About this Unit
USS Yosemite (AD-19) was a Dixie-class destroyer tender commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. Throughout World War II, she provided vital repair and maintenance services to the Pacific Fleet, supporting operations at advanced bases such as Ulithi and Leyte. After the war, Yosemite continued her service, supporting fleet operations during the Korean War and the Vietnam War, as well as during peacetime deployments in the Atlantic and Mediterranean. She was finally decommissioned in 1994 after 50 years of distinguished service, earning multiple awards for her essential support roles.
Historical Facts
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Commissioned in WWII: USS Yosemite (AD-19) was commissioned on March 25, 1944, serving as a destroyer tender to support the fleet during World War II.
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Namesake: The ship was named after Yosemite National Park, following the US Navy tradition of naming tenders after national parks.
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Pacific Theater Service: During WWII, Yosemite provided repair and logistical support in key Pacific locations, including Eniwetok and Ulithi, helping keep the US fleet operational.
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Flagship Duties: Yosemite served as the flagship for Commander, Destroyers, Pacific Fleet, underscoring its central role in fleet operations.
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Korean and Vietnam Wars: The ship continued her service through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing vital repair and maintenance services to US Navy ships.
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Homeport in Newport: For much of her career post-WWII, Yosemite was homeported in Newport, Rhode Island, becoming a familiar sight and support hub for the Atlantic Fleet.
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Longest Serving Destroyer Tender: At her decommissioning in 1994, Yosemite was recognized as the last active destroyer tender in the US Navy, capping 50 years of service.
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‘Busy Lady’ Nickname: Crew and sailors affectionately referred to her as the “Busy Lady” due to her constant activity and support roles throughout her long career.
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Hurricane Andrew Relief: In 1992, Yosemite provided disaster relief and support to Miami, Florida, after Hurricane Andrew, showcasing her versatility beyond wartime operations.
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Preserved Legacy: After decommissioning, many of Yosemite’s artifacts and memorabilia were preserved by veteran associations, and her legacy is commemorated by former crew and naval historians.
