USS Procyon AF-61
The USS Procyon (AF-61) was a key player in the U.S. Navy's operations, built with care and precision when logistical support was crucial. Constructed by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, a shipyard known for its naval expertise, the Procyon was laid down on May 1, 1953, and launched on December 10, 1953. It was commissioned on September 24, 1954, marking the start of its dedicated service to the fleet.
Named after the brightest star in the constellation Canis Minor, Procyon symbolized guidance and reliability. This was fitting for a ship designed to provide essential supplies to the fleet, ensuring smooth and efficient naval operations. It was the second U.S. Navy ship to bear the name, following the original USS Procyon (AG-11) from World War I.
The USS Procyon was built to meet the specific needs of a stores ship. It measured 459 feet in length with a beam of 63 feet and had a displacement of about 9,600 tons when fully loaded. With advanced refrigeration and storage facilities, it could carry a wide range of goods, both perishable and non-perishable. Its cargo holds were designed to keep supplies intact over long voyages, ensuring the fleet stayed well-provisioned no matter where they were.
During the Cold War, the Procyon was a steadfast supporter of the U.S. Navy. As part of the Navy's auxiliary force, it played a crucial role in sustaining operations worldwide. Its ability to deliver supplies directly to combat ships at sea allowed for longer deployments and improved readiness. This logistical capability was a game-changer, enabling the Navy to project power and maintain a presence in strategic areas.
The USS Procyon was part of the Alstede-class of stores ships, designed to meet the logistical demands of a modern navy. These ships transported and delivered provisions, including food and spare parts, to ships at sea. This was especially important during the Cold War, when the Navy needed to stay ready and sustain operations far from home. The Alstede-class ships, including the Procyon, were vital to this effort, keeping the fleet operationally effective.
Commissioned on September 24, 1954, the USS Procyon quickly became a crucial part of the Navy's logistical network. Throughout its service, it participated in numerous operations and exercises, showcasing its versatility and reliability. The Procyon's efficient supply delivery made it a cornerstone of the Navy's auxiliary fleet, and its contributions were essential to the success of naval missions during its active years.
USS Procyon AF-61: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Procyon (AF-61) was a key player in the U.S. Navy's logistical operations. It was a stores ship, built to transport and deliver supplies to other ships at sea. With a strong hull, it was ready to face the challenges of ocean travel and supply missions. The Procyon was about 459 feet long and had a beam of 63 feet, offering plenty of space for storage and operations. When fully loaded, it displaced around 14,000 tons, allowing it to carry a large amount of supplies, including refrigerated goods and dry provisions.
The ship boasted cutting-edge refrigeration systems, crucial for keeping perishable goods fresh on long trips. These systems were top-notch for their time, ensuring that fresh produce, dairy, and meats arrived in great condition. The Procyon also had advanced cargo handling gear, like cranes and hoists, making loading and unloading supplies a breeze. Its navigation and communication systems were state-of-the-art, allowing it to operate smoothly in different maritime environments and stay in touch with other ships and command centers.
Though not a combat ship, the USS Procyon was armed for defense. It had several anti-aircraft guns, including 3-inch/50 caliber dual-purpose guns and 20mm Oerlikon cannons, to protect against aerial threats. This was especially important during its service in the Cold War era. These defensive features highlighted the need to protect logistical ships, which were vital for sustaining naval operations.
The Procyon's main job was logistical support, but its defensive capabilities showed the complex nature of naval operations during its service. It could deliver essential supplies and defend itself, making it a valuable asset to the Navy. With its advanced technology, strong build, and defensive armament, the USS Procyon played a crucial role in keeping the fleet ready and successful in its missions.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Procyon (AF-61) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, who served aboard the ship during various years, primarily in the 1960s. These recollections, shared in a guestbook, paint a vivid picture of camaraderie, adventures, and the daily life aboard the vessel.
Jerry Acalin, who served as a MR3 in 1965, is currently living in Oceano, California, and working as a TV technician. He hopes to reconnect with former shipmates. Patrick Bailey, an EM2 in 1964, fondly remembers his nearly three years on the Procyon, recalling shipmates like Bobby Guy, Ronald Rocks, Elton, and Reinbold, who played a mean Ventures.
Jack Baughan, a BT3 in 1970, offers to share email addresses of other shipmates and is on the lookout for pictures of the Procyon docked in Vietnam ports. Terry Brown, a SN in 1967, reminisces about good times with QM McDuffie, Big Spence from Hawaii, and Bouchet the ladies' man, particularly in the Philippines and Hong Kong.
Carl Brust, a MM3 in 1964, cherishes memories of the Baguio tour and great times in Hong Kong. He is searching for Mike Probst and his brother and has a 1964 WESTPAC CRUISE tour book. Dennis Chartier, a BM3 in 1967, enjoyed ports like Hawaii and Hong Kong and wonders about Wade Corpus, with whom he had good times ashore. He possesses yearbooks from the 1967 and 1968 deployments.
Dale Christensen, a RD3 in 1966, started on the deck force and transitioned to radar. He remains in contact with several shipmates and recalls his time on the "big-p" as the best of his life. Tom Christensen, a LT in 1963, served under three skippers and coordinated a cruise book for the 1964 West Pac trip, describing his tour of duty as great.
Dennis Clapp, a CS3 in 1964, recalls serving in the 1st Division under BM3 Rick Wilder, BM2 Tedford, and BM1 Hollins. He left the ship in December 1965. Robert Coatney, a QMSN in 1966, served as a Deck Seaman and briefly in the Radio Room, remembering several shipmates and officers.
Tom Cummings, a SEAMAN/RD2 in 1968, praises the crew and recalls shipmates like Dan Virgil, Parmley, Brewster, and Brockel. Terry Cupp, an ETN3 in 1966, recently retired and remains in contact with several former shipmates. Michael Curwick, an IC3 in 1968, recalls decommissioning the Procyon in Vallejo, California, and serving with great shipmates.
David Dixon, a SKSN in 1961, currently resides in Tucson, Arizona, and seeks to reconnect with former shipmates. Jim Ebbatson, a LTJG in 1967, humorously recalls an incident involving Capt Sulick and XO Jerry Dancer in Hong Kong. Philip Feiner, a MM2 in 1964, appreciates his Navy experience in hindsight, which led to a successful career in refrigeration.
John Greiwe, a RMSN in 1969, served in the Radio Shack with several shipmates and remembers Capt JB Allred and Commander Keenan. Gary Hill, who served in 1965, stood watch in the engine room and transferred from M to A Division. Sid Johnson, a MM3 in 1965, operated the cargo refrigeration plant and made three cruises to Vietnam.
Sam Lass, a SN/PN3 in 1965, enjoyed his time on the Procyon and remembers several shipmates and officers. Alfredo Lucero, a SK-3 in 1962, seeks cruise books from the West Pac cruises between 1962 and 1966. Robert Montroy, an E3 in 1967, served as a radioman and is currently battling leukemia.
George Moore, a QM2 in 1967, recalls Singapore and the Philippines and seeks contact with former shipmates. Jim Nash, a MM3 in 1964, wishes to reconnect with shipmates from his time aboard. Boats Rick Wilder, a BMC in 1963, served in Vietnam and later worked for Shell Oil before retiring.
Robert Sease, a BM3 in 1966, served as a winch operator and boat coxswain, recalling a great crew. Earl Simonin, a MMC in 1966, was in charge of the Refrigeration shop and made several WestPac trips. Charlie Smith, a SN in 1969, recalls friendships and adventures in San Francisco.
Dave Stone, a RMSN/RM3 in 1966, remembers shipmates and humorous incidents involving Capt Tom Sullick and XO Jerry Dancer. Ben Stone, a SHIP SERVICEMAN 3RD CLASS in 1966, ran the ship and clothing store and played guitar. Dan Vigil, a RD2 in 1967, has reunited with several former shipmates and recently talked to others.
Richard Wailes, a SA-SKSN in 1968, served in the 2nd Division and later in S-1, noting the ship's decommissioning in December 1970. Anthony Wakefield, a FA3 in 1965, recalls coming aboard in Subic Bay and hopes to hear from other shipmates.
These shared memories highlight the strong bonds formed aboard the USS Procyon (AF-61) and the lasting impact of their service on the lives of its crew members.
USS Procyon AF-61: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Procyon (AF-61) was a real workhorse for the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1961, this ship was all about keeping the fleet fed and ready. It was a refrigerated stores ship, which means it was designed to carry perishable goods to naval units wherever they were needed. Over the years, the Procyon got some serious upgrades. It received better refrigeration systems, navigation tools, and communication gear. These improvements kept it running smoothly and made sure it could do its job efficiently.
The Procyon was a key player in the Navy's supply chain. Its main job was to deliver fresh and frozen provisions to ships and shore stations. This was crucial because it meant sailors had access to the supplies they needed, no matter where they were. The ship had lots of storage space, with refrigerated holds and dry cargo areas, so it could carry all sorts of goods. Plus, it could do underway replenishments, which is a fancy way of saying it could transfer supplies to other ships while they were both at sea. This kept the fleet ready to go without having to stop at a port.
The Procyon was more than just a delivery service. It was a vital part of many operations and exercises, providing the logistical support that made naval missions successful. Whether during peacetime or conflict, the Procyon made sure the Navy was well-supplied and ready for action. Delivering fresh provisions wasn't just about keeping sailors fed; it boosted morale and kept them healthy, which is crucial for an effective fighting force.
Beyond its supply role, the Procyon was a testament to the Navy's logistical strength and commitment to excellence. Its reliability showed how important a strong supply chain is in modern naval warfare. By keeping the fleet well-provisioned, the Procyon helped maintain the Navy's flexibility and ability to respond to threats worldwide. In short, the USS Procyon (AF-61) was more than a supply ship; it was a critical enabler of naval operations, embodying the Navy's dedication to readiness and resilience.
USS Procyon AF-61: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Procyon (AF-61) was a key player in the U.S. Navy's logistics game, especially during the Cold War. She was commissioned in 1963, not 1961, and her main job was to transport and deliver refrigerated and dry provisions to naval units. Procyon traveled the world, keeping the fleet well-stocked and ready. She sailed the Atlantic, Pacific, and Mediterranean, supporting the Sixth Fleet. These missions were crucial for maintaining the Navy's readiness during tense times.
In the Vietnam War, Procyon was a lifeline for U.S. naval operations in Southeast Asia. She delivered essential supplies to combat ships and shore bases, which was vital for ongoing military efforts. Her ability to bring perishable goods and other supplies under tough conditions highlighted her role in the Navy's supply chain and her contribution to the war effort.
Procyon's service didn't go unnoticed. She earned several awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation, showcasing her outstanding performance. She also received the Vietnam Service Medal with multiple campaign stars, marking her active role in the conflict. These honors were a nod to the ship's crew and their dedication to their mission.
The legacy of USS Procyon (AF-61) is all about her big contributions to the Navy's logistics and her role in major conflicts. Her missions ensured naval forces stayed effective and showed how crucial supply ships are in modern warfare. The awards and commendations she and her crew received are lasting reminders of their dedication and service. As a vital part of the Navy's auxiliary fleet, Procyon exemplified the support role that helps frontline units succeed.
USS Procyon AF-61 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Alstede Class Stores Ship |
| Commissioned | October 13, 1961 |
| Displacement | 15,500 tons |
| Length | 459.2 feet |
| Beam | 63 feet |
| Draft | 28 feet |
| Speed | 16 knots |
| Complement | 292 |