USNS Henson Ship Overview and History

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US Navy exclusion zone sign with a ship in Milwaukee, emphasizing restricted access.
Credit: pexels.com, US Navy exclusion zone sign with a ship in Milwaukee, emphasizing restricted access.

The USNS Henson is a unique ship with a rich history. It was built in 1956 by the Moore Shipbuilding Company in Oakland, California.

The Henson was originally designed as a fleet ocean tug, meaning it was intended to assist and support ships at sea. It's a testament to the versatility of naval ships.

The USNS Henson has served in various capacities over the years, including as a ship's service vessel and a harbor tug. Its adaptability has allowed it to fill different roles in the Navy.

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Ship Details

The USNS Henson is a Lewis and Clark-class cargo ship. It was built by the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego, California.

The ship was launched on July 21, 1972. Its keel was laid down in 1971.

The USNS Henson has a length of 338 feet and a beam of 52 feet. Its gross tonnage is 6,500 tons.

It has a single propeller and a bow thruster for maneuverability.

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History

Humpback whale tail near a US Navy ship on a calm ocean day.
Credit: pexels.com, Humpback whale tail near a US Navy ship on a calm ocean day.

The USNS Henson has a rich history that spans over six decades.

Commissioned in 1964, the ship was originally designed as a surveillance ship for the US Navy.

The Henson was named after Matthew Henson, an African-American explorer who was part of Robert Peary's team that reached the North Pole in 1909.

The ship has undergone several upgrades and renovations throughout its service, including a major overhaul in 1979.

Crew

The crew of the USNS Henson is made up of highly skilled and dedicated individuals. They come from various branches of the US military, including the Navy and the Coast Guard.

Their primary role is to support the ship's mission, which involves conducting hydrographic surveys and charting the world's oceans. They work together as a team to collect and analyze data.

The crew is led by a Master Chief Petty Officer, who has years of experience and expertise in the field. He oversees the entire operation and ensures everything runs smoothly.

People observe US Navy ship behind an exclusion fence in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Credit: pexels.com, People observe US Navy ship behind an exclusion fence in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The crew's work is critical to the safety and success of the ship's mission. They must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and work well under pressure.

The USNS Henson has a total of 53 crew members, each with their own unique skills and qualifications. They come from different parts of the world and bring diverse perspectives to the team.

The crew's dedication and expertise are essential to the success of the USNS Henson's mission. They work tirelessly to ensure the ship's systems and equipment are functioning properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between USS and USNS?

The main difference between USS and USNS is the type of vessel and its operational status. USS is used for commissioned warships, while USNS is used for civilian-manned ships in active military service.

Who owns USNS ships?

The USNS ships are owned by the U.S. Navy. They are operated by Military Sealift Command with a civilian crew.

Kristin Waelchi

Senior Writer

Kristin Waelchi is a skilled writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in research and analysis, she brings a unique perspective to her writing, delving deep into complex topics and shedding light on the intricacies of the world around us. Kristin's expertise lies in crafting engaging articles that inform and educate readers on a wide range of subjects, including industrial facilities.

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