
The USS Leonard Wood was a ship with a rich history that dates back to World War II. It was named after General Leonard Wood, a prominent figure in the US Army.
Built in 1943, the USS Leonard Wood was a transport ship that played a crucial role in the war effort. The ship was designed to carry troops and supplies across the globe.
The USS Leonard Wood was part of the US Navy's fleet during World War II, participating in several key campaigns. Its cargo holds were used to transport vital supplies and equipment to troops fighting in the Pacific Theater.
The ship's crew was made up of skilled sailors and officers who worked tirelessly to keep the ship running smoothly.
WWII Service
The USS Leonard Wood played a significant role in World War II.
In November 1941, Leonard Wood departed Halifax, Nova Scotia, carrying reinforcements around the Cape of Good Hope to British outposts in the Far East.
She debarked troops at Bombay and Singapore before returning to the United States.
In March 1942, Leonard Wood entered the Philadelphia Navy Yard for conversion to an attack transport.
Leonard Wood was redesignated APA-12 on 2 February 1943.
Saipan
The USS Leonard Wood played a significant role in the capture and occupation of Saipan, Marianas Islands.
Leonard Wood departed Pearl Harbor on 29 May 1944, bound for the capture and occupation of Saipan. This marked the beginning of the ship's involvement in the invasion.
Arriving at Eniwetok, Marshall Islands, Leonard Wood fueled, watered, and provisioned before departing 11 June for her assigned anchorage off Saipan. This stop was crucial for the ship's success in the invasion.
Leonard Wood unloaded and cleared all boats in 49 minutes upon arriving 15 June. This impressive feat showcased the ship's efficiency and preparedness.
For the next 9 days, the transport stood off Saipan, unloading cargo and receiving on board casualties for transfer to hospital ships. The ship's crew worked tirelessly to support the invasion efforts.
The transport sailed 24 June for Eniwetok, and then returned to Pearl Harbor on 20 July. This marked the end of Leonard Wood's involvement in the invasion of Saipan.
Palau
The USS Leonard Wood played a significant role in the capture and occupation of Angaur Island, Palau Island Group.
The ship sailed from Guadalcanal on September 8th to participate in the invasion.
After arriving on September 7th, the Leonard Wood landed troops and began unloading cargo.
The unloading process was completed on September 21st, and the ship then departed for Manus Island on September 27th.
Decommission and History
The USS Leonard Wood had a remarkable career spanning over 20 years, from its commissioning in 1945 to its decommissioning in 1969. It was built at the Moore Shipbuilding Company in Oakland, California.
The ship was named after General Leonard Wood, a renowned military leader who played a significant role in the Spanish-American War. He was a highly decorated officer and a pioneer in the field of tropical medicine.
In 1969, the USS Leonard Wood was decommissioned at the Naval Station Long Beach in California, marking the end of its service.
Ship Details
The USS Leonard Wood was a Casablanca-class escort carrier that served in the United States Navy during World War II. It was named after General Leonard Wood, a prominent figure in the US Army.
The ship was laid down on January 20, 1943, at the Kaiser Shipbuilding Company in Vancouver, Washington. It was launched on May 16, 1943, and commissioned on June 15, 1944.
The USS Leonard Wood had a length of 512 feet 3 inches and a beam of 65 feet 2 inches. Its draft was 22 feet 6 inches, and it had a tonnage of 10,400 tons.
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