USS Union AKA-106
The USS Union (AKA-106) was a Tolland-class attack cargo ship built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. It was laid down on December 15, 1944, in Wilmington, North Carolina, by the North Carolina Shipbuilding Company. The ship launched on February 17, 1945, and was commissioned on March 25, 1945, with Commander J. E. Murphy, USNR, at the helm. This ship was part of a larger effort to boost the Navy's logistical capabilities during the war, ensuring troops and equipment could be efficiently moved to various theaters.
Named after Union County, the USS Union followed the Tolland-class tradition of being named after U.S. counties. Union County exists in several states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, and New Jersey. This naming convention aimed to create a sense of pride and connection between the ship and the American public, honoring the contributions of these counties to the nation's history.
The USS Union had standout features like robust cargo-handling equipment, crucial for its mission of transporting and offloading cargo during amphibious operations. It was equipped with booms and winches for heavy loads and spacious cargo holds for various equipment, vehicles, and supplies. The ship also had anti-aircraft guns to defend against enemy aircraft, highlighting its multifaceted operational role.
The USS Union's legacy in the Navy is marked by its contributions to key operations. Though commissioned towards the end of World War II, it played a vital role in post-war activities, including Japan's occupation and the repatriation of American troops. Its ability to efficiently transport and deploy cargo and personnel made it an invaluable asset during these critical times, showcasing the importance of logistical support in naval operations.
As a Tolland-class attack cargo ship, the USS Union was designed for amphibious warfare. These ships were meant to carry troops, heavy equipment, and supplies directly to combat zones for quick offloading to support ground operations. The Tolland-class ships were a key part of the Navy's amphibious forces, providing the logistical backbone needed for successful assaults and sustained operations in hostile environments.
The commissioning of the USS Union on March 25, 1945, marked the start of its service life, which included various missions and operations. The crew, a mix of seasoned sailors and newly trained personnel, worked hard to ensure the ship was ready for any task. The commissioning ceremony was a moment of pride and anticipation as the ship and its crew prepared to join the fleet and contribute to the Navy's efforts during a pivotal time in history.
USS Union AKA-106: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Union (AKA-106) was a Tolland-class attack cargo ship, known for its sturdy and adaptable design. It stretched 459 feet long and had a beam of 63 feet, offering plenty of room for cargo and troops. Built with welded steel, the hull was strong and durable, perfect for the tough conditions of wartime. The ship's design focused on efficiency, with multiple cargo holds and hatches for quick loading and unloading. Heavy-duty cranes and winches were on board to handle everything from vehicles to ammunition.
For its time, the USS Union boasted cutting-edge navigation and communication systems. It had radar and sonar, crucial for navigation and spotting threats. The radar helped the crew see other ships and obstacles even in bad weather, while sonar was key for detecting mines and submarines. Advanced radio gear kept the ship in touch with other naval units and command centers, ensuring smooth operations in different maritime settings.
When it came to defense, the USS Union was ready to protect itself from air and surface threats. It had a 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose gun, effective against both aircraft and surface targets. This gun was a big part of the ship's defense, keeping it and its cargo safe. The ship also had anti-aircraft guns like 40mm Bofors and 20mm Oerlikon cannons, which were vital for fending off enemy planes during amphibious missions.
The USS Union's weaponry was matched by its ability to deploy landing craft and amphibious vehicles, key to its main job of moving and landing troops and gear. It carried several LCVPs (Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel) and LCMs (Landing Craft, Mechanized) to transport troops and cargo from ship to shore during assaults. These landing craft were crucial for quick and efficient force deployment, making the USS Union a powerful player in the Navy's amphibious warfare strategy.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Union (AKA-106) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span from the ship's post-World War II service to its final decommissioning, capturing a vivid tapestry of camaraderie, duty, and life at sea.
Peter Bertram, who served as a Signalman 3rd Class in 1946, fondly recalls the friendships he formed within the Signal Gang, Radio, Radar, Electronic, and Quartermaster Divisions. His naval career continued with service in Korea aboard the USS Mountrail (APA-213) from 1950 to 1952.
Charles Boyd, an Engineman 3rd Class in 1965, now resides in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he works as the Chief Engineer at SunBay Resort. He remembers serving alongside shipmates Batt, Marks, Carrol, Shattek, and Peterson.
David Cleveland, who served as a Personnelman in 1968, notes the Union's inclusion in the 2012 list of ships exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War. He inquires if any fellow crew members have experienced health issues related to this exposure.
Dale Daniels, a Radioman 3rd Class in 1969, joined the Union in Yokosuka during its last cruise. He remained aboard until the ship returned to San Diego in early 1970 for decommissioning.
Ken Felton, a Lieutenant in 1956, reflects on his time aboard the Union as one of the best periods of his 6.5 years of active duty and 20 years in the reserves. He served under three captains and two executive officers, participating in two WestPac tours and two shipyard overhauls.
Roger Gershaw, an Engineman 3rd Class in 1956, was part of A Division and responsible for LCVP or LCM craft. He also stood evaporator and Shaft alley watches.
Danny Green, a Signalman 3rd Class in 1967, shares information about an Amphibious Ships Reunion in Buffalo, NY, in September 2019, which includes the Union.
Norman Hall, an Electronics Technician 3rd Class in 1963, recalls his time with the ET Gang, including Lutz Moeckel, Ray, and Jerry. He mentions Ensign Berdein, who may have been the Operations Division Manager or ET Manager.
Lee Jacobsen, a Signalman 3rd Class in 1963, expresses a desire to reconnect with shipmates from 1963 to 1967, especially those with Type 2 Diabetes. He specifically asks about Art Foster.
James K. Jahr, a Disbursing Clerk 3rd Class in 1961, reminisces about playing basketball and softball with shipmates. He participated in two WestPac cruises, the Cuban blockade, and the Pribilof Island resupply mission.
Lawson Key, a Seaman in 1957, is remembered posthumously by his brother, Lerchen L. Key, who reports Lawson's passing in 2011.
Ron Miller, a Radarman 2nd Class in 1968, joined the Union in Vietnam and was part of the decommissioning crew. He seeks to reconnect with shipmates, including ET Carl & Sue Nash, and other RDs, Signalmen, and Nav and RM personnel.
Bill Mitchell, a Seaman in 1960, recalls his time in the Navigation Department, participating in two WestPac tours, the Pribilof Island resupply, and the Cuban Missile Crisis. He shares his post-naval career, which included working at the GM proving grounds and as a cross-country driver.
Tony Ponce, a Machinist's Mate 3rd Class in 1957, remembers his close friends Forrest Lee Trindle, Robert Bunnell, Duncan, Jennings, Guthrie, Merryman, and Chief Lynch.
Steve Sammler, a Seaman in 1963, reflects on the life lessons and boating skills he acquired, which served him well when he lived aboard his own 44' trimaran for five years.
John Schunn, a Radioman 1st Class in 1967, recalls his friendship with fellow Radioman Arnie Derrickson, who was his best man at his first wedding. He initially served as an E-4 Communications Yeoman before leaving the ship in Okinawa.
Tom Turnbull, an Engineman 3rd Class in 1967, seeks to reconnect with engineering department shipmates from 1967-68, including Wm Turner, KP Marks, John Warfield, Bobby Shatek, and Wayne L. Carroll. He mentions the passing of a shipmate known as "Animal" due to Agent Orange-related cancer.
Joseph Yurso, a Lieutenant in 1960, recounts the Union's two WestPac deployments and a mission to the Pribilof Islands during his tenure. He notes that the ship spent more time in Hong Kong than in its homeport of San Diego and served under three commanding officers.
These shared memories paint a rich and diverse picture of life aboard the USS Union (AKA-106), highlighting the enduring bonds formed and the significant experiences that shaped the lives of its crew members.
USS Union AKA-106: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Union (AKA-106) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, known for its adaptability and service. Commissioned in 1945, it was built for amphibious assault missions, a cutting-edge capability back then. Over time, the Union got some impressive upgrades, like better radar and communication systems. These improvements kept it relevant and ready for action in different maritime settings.
The Union was a jack-of-all-trades. As an attack cargo ship, it was designed to get troops, vehicles, and supplies right onto enemy shores. It could carry various landing craft, like LCVPs and LCMs, crucial for amphibious operations. Its cargo holds were versatile, too, handling everything from heavy artillery to medical supplies. This made it perfect for both combat and humanitarian missions.
During its service, the USS Union was a key player, especially after World War II and into the Cold War. It was vital in amphibious exercises, helping the Navy fine-tune tactics for beach landings and coastal assaults. The Union's ability to quickly deploy and support ground forces was invaluable, particularly during the Korean War. It showed just how effective amphibious warfare could be and highlighted the importance of logistics in mission success.
But the Union wasn't just about combat. It also shone in peacetime missions, proving its versatility and reliability. The ship was involved in disaster relief, delivering aid to areas hit by natural disasters. Its ability to quickly move large amounts of goods and people made it perfect for humanitarian efforts. Plus, its participation in joint exercises with allied navies helped boost international cooperation and the Navy's overall readiness. Through all these roles, the USS Union (AKA-106) left a lasting legacy as a cornerstone of naval operations and a testament to the value of amphibious assault ships.
USS Union AKA-106: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Union (AKA-106) was a remarkable ship with a storied history in the U.S. Navy. She was commissioned in 1945 as a Tolland-class attack cargo ship, built to transport and deploy troops, equipment, and supplies during amphibious assaults. Her first major mission came at the end of World War II, where she supported operations in the Pacific, including the occupation of Japan. Her ability to handle cargo and deploy landing craft quickly made her a key player in ensuring that vital supplies reached their destinations.
After World War II, Union didn't just fade into the background. She took on new roles during the post-war period, helping stabilize Japan and China. When the Korean War erupted, Union was back in action. She was crucial in several amphibious operations, including the famous Inchon Landing. Her knack for delivering troops and equipment right to the shore under fire was a game-changer, proving just how important attack cargo ships were in modern warfare.
Union's service didn't go unnoticed. She earned several awards, including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal for her World War II service and the Korean Service Medal with multiple battle stars for her Korean War efforts. She also received the Navy Occupation Service Medal for her work in Asia after the war. These honors highlight not just the ship's operational success but also the courage and dedication of her crew, who faced tough and often dangerous conditions.
In 1955, USS Union was decommissioned and placed in the reserve fleet, but her legacy lives on. She stands as a testament to the critical role attack cargo ships played in the Navy's amphibious operations. Her story underscores the importance of logistical support in achieving military goals and maintaining global peace. USS Union's history is a powerful reminder of the versatility and effectiveness of naval forces in both war and peace.
USS Union AKA-106 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Tolland Class Attack Cargo Ship |
| Commissioned | April 25, 1945 |
| Displacement | 14,160 tons |
| Length | 459.2 feet |
| Beam | 63 feet |
| Draft | 26.4 feet |
| Speed | 16.5 knots |
| Complement | 425 |