USS CAMBRIA APA-36

• Namesake: USS Cambria (APA-36) was named after Cambria County, Pennsylvania, following the tradition of naming attack transports after counties in the United States. • Class and Type: She was a Bayfield-class attack transport, designed to carry troops and landing craft for amphibious operations during World War II. • World War II Service: USS Cambria participated in five major amphibious landings: Kwajalein, Saipan, Leyte, Lingayen Gulf, and Okinawa, making her a veteran of some of the most important Pacific battles. • Kamikaze Attack Survivor: During the invasion of Okinawa in April 1945, Cambria came under heavy air attack and survived kamikaze threats, demonstrating the resilience and skill of her crew. • Transported Notable Units: She carried elements of the 4th Marine Division for the assault on Saipan and later transported Army units for the liberation of the Philippines. • Post-War "Magic Carpet" Duty: After WWII, Cambria took part in Operation Magic Carpet, bringing thousands of American servicemen home from the Pacific. • Korean War Service: Reactivated for the Korean War, Cambria carried troops and supplies to support United Nations operations and participated in amphibious training exercises. • Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, USS Cambria was part of the U.S. naval forces during the Cuban Missile Crisis, helping to enforce the naval "quarantine" of Cuba. • Humanitarian Missions: The ship conducted several humanitarian missions, including disaster relief in the Caribbean, reflecting the Navy's wider peacetime role. • Decorations and Honors: USS Cambria received six battle stars for World War II service and two for action during the Korean War, a testament to her long and distinguished career.