USS Hunley AS-31

The USS Hunley (AS-31) was a submarine tender built to support the U.S. Navy's nuclear-powered submarines. It was laid down on November 28, 1960, at Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia. This shipyard was famous for its skill in crafting both military and commercial vessels, making sure the USS Hunley was a top-notch addition to the Navy's fleet. The ship launched on September 28, 1961, and was commissioned on June 16, 1962, kicking off its service life.

Named after Horace Lawson Hunley, a Civil War submarine design pioneer, the ship honored his work on the Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley, the first to sink an enemy warship. This name was a nod to his impact on naval engineering and submarine warfare, fitting for a ship dedicated to supporting the Navy's submarines.

The USS Hunley stood out for its impressive repair and maintenance capabilities. It had workshops for electronics, hull repair, and weapons systems. It could generate its own electricity and fresh water, acting as a self-sufficient floating repair station. With advanced communication systems, it coordinated operations with submarines and other naval units, ensuring smooth support during missions.

The USS Hunley played a vital role in keeping the Navy's nuclear-powered submarines ready during the Cold War. Its comprehensive maintenance and logistical support let submarines stay at sea longer, boosting the Navy's strategic edge. The ship set a high bar for submarine tenders, influencing future designs and operations.

Part of the Hunley-class, the USS Hunley was designed to support Polaris ballistic missile submarines. These tenders provided maintenance, logistical support, and resupply, allowing submarines to complete missions without returning to port. The Hunley-class ships had specialized facilities for nuclear-powered submarines, including radiation monitoring and decontamination equipment.

The commissioning of the USS Hunley was a big step in enhancing the Navy's submarine support. As the first in its class, it set the standard for future submarine tenders, showing the importance of dedicated support vessels for maintaining an effective submarine fleet. Throughout its service, the USS Hunley was a crucial asset, ensuring the U.S. maintained a strong and ready submarine force during a pivotal time in history.

 

USS Hunley AS-31: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry

The USS Hunley (AS-31) was a submarine tender in the U.S. Navy, built to keep submarines in top shape. It was a big ship, stretching 644 feet long with a beam of 85 feet. When fully loaded, it displaced about 18,000 tons. The hull was made of strong steel, ready to handle long missions and tough seas. Inside, it had multiple decks for different tasks—repair shops, living quarters, and command centers. It was like a floating base, ready for anything.

The Hunley was packed with cutting-edge tech for its time. It had advanced radar and sonar systems to spot submarines and other ships. Its communication systems were top-notch, ensuring secure contact with submarines and other naval units. The ship was also equipped with cranes, machine shops, and electronic repair facilities, all crucial for submarine maintenance. This setup allowed the Hunley to handle complex repairs, getting submarines back to their missions quickly.

Though not a combat ship, the Hunley had defensive weapons to protect itself and the submarines it serviced. It carried several 3-inch/50 caliber guns, effective against surface and aerial threats. It also had smaller anti-aircraft guns and machine guns for added defense. These defenses were vital during the Cold War, when threats were always lurking.

The Hunley's main job was to support and maintain submarines, but it was also key to the Navy's bigger goals. By quickly repairing and resupplying submarines, it extended their reach and effectiveness. This was crucial during the Cold War, when having a ready submarine force was essential. The Hunley's strong build, advanced tech, and defensive gear made it a vital part of the Navy, ensuring submarines could keep up their important work with little downtime.

 

Crew Accounts of Time Aboard

The USS Hunley (AS-31) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and various global locations. The guestbook posts from these veterans paint a vivid picture of life aboard the submarine tender, highlighting camaraderie, professional growth, and unforgettable experiences.

1970s Memories: Warner McGraw served in 1970, and his wife is seeking connections from Goosecreek, South Carolina, between 1974 and 1976. Sid Adams, who served in 1976, recalls the Thanksgiving dinner hosted by XO CDR Meaux. Darryl Aiello, a Torpedo Fire Control Tech in 1979, reminisces about his time in Guam and the ship's journey to Charleston, South Carolina, and Washington. Ronald C. Alexander, who served in 1975, details his work on nuclear hoists and radioactive waste management. Bertram Allen, aboard in 1966, seeks connections from his service years. Andy Andrews, who served in 1971, fondly remembers liberty in Acapulco, Honolulu, and Sydney, and becoming a Golden Shellback. Craig Arrighetti, an ET2 in 1979, spent his entire tour on the Hunley, traveling from Guam to Charleston and Holy Loch. Richard Atkinson, a MM3 in 1979, recalls good times in Guam, Charleston, and Holy Loch. Norman Atwater, who served in 1962, is looking for old shipmates. Gerald Austin, an HT2 in 1983, enjoyed his work in the weld shop. Wil Babcock, who served in 1970, worked in the forward engine room and sailed to Guam from Charleston. Bradley Bailey, a YNSN in 1982, is looking for old buddies. David Baker, an MT3 in 1967, recalls his time in Norfolk, Charleston, and Guam. John Baker, who served in 1963, retired from the ILARNG as a 1SGT. John Bako, an MM1 in 1978, remembers the ship's transit to Guam and back, and riding out typhoons. Daniel Baldwin, a BTFN in 1980, is seeking contact with Jack Wolfe. Chris Banzet, an MR-2 in 1980, enjoyed his time in Guam and Charleston. Bruce Barlow, an ETN3 in 1966, recalls repairing President Nixon's sub in Guam. Gordon Barnes, an LI-3 in 1966, worked in the print shop and experienced drydock in Norfolk. James R. Barry, a SN in 1977, transitioned to the USS Nimitz and later retired as a Captain. Tammy Basnett, an HT3 in 1986, was known as "Mom" and worked in the carpentry and sail shops. Robert Baum, an HT2 in 1993, misses the old crew. Robert Beane, a SN in 1969, is adding his father's service time. Bernie Beausoleil, a SN in 1972, recalls the stowaways and Bill Deeder's fall. Dave Bee, an IM2 in 1984, worked in the Mechanical Calibration Lab and enjoyed his time in Scotland. Sandy Bennett, an HT3 in 1982, was part of the first group of women on the ship. Steve Benson, a TM3 in 1967, is looking to reconnect with friends from W-1 division. Paul Bent, an ET1 in 1966, rode the ship to Guam and back. Nathan Bequette, an EM3 in 1978, recalls a Jethro Tull concert in Inverness, Scotland. George Best, an IC3 in 1971, is looking for old shipmates. Steve Bigge, an E-3 in 1969, was the sail locker supervisor and part of a singing act. Rich Bilskis, a LCDR in 1988, praises the ship's repair capabilities. Guy Bisceglie, an EM in 1971, recalls becoming a Shellback and meeting his wife in Bremerton, WA. Robert Bishop, an ETR2 in 1969, worked on navigation systems and later went to college. Danyell Blue-Corbray, who never served but is seeking her father, Kevin Odom. Gregory Bock, an HT-2 in 1980, enjoyed his time in damage control. Ron Bohnenberger, a FA in 1973, worked in supply and made many friends. Charles Bolle, an MT-3 in 1966, worked in the missile compartment. Daniel Borchert, an FTG2 in 1964, remembers the weather in Scotland and a port call in Lisbon. Gregorio C. Borja, a QMSA-QMSN in 1979, shouts out to the navigation team. Donald Borja, an MT2 in 1976, worked on the Navy's biggest missile. Edwin Boso, an ETC/E-8 in 1965, was the ships inertial navigation supervisor. Mike Boyd, a TM2 in 1960, commissioned the ship and had great times. Jay Boyd, an HT3 in 1985, worked in the lag and pipe shops. Edward Boyer, an ET-2 in 1977, misses being on the Hunley and recalls his time in Guam. Zack Brallier, an E2 in 1993, lived in a house with many shipmates. Don Brand, an FTB1(SS) in 1961, was a pre-comm and comm division LPO. Charles Brandenburg, an EN 2 in 1966, enjoyed his time on the ship. Alfred Brown, an MT2/MT1 in 1966, came from the Proteus and had a challenging command. Joel Brown, a PC3 in 1975, served in the post office and has great memories. Michael Bryant, a MR2 in 1968, remembers MR1 Tiny Lambert and G. Frame. David Buckner, a SN in 1983, was part of the "Deck Dawgs" and remembers Holy Loch. Lisa Bullins, a FN/E3 in 1989, met and married MM3 Latham during her time on the ship. James Bulloch, a L/CPL in 1967, boarded in Charleston and transferred to the JFK carrier. Gary Burkett, a ML3 in 1967, worked in the foundry and knew many shipmates. Bobby Burns, a GMT-2 in 1962, has great memories of the ship and Scotland. Lynn Burriss, a SN in 1986, is looking to reconnect with old shipmates. Mark Burrows, a SK3 in 1971, recalls hot and humid conditions, fights in the EM Club, and great friends. Brad Burton, a PN in 1973, ran the leave desk and has fantastic memories. Paul Campbell, an ET3 in 1984, loved his time in Scotland and rode the ship back to Norfolk. Joseph Carlos, a SKSN in 1971, joined the ship in Charleston and transferred to the Proteus in Guam. Thomas Carpinello, an HT1 (SW) in 1990, credits the Hunley for his professional growth. David Caseley, an EN2 in 1970, came aboard after serving on River Patrol Boats in Vietnam. Jorge Castellanos, an E-2 SA in 1983, is looking for old friends. Martin Castillo, a TM3 in 1987, had good times on the ship and is looking to reconnect. Paul Cerra, an OM3 in 1980, has fond memories of his time on the ship. Bob Chandler, an MR 3 in 1970, worked in the machine shop and nucleonics division. Phillip Chaney, an ENGINEMAN THIRD CLASS /E-4 in 1966, recalls various cruises and good times. Robert L. Chapman III, an EN4 in 1972, worked in the aft engine room and has fond memories of various ports. Scott Chitwood, a BM3 in 1988, had fun on the "love boat" and remembers Charleston. Ronald Christman, an RM2 in 1967, advanced in rank and worked in crypto. George Cicotte, a MM2(SS) in 1978, worked on the cleanup at Three Mile Island after his service. Scott Clemens, a SN in 1979, is looking for old shipmates and has fond memories. Daniel Clements, an EN3 in 1980, worked on various engines and compressors. Larry Clore, an E-4 in 1974, worked in special forces X-Division. L. David Coates, an HT2 in 1981, was exposed to women onboard ship for the first time. David Cole, an EN3 in 1977, worked in the hydraulic/pneumatic shop. Nelson Coleman, a YN1 in 1978, worked in admin and legal. Keith Collins, a SEAMAN 1ST in 1969, worked in special services and later became a corpsman. Angel Colon, a FTG3 in 1970, recalls playing football in Guam and the Rice Bowl in Japan. Wes Compton, a WO1, CWO2 in 1975, served with professional BMCs. Suzanne Concannon, a RM2 in 1982, has happy memories of her time on the ship. Rick Conrad, an EMFN in 1979, worked in the electrical shop and had a great experience. Mark Cooper, an ENFN in 1986, has great memories of Scotland and stateside. Joe Cooper, an HT3 in 1975, loved Charleston and remembers "Harry and Dales" in Goose Creek. Kenneth Courson, an E-4 in 1984, is looking to reconnect with old shipmates. Kenneth Crisler, an ET3 in 1987, has many good memories and recalls Hurricane Hugo. Adam Cross, an HT 2 in 1986, misses the times in Scotland and is looking to reconnect. Lee Cruse, a FT3 in 1970, recalls the ship being cut in half in Bremerton and the Golden Shellback ceremony. Andy Cunningham, a MM2 in 1973, worked in 38A and the hydraulic shop. Thomas Cusmina, a LCDR in 1991, is looking for shipmates to review his book. James Dalgaard, a TM3 in 1971, recalls being a lifeguard and scuba diving. Chester Dean, an E2 in 1972, had a memorable experience despite losing his girlfriend. Bill Deeder, a SN in 1972, recalls falling and breaking his neck on the ship. Vernon Degroat, a LISN in 1986, met his wife on the ship and has great memories. Michael Dempsey, a YN2 in 1985, worked in the ship's office and personnel office. Joseph Demuth, a BM3 in 1970, recalls various ports and bringing a car to Guam. David Dennis, a SGT in 1967, is seeking information about his father's accidental death on the ship. Michael Denny, a SN in 1974, recalls a big storm and the amazing crew. Mike Derosa, a TMCM(SS) in 1990, enjoyed his time aboard and remembers Hurricane Andrew. Jim Desormeaux, an EN2 in 1975, worked in various shops and made Chief in the reserves. Karl Dewar, an E2 in 1977, worked as a cook and recalls winning the Ney Award. Victoria Dewey, a MR2 in 1986, met her best friends on the ship. Randy Dillehay, an E-4 in 1976, worked in the welding shop and recalls Goose Creek and the Cotton Club. Michael Donovan, a FTC in 1965, is seeking information about his father's service. Dean Dove, an EN1 (SW/SCW) in 1985, worked his way through M-Div and experienced various explosions. Samuel Dukes, a PC2 in 1983, is looking to reconnect with old contacts. Sam Dukes, a PC2 in 1983, processed the first group of females assigned to the ship. Douglas Duncan, an HT3 in 1979, has good memories and recalls a stowaway incident. Al Dupras, an EM3 TO EM2 in 1962, was an original plank owner and ship's electrician. David Duprey, a MR.FN.3 in 1970, did machine work for the engineering division. Kevin Durkin, an EN3 in 1966, recalls various cruises and good times.

These memories collectively highlight the diverse experiences of the USS Hunley's crew, from professional achievements and personal growth to unforgettable adventures and lifelong friendships. The ship's history is rich with stories of camaraderie, resilience, and the unique bond shared by those who served aboard her.

 

USS Hunley AS-31: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet

The USS Hunley (AS-31) was a remarkable ship, always adapting to the changing needs of naval warfare. Commissioned in 1962, she was built as a submarine tender, a floating workshop and supply depot for the Navy's submarines. Over the years, the Hunley got some serious upgrades. She was fitted with advanced communication systems, state-of-the-art repair facilities, and better living quarters for her crew. These improvements kept her in step with the sophisticated nuclear-powered submarines that became the heart of the U.S. Navy's strategic deterrent force.

The Hunley was more than just a support ship; she was a lifeline for submarines. Her main job was to act as a mobile support base, letting submarines stay out at sea longer without needing to head back to port. She had specialized workshops and machine shops, ready to tackle anything from minor fixes to major overhauls. Plus, she was stocked with spare parts and supplies, so submarines could quickly get what they needed and get back to their missions. The Hunley also offered medical and dental care, along with recreational facilities, boosting the morale and well-being of the submarine crews.

During the Cold War, the Hunley was crucial. She kept the U.S. Navy's submarine force ready and effective, a key part of the nation's strategic deterrence. By helping submarines stay at sea longer and work more efficiently, the Hunley ensured the U.S. maintained a strong underwater presence. This was vital during tense times when quick deployment and sustained operations in forward areas were critical to national security.

The Hunley's impact went beyond just supporting submarines. Her mobility meant she could be sent anywhere in the world, providing essential support wherever needed. She proved this during deployments in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Pacific. By extending the reach and endurance of the submarine force, the Hunley played a key role in projecting U.S. naval power and keeping the seas secure. Her legacy highlights the vital role of logistical and maintenance support in maintaining a strong and effective naval force.

 

USS Hunley AS-31: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations

USS Hunley (AS-31) was a vital part of the U.S. Navy's submarine fleet support. She was commissioned in 1962 and spent her career ensuring the Atlantic Fleet's ballistic missile submarines were always ready for action. Hunley often found herself in places like Holy Loch, Scotland, acting as a forward-deployed tender. There, she provided essential maintenance, logistics, and crew services to submarines on patrol. This was especially important during the Cold War, helping the U.S. maintain a strong nuclear deterrent.

Hunley wasn't on the front lines, but her role was crucial. During the Cold War, her presence in strategic spots like Holy Loch was a game-changer. She helped keep the submarine fleet ready, especially during tense times like the Cuban Missile Crisis. By making sure submarines were always prepared to deploy, Hunley played a big part in the U.S.'s strategic deterrence, a key part of national security back then.

Hunley's hard work didn't go unnoticed. Over the years, she racked up numerous awards and commendations. She earned several Battle Efficiency "E" awards, given to ships that show top-notch performance and readiness. Hunley also received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for her outstanding service in keeping the submarine fleet operational. These honors highlight the critical role she played in the Navy's mission and the professionalism of her crew.

In short, USS Hunley (AS-31) was a cornerstone of the Navy's submarine support for over three decades. Her deployments to strategic locations ensured that the Navy's ballistic missile submarines were always ready for their deterrent missions. Even though her role wasn't always in the spotlight, it was crucial in keeping the submarine fleet ready during times of conflict and tension. The many awards and commendations she received are a testament to her significant contributions to national security and the dedication of her crew.

 

USS Hunley AS-31 Ship Specifications

Specification	Details
Class	Hunley Class Submarine Tender
Commissioned	June 16, 1962
Displacement	17,640 tons
Length	599 feet
Beam	83 feet
Draft	23.3 feet
Speed	18 knots
Complement	1,190