USS Taconic AGC-17
The USS Taconic (AGC-17) was a standout in the U.S. Navy, built when advanced amphibious command ships were crucial. Laid down on January 22, 1945, by the North Carolina Shipbuilding Company in Wilmington, it launched on March 14, 1945, and was commissioned on January 16, 1946. This ship was part of a broader push to boost the Navy's ability to coordinate large-scale amphibious operations, a key part of naval strategy during and after World War II.
Named after the Taconic Mountains, which stretch along New York's eastern border into Massachusetts and Connecticut, the ship's name was chosen to reflect strength and resilience. The Taconic Mountains symbolize these qualities, and the name also honors the natural beauty and historical significance of this northeastern U.S. region. It's a Navy tradition to name ships after prominent geographical features.
The USS Taconic boasted impressive communication and command facilities, cutting-edge for its time. Equipped with advanced radar, radio, and signal gear, it served as a floating command center. This made the Taconic invaluable for coordinating complex amphibious assaults, providing a centralized hub for command and control. The ship's design included accommodations for a large staff of officers and enlisted personnel, supporting extended missions.
The USS Taconic's legacy in the Navy is marked by its role in key operations and its impact on amphibious warfare tactics. As an amphibious command ship, it played a crucial role in planning and executing amphibious landings, acting as a communication and coordination hub. The ship's capabilities highlighted the importance of dedicated command vessels, influencing future amphibious command ship designs and deployments.
Part of the Adirondack-class of amphibious force command ships, the Taconic was designed to meet amphibious operation needs. These ships provided mobile command centers close to the action, ensuring commanders had real-time information and communication capabilities. This class was a response to World War II lessons, where effective command and control in amphibious operations proved essential.
Commissioned on January 16, 1946, the USS Taconic entered service as the Navy transitioned from wartime to peacetime readiness. Even after World War II, the ship's capabilities were in high demand as the Navy refined its amphibious warfare strategies. The Taconic's commissioning marked the start of a distinguished career, participating in numerous exercises and operations, cementing its place in naval history.
USS Taconic AGC-17: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Taconic (AGC-17) was a marvel of mid-20th century naval engineering, crafted as an amphibious force flagship. Built on a C3-S-A2 hull, it was a versatile design used for many auxiliary vessels during World War II. The Taconic stretched about 459 feet long with a beam of 63 feet, offering plenty of room for command and control operations. Its superstructure was packed with communication and radar gear, turning it into a floating command center ready to coordinate large-scale amphibious missions.
Tech-wise, the USS Taconic was ahead of its time. It boasted cutting-edge communication and radar systems. With advanced radio and teletype equipment, it ensured secure and reliable communication with other naval units and ground forces. The radar systems provided real-time situational awareness, crucial for orchestrating complex amphibious assaults. These capabilities made the ship a nerve center for fleet operations, giving commanders the info they needed to make quick, informed decisions.
Though not primarily a combat vessel, the USS Taconic was armed to defend against aerial and surface threats. It had several 40mm anti-aircraft guns and 20mm Oerlikon cannons. These weapons were strategically placed to offer a 360-degree field of fire, allowing the Taconic to protect itself from enemy aircraft and small surface vessels. This defensive armament highlighted the ship's role in safeguarding the command and control operations it supported.
The Taconic's weaponry was backed by strong defensive measures, including armor plating in critical areas and watertight compartments to boost survivability. Its design featured damage control systems like fire suppression and dewatering pumps to handle potential attacks. While not meant for frontline combat, these defenses ensured it could withstand and repel attacks long enough to keep its vital command and control functions running. This blend of structure, technology, armament, and defenses made the USS Taconic a key player in the U.S. Navy's amphibious operations.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Taconic (AGC-17) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning various years and experiences. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, from routine duties to extraordinary events.
Joe Ahearn, who served as a QM3 in 1955, recalls the ship's voyages to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, and a particularly rough stint in the North Atlantic that forced the captain to change course due to a broken expansion seam in the officers' quarters.
Harry Auer, a BM-3 in 1966, shares more somber memories, including a tragic helicopter crash off the coast of North Carolina that resulted in the loss of the ship's doctor and some flight crew members. He also recounts near-misses, such as almost losing an LCVP in a head-on collision with another LCVP.
Richard Byrne, who served as a SN COXSWAIN on LCVP #2 in 1957, was part of the crew during the landing of troops in Beirut. He left the ship in 1959 in Barcelona before it passed through the Suez Canal.
Leo Coughlin, a JOSN in 1956, had a unique experience due to an overabundance of journalists in PhibLant. He spent his time assisting the ship's carpenter with compartment designations and enjoyed free rein of the ship.
Jim Edwards, an ET3 in 1957, also participated in the Beirut landing and worked on electronics. He was known as the tallest and thinnest sailor on the ship.
Amedeo Falcone, a Petty Officer 3rd Class Commissary in 1963, reminisces about touring the Mediterranean and being part of the Cuban blockade. He is looking to reconnect with his buddy Bruce Morelle and others.
W Feehley, an E-3 in 1966, served in the lithography division and fondly remembers Seaman Gordon Caswell, who was an usher at his wedding.
John Fleming, an SK2 in 1958, details his service journey from the USS Skill to the USS Waxsaw and finally to the USS Taconic, where he was honorably discharged in 1961.
Gordon Hall, an RM3 in 1963, simply recalls having great times aboard the ship and is looking to reconnect with fellow crew members.
Mansfield Hill, an ICFN in 1966, joined the ship during a major overhaul in the Philadelphia Navy Shipyard and participated in a shakedown cruise to Guantanamo Bay.
John Isenberg, a CS4 in 1964, seeks to connect with those who served with him to validate a claim related to an accident he had on the ship.
Don McGuire, an MM2 in 1962, joined the ship while it was in dry dock in Philadelphia and left in 1967.
John Peters, an SKSN in 1963, worked in the GSK storeroom below the mess deck and is currently a Department of Defense Police Officer.
Dave Petersen, an MR2 in 1968, recalls his first sea duty after Class A school and a memorable Caribbean cruise.
Jesse Quintanilla, an SFM2 in 1964, remembers a Baby Huey helicopter crash on the flight deck during their time in the Dominican Republic.
Joseph Reich, who served as an Ensign to LT.(JG) in 1957, speaks highly of Capt. Brisco Chipman and his leadership during the Lebanon crisis in 1958.
Christopher Schauer, a BM2 in 1963, fondly remembers his time aboard the ship and the various captains he served under, as well as his fellow crew members.
James Schroeder, a 3rd Class in 1954, is looking to reconnect with George W. Gibson and others who worked in the evaporator room.
John Settles, an SM2 in 1959, describes his time on the ship as the best of his life and is eager to reconnect with old shipmates.
Dennis E. Sherer, an ETN2 in 1963, played bass in the ship's rock band, The Satellites, and recalls performing at a smoker event.
Robert Stewart, an MR3 in 1956, shares a memory of breaking his ankle after falling down a ladder and his overall positive experience aboard the ship.
Steve Tankesley, an SM2 in 1960, reflects on his time as a signalman and his decision to re-enlist and change his rate, though he wishes he had stayed a signalman.
Howard Taylor, an Ensign in 1956, adds his father's name to the crew list, noting that his father, a radioman, always spoke fondly of the USS Taconic.
Paul Taylor, an SA in 1958, also adds his father's information to the site, honoring his service.
John Tymoczko, an ET1 in 1956, is remembered by his daughter, Valerie, who is compiling a book about his Navy service and seeking to interview his shipmates.
Ron Vigue, a CYN3 in 1964, is looking to reconnect with John Quinn and other shipmates from his time aboard the ship.
Ronald Volbrecht, an RM3 in 1963, reflects on how his Navy experience as a radioman influenced his career choices.
Jim Walters, a CS2 in 1967, mentions staying in touch with George Demetrios and the special bond shared with old friends and shipmates.
Jerry Whelpley, an FGT3 in 1962, recalls joining the ship from 'A' school, undergoing an overhaul in Philadelphia, and subsequent deployments to Cuba and the Mediterranean.
Allen Yoder, who served in 1966, was in charge of the av shack and the landing platform, and worked on the Admiral's barge.
These memories collectively highlight the diverse experiences of the USS Taconic's crew, from routine duties and camaraderie to significant historical events and personal milestones.
USS Taconic AGC-17: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Taconic (AGC-17) was a remarkable ship that saw many changes during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945, it was built to be an amphibious force flagship, packed with top-notch communication and command gear. Over the years, the Taconic got some serious tech upgrades, like cutting-edge radar systems and better navigation tools. These updates kept it sharp and ready for action in the ever-changing world of naval operations. The Navy made sure the Taconic could handle the latest challenges in naval warfare and command duties.
The Taconic was a powerhouse when it came to its mission. As an amphibious force flagship, it was like a floating command center, perfect for coordinating complex amphibious assaults and other naval missions. Its advanced communication systems made it easy to sync up with ground forces, air support, and other ships. This made the Taconic a key player in big exercises and real-world operations. Plus, its design meant it could quickly deploy and support amphibious forces, making it a vital part of amphibious warfare strategies.
Throughout its service, the Taconic made a big impact on the Navy's operations. It was crucial in many training exercises, helping sailors sharpen their skills and boost the effectiveness of amphibious missions. The ship was a strong command and control platform in various theaters, ensuring missions were carried out with precision and teamwork. The Taconic's knack for facilitating communication and command across different units and platforms was key to the success of many naval operations, whether in peacetime or conflict. It wasn't just about combat, though; the Taconic also played a big role in humanitarian missions, offering support and coordination during disaster relief efforts.
The legacy of the USS Taconic (AGC-17) is all about adaptability and long-lasting service. Its continuous upgrades kept it relevant and effective for the Navy over the years. The ship's mission capabilities and contributions highlight the crucial role of amphibious force flagships in modern naval warfare. The Taconic's ability to act as a command and control hub, along with its support for amphibious operations, underscores its importance in the Navy's strategic and tactical planning. The USS Taconic stands as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the U.S. Navy.
USS Taconic AGC-17: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Taconic (AGC-17) was a remarkable ship with a rich history. Commissioned in 1945, it was designed as an amphibious force flagship, a floating command center. It spent much of its early years in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, participating in training exercises and readiness operations. These missions were vital for keeping the U.S. Navy's amphibious forces sharp during the early Cold War.
When the Korean War broke out, the Taconic's role became even more crucial. As a command ship, it was the nerve center for communication and coordination among naval and ground units. Its advanced systems allowed it to manage complex operations, ensuring U.S. and allied forces could carry out their missions effectively. The Taconic's presence in Korea highlighted the importance of command ships in modern naval warfare, where coordination is key.
The USS Taconic was also celebrated for its outstanding service. It earned several awards, including the Navy Occupation Service Medal for its post-World War II duties and the National Defense Service Medal for its service during national emergencies. These honors reflected the ship's achievements and the dedication of its crew.
The legacy of the USS Taconic (AGC-17) is one of versatility and strategic importance. Its deployments showed how vital command ships are to the U.S. Navy. The awards it received are a testament to its impact and the crucial role it played in U.S. naval operations during a pivotal time in history. As a floating command center, the Taconic set a high standard for future naval command ships, blending advanced technology with skilled personnel.
USS Taconic AGC-17 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Mount Mckinley Class Command Ship |
| Commissioned | January 16, 1946 |
| Displacement | 12,550 tons |
| Length | 459.1 feet |
| Beam | 63 feet |
| Draft | 25 feet |
| Speed | 15 knots |
| Complement | 664 |