USS Mathews (AKA-96)

• USS Mathews (AKA-96) Namesake: The USS Mathews was named after Mathews County, Virginia, following the tradition of naming attack cargo ships after U.S. counties. • World War II Service: Commissioned in March 1945, Mathews was deployed to the Pacific Theater where she transported cargo and troops supporting the final stages of World War II. • Operation Magic Carpet: After Japan’s surrender, Mathews was assigned to “Operation Magic Carpet,” returning thousands of American service members home from the Pacific. • Korean War Duty: Reactivated for the Korean War, she played a critical role in transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to the Korean Peninsula. • Vietnam War Involvement: USS Mathews also served in the Vietnam War, providing vital logistical support, transporting troops, and delivering cargo during multiple deployments. • Humanitarian Missions: The ship was involved in several peacetime and humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the Pacific. • Amphibious Operations: As an attack cargo ship, Mathews was specially equipped to support amphibious assaults, carrying landing craft and vehicles for rapid deployment. • Crew Nickname: The crew affectionately referred to the ship as “The Mighty Mathews,” highlighting their pride and camaraderie aboard the vessel. • Final Decommissioning: After a long and distinguished career, the USS Mathews was decommissioned in 1968 and later sold for scrap, marking the end of her service. • Awards and Honors: The ship earned multiple battle stars for her participation in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, reflecting her extensive and varied service.