USNS Phoenix (T-AG-172)

USNS "Phoenix" (T-AG-172) was a "Phoenix"-class miscellaneous auxiliary acquired by the U.S. Navy in 1962, crewed by a civilian crew from the Military Sea Transportation Service, and sent to the Philippines to serve as a floating depot. "Phoenix" remained in the Philippines, issuing parts and other supplies, until the early 1970s, being struck by the Navy in 1973.

Victory ship built in Oregon

"Phoenix" was laid down under U.S. Maritime Commission contract as "Capital Victory" (MCV–183) 27 February 1945 by Oregon Shipbuilding Corporation, Portland, Oregon; launched 10 April 1945; sponsored by Mrs. Chester It. Kinmon and delivered 8 May 1945.

Assigned to the U.S. Navy

Renamed "Arizona" in 1948, the cargo ship was renamed "Phoenix" for Navy use 20 November 1962 and classified "AG–172" the same day; acquired by the Navy from the Maritime Administration 25 November 1962; assigned to the Military Sea Transportation Service (M.S.T.S.) and manned by a civil service crew in July 1963.

A floating depot ship

The special project ship, with "Cheyenne" (T-AG–174) and "Provo" (T-AG–173) was stationed in Subic Bay, Philippines as forward floating depots. The utility of such depots was demonstrated in 1964 by the excellent performance of these ships in Operation Quick Release. In 1965 "Phoenix" began general cargo operation under Commander, M.S.T.S. in the Far East and with a Korean crew continued this duty until 1970.

Inactivation

"Phoenix" was transferred to the U.S. Maritime Commission, and was sold 31 August 1973. Her subsequent fate is not known.

See also

* United States Navy
* World War II
* Vietnam War

References

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* [http://www.navsource.org/archives/09/49/49172.htm NavSource Online: Service Ship Photo Archive - T-AG-172 Phoenix]