuel, ammunition, and supplies to Navy ships at sea, allowing them to remain on station longer.
  • Vital in Conflicts: MSC played crucial roles in the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies.
  • Fast Sealift Ships: MSC operates some of the world’s fastest cargo ships, capable of speeds up to 33 knots, used for rapid deployment of military equipment in emergencies.
  • Humanitarian Missions: MSC ships regularly participate in humanitarian efforts, such as delivering disaster relief supplies after hurricanes, earthquakes, or tsunamis.
  • Prepositioning Program: MSC manages prepositioned ships loaded with military equipment and supplies, stationed around the world for rapid response to crises.
  • "Blue and Gold" Crew Concept: Some MSC ships use a dual crew system—Blue and Gold crews—that rotate to maximize operational availability and reduce crew fatigue.

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