About this Unit
USS AMPHION (AR-13) was a repair ship of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1946 shortly after World War II. Initially assigned to the Atlantic Fleet, Amphion provided vital repair and maintenance services to naval vessels, significantly enhancing fleet readiness during the Cold War era. She was deployed to the Mediterranean numerous times, supporting the 6th Fleet and participating in various NATO exercises. After decades of distinguished service, Amphion was decommissioned in 1971 and later transferred to the Venezuelan Navy, where she continued her service as ARV Los Llanos (T-21).
Historical Facts
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Origins and Construction: USS Amphion (AR-13) was originally laid down as SS Sea Panther, a C3 cargo ship, before being acquired and converted by the U.S. Navy at the tail end of World War II.
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Commissioning Date: Amphion was commissioned as a repair ship on 8 January 1946, just after the end of World War II.
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Service Role: As a repair ship, Amphion's primary mission was to provide maintenance, repair, and support to the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, servicing a wide array of naval vessels.
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Homeport: For much of her service, Amphion was homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, a major hub for the Atlantic Fleet.
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Cold War Operations: Amphion played a significant support role during the Cold War, providing crucial repair services during fleet exercises and operations in the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.
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Mediterranean Deployments: The ship regularly deployed with the 6th Fleet, supporting U.S. naval operations in the Mediterranean, including during the tense periods of the late 1940s and 1950s.
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Hurricane Relief: In 1954, Amphion assisted in relief efforts after Hurricane Hazel, aiding recovery operations along the U.S. East Coast.
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Vietnam War Service: While primarily an Atlantic Fleet asset, Amphion also served as a repair and support ship during the Vietnam War era, helping maintain the readiness of deployed vessels.
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Awards: For her service, Amphion received several commendations, including the Navy Occupation Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.
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Decommissioning and Fate: USS Amphion was decommissioned on 15 September 1971 and subsequently transferred to the Iranian Navy, where she served as IIS Chah Bahar until the early 1990s.
