USNS Lt. James E. Robinson Ship Name and Operations History

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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 Lt. James E. Robinson is a versatile and reliable ship with a rich history. It was named after Lieutenant James E. Robinson, a Medal of Honor recipient.

This ship is a T-AK-301 class cargo ship, designed to transport supplies and equipment to various locations around the world. It's a vital asset for the US military.

The USNS Lt. James E. Robinson has been involved in numerous operations throughout its career, supporting troops in various parts of the globe.

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Ship Name and Designation History Revised: Ship Name and History

The USNS Lt. James E. Robinson has had a few name changes throughout its history.

The ship was originally designated as T-AK-305, but its designation was later changed to T-AK-3051.

The USNS Lt. James E. Robinson was named after Lieutenant James E. Robinson, a naval aviator who was killed in action during the Vietnam War.

It's a fitting tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Lieutenant Robinson.

The ship's design is based on the Haskell-class attack cargo ship, which was a class of ships built during World War II.

The Haskell-class ships were designed to transport troops and supplies, and they played a crucial role in many military operations.

Post-War Service

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 Lt. James E. Robinson played a significant role in post-war service, operating out of U.S. East Coast ports, primarily New York City.

She made regular runs to ports in West Germany and the British Isles, establishing a pattern of Mediterranean and western European cruises that would continue for the next 7 years.

In 1953, she expanded her operations to include a supply and logistics run to the Mediterranean, visiting Greece, Turkey, and Trieste.

During the summer months of August 1955, August-September 1956, and July-October 1958, she carried cargo to Thule Air Base, Greenland, in support of military defense construction projects.

Late in 1958, she ventured further into international waters, cruising to ports in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Persian Gulf before returning to New York City in January 1959.

Operations

The USNS Lt. James E. Robinson was involved in some significant operations during the Vietnam era. She was reclassified as AK-274 in May 1959.

Credit: youtube.com, 1965 Amphibious Assault Operations -- USN training film

In August 1960, she set off from New York, bound for Saigon, South Vietnam, carrying cargo for the American military effort. This journey took her through Formosa, South Korea, and Japan.

She made a stop on the U.S. West Coast before returning to New York in November 1960. From there, she resumed her transatlantic cargo service in December 1960.

Gretchen Gerhold

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Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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