USS Chemung AO-30
The USS Chemung (AO-30) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler built for the U.S. Navy just before World War II. It was laid down on 24 September 1938 at the Bethlehem Shipbuilding Corporation's Fore River Shipyard in Quincy, Massachusetts. The ship launched on 9 September 1939 and was commissioned on 3 August 1940. Chemung was part of a push to boost the Navy's logistics, making sure the fleet could stay operational over long distances and times.
Named after the Chemung River, a tributary of the Susquehanna River in New York and Pennsylvania, the ship followed the Navy's tradition of naming oilers after rivers. This highlighted its role in fueling the fleet. The Chemung River has historical importance as a trade and transport route. "Chemung" comes from a Native American word meaning "big horn," showing the river's significance to the indigenous people.
The USS Chemung was known for its large fuel capacity and sturdy build, ready for wartime challenges. It was 553 feet long, with a beam of 75 feet and a draft of 32 feet. Powered by a turbo-electric transmission, it could reach 18 knots. Chemung had multiple tanks holding over 146,000 barrels of oil, allowing it to refuel ships at sea. It was also armed with anti-aircraft guns to protect against enemy planes, a must during the war.
The Chemung's impact on the Navy was huge, playing a key role in many operations during World War II and beyond. Its ability to refuel ships at sea kept the Navy active in crucial areas, from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Chemung was part of major campaigns like the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, and Normandy, and served in the Pacific Theater. It continued its vital support role during the Korean War.
As a Cimarron-class oiler, Chemung was part of a group designed to meet the Navy's need for at-sea refueling. These ships were based on commercial tanker designs but modified for military use. Their main job was to transport and deliver fuel to naval vessels, allowing the fleet to operate without relying on shore-based supplies. This was key to the Navy's strategy of maintaining a global presence.
When Chemung was commissioned on 3 August 1940, it began a notable career lasting over three decades. As one of the first Cimarron-class oilers, it set the bar for those that followed. Its commissioning was timely, as the U.S. was gearing up for possible involvement in World War II. Chemung's readiness and capabilities were crucial in supporting the Navy's quest for maritime dominance.
USS Chemung AO-30: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Chemung (AO-30) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler, a class known for its robust and efficient design. These ships were built to support naval operations by refueling ships at sea. Chemung stretched 553 feet long and had a beam of 75 feet, making it a substantial platform for its primary mission of fuel transport. Its hull featured a double bottom, enhancing durability and safety—crucial for a vessel carrying large quantities of fuel. When fully loaded, Chemung displaced about 24,830 tons, allowing it to carry a significant amount of fuel oil, aviation gasoline, and other supplies essential for fleet operations.
Technologically, Chemung was equipped with top-notch refueling gear for its time, enabling it to perform underway replenishment (UNREP) operations efficiently. This capability was vital during World War II and later conflicts, as it allowed the U.S. Navy to maintain a continuous presence at sea without ships needing to return to port for refueling. Chemung's refueling equipment included multiple fueling stations and hoses, which could service several vessels simultaneously. It also boasted advanced navigation and communication systems, ensuring precise coordination during complex refueling maneuvers.
When it came to armament, Chemung was initially outfitted with a modest array of defensive weaponry, reflecting its primary role as a support vessel rather than a combat ship. During World War II, its armament was upgraded to include anti-aircraft guns to defend against enemy aircraft. This included 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, 3-inch/50 caliber guns, and 20mm Oerlikon cannons. These weapons provided a layered defense system, allowing Chemung to protect itself and the ships it was refueling from aerial threats.
The weaponry on Chemung wasn't just a defensive measure; it was a testament to the evolving nature of naval warfare during its service period. As threats from enemy aircraft and submarines increased, even support vessels needed to be armed. The crew was trained to operate these weapons effectively, ensuring Chemung could contribute to the overall defensive posture of the fleet. This combination of robust structure, advanced refueling technology, and defensive armament made the USS Chemung a vital asset to the U.S. Navy, capable of supporting extended naval operations across the globe.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Chemung (AO-30) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the rich tapestry of memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span decades, from the ship's service during World War II to its decommissioning in the late 1960s, painting a vivid picture of life aboard the "Dirty Thirty."
1950s Memories: Ron Allen, who served as a Seaman E-3 in 1959, recalls his time under the command of Captain Masterson and working with 2nd Class Boatswain Harry Allen. Richard Jewett, a Radioman Seaman in 1958, fondly remembers the USS Chemung as his first ship and is on a quest to find a picture of her. Ben Locastro, a Radioman 2nd Class in 1958, reminisces about his fellow radiomen, including RMC Miller and RMSN Jewett, and others like Ray Higginbottom and Varney.
1960s Experiences: The 1960s brought a diverse array of experiences for the crew. Pecoraro Darryl, a Seaman in 1960, loved his two years aboard, recalling multiple trips to the Western Pacific and constant refueling operations. Wayne Russell, a Radioman 3rd Class in 1962, shares memories of raising hell at the Fort McArthur EM club with his brother Billy and other firemen.
In 1963, Mike Sherwood, a Radarman 2nd and 1st Class, remembers shipmates like ET2 Dave Hackenbrusch and ET2 Rick Quijada. By 1965, the ship had a vibrant crew, including Michael Curran, a Storekeeper, who is looking for his late brother Tom's friends, and Bill Kushyk, a Signalman 3rd Class, who cherishes memories of working with the bridge and radio men. Ronald Maul, who served as a Machinist Mate and Yeoman, continued his career to retire as a Lieutenant. Marvin Simer, the ship's Postal Clerk in 1965-66, fondly recalls his time aboard and now resides in Vero Beach, FL. Al Stethem, a Radioman E5, remembers his fellow radiomen and the challenges of unloading empty ammo from ships. Alfred White, a Seaman, recounts a harrowing incident where he fell from a scaffold and was taken to the USS Haven and Naval Hospital.
The mid to late 1960s saw the Chemung involved in the Vietnam War. Harold Clouser, a Machinist Mate 3rd Class in 1967, humorously recalls being a rascal and holding his own despite his small stature. Ron Dell, a Radioman 2nd Class in 1967, remembers refueling the USS Forrestal and the missed opportunity to visit Australia. William Diell, a Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class in 1968, lists his best friends and the officers he served under during the ship's decommissioning. James Ellis, a Signalman 3rd Class in 1969, served on the last Westpac cruise and later retired as a Major in the Oregon Guard. Frank Haggard, a Seaman in 1966, fondly remembers his duty section petty officer, Ernesto Balderas, and Captain John A. Montgomery.
Vietnam War and Decommissioning: Joe Hautzinger, a Lieutenant Junior Grade in 1968, seeks to communicate with crew members from the 67-68 and 69-70 cruises to clarify some cloudy memories. Jo James O. Brown, who rose from Seaman Recruit to Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class in 1967, lists numerous shipmates and officers he learned from. Michael Marquette, a Seaman in 1967, enjoyed his time aboard as a Corpsman Striker before heading to Hospital Corps School and later serving in Vietnam with the Marines. Fred Mendes, a Yeoman 2nd Class in 1968, mentions staying in touch with a few shipmates over the years.
World War II Veterans: The guestbook also includes memories from World War II veterans. Michael Palozzilo, a Machinist Mate 2nd Class in 1943, is looking for any surviving shipmates from his time aboard. Henry Seetch, a Machinist Mate 1st Class, recalls his enlistment in 1942, boarding in 1943, and serving in North Africa operations.
Final Reflections: The guestbook entries reflect a deep camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose among the crew members of the USS Chemung. From the humorous anecdotes of Harold Clouser to the poignant search for old friends by Michael Palozzilo, these memories collectively capture the essence of life aboard the "Dirty Thirty." The ship's history is not just a series of events but a collection of personal stories that continue to resonate with those who served on her.
USS Chemung AO-30: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Chemung (AO-30) was a real workhorse for the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1942, this Cimarron-class fleet oiler was all about keeping the fleet fueled and ready. Over the years, Chemung got some serious upgrades. They improved its fuel transfer systems, navigation gear, and communication tech. These changes kept it running smoothly and made sure it could do its job better than ever.
Chemung was a key player in the Navy's operations. Its main job was underway replenishment, which means it could refuel ships while they were still at sea. This was a game-changer, letting the Navy stay out on the water longer without heading back to port. During World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, Chemung was right there, making sure aircraft carriers and destroyers had the fuel they needed to keep going.
During World War II, Chemung was part of some big operations like the Guadalcanal Campaign and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Its ability to refuel ships in combat zones was crucial. After the war, Chemung didn't slow down. It kept supporting the Navy during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, proving just how important fleet oilers are for keeping the Navy ready and on the move.
But Chemung wasn't just about wartime action. In peacetime, it took part in training exercises, humanitarian missions, and even diplomatic efforts. By working with allied navies, Chemung helped show off American naval power and build good relationships. Its versatility made it a vital part of the Navy's global strategy. Throughout its service, Chemung showed just how important logistical support ships are for the Navy's success.
USS Chemung AO-30: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Chemung (AO-30) was a real workhorse for the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1942, this Cimarron-class fleet oiler was all about keeping the fleet fueled and ready. Over the years, it got some serious upgrades. We're talking better fuel transfer systems, top-notch navigation gear, and slick communication tools. These improvements kept the Chemung running smoothly and made sure it could do its job—refueling ships at sea—without a hitch.
The Chemung was a key player in the Navy's operations. Its main gig was underway replenishment, which meant it could refuel ships without them having to head back to port. This was a game-changer, especially during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The Chemung carried tons of fuel oil, aviation gas, and other supplies, keeping aircraft carriers and destroyers in the fight. It was crucial in battles like Guadalcanal and Leyte Gulf, proving just how important fleet oilers are in naval warfare.
But the Chemung didn't just shine in wartime. In peacetime, it was still making waves. It took part in training exercises, humanitarian missions, and even diplomatic gigs. By joining forces with allied navies, it helped project American naval power and build international goodwill. The Chemung's ability to handle all sorts of missions showed just how versatile and adaptable fleet oilers can be. Throughout its service, the Chemung was a prime example of how vital logistical support ships are to the Navy's global strategy.
USS Chemung AO-30 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Cimarron Class Fleet Oiler |
| Commissioned | July 3, 1941 |
| Displacement | 25,425 tons |
| Length | 553 feet |
| Beam | 75 feet |
| Draft | 32.3 feet |
| Speed | 18.3 knots |
| Complement | 34 Officers 267 Enlisted |