Intro
Delve into the storied past of the USS Emory S. Land, a U.S. Navy ship with a rich history of service and innovation. From its inception as a submarine tender to its pivotal role in naval operations, discover the key events, technological advancements, and milestones that defined this vessels remarkable career.
The USS Emory S. Land, a submarine tender that served the United States Navy from 1971 to 2007, has a rich and storied history that spans over three decades. The ship was named after Rear Admiral Emory S. Land, a pioneering naval officer who played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. submarine force during World War II. In this article, we will delve into the history of the USS Emory S. Land, exploring its design and construction, its operational history, and its eventual decommissioning.
Design and Construction
The USS Emory S. Land was designed to provide maintenance and support services to submarines, allowing them to remain at sea for extended periods. The ship was built by the Lockheed Shipbuilding and Construction Company in Seattle, Washington, and was commissioned on August 7, 1971. The Emory S. Land was the first of three ships in the Emory S. Land class, which included the USS Canopus and the USS Frank Cable.
Ship Specifications
- Length: 644 feet (196 meters)
- Beam: 85 feet (26 meters)
- Draft: 29 feet (9 meters)
- Displacement: 23,884 tons
- Speed: 18 knots (33 km/h)
- Crew: 1,400 officers and enlisted personnel
Operational History
The USS Emory S. Land spent most of its operational career serving in the Pacific Fleet, providing support to submarines operating in the western Pacific. The ship was equipped with a range of facilities, including machine shops, foundries, and medical facilities, which allowed it to provide comprehensive support to submarines. The Emory S. Land also served as a flagship for several submarine squadron commanders, providing command and control facilities for submarine operations.
Major Deployments
- 1972: Deployed to the western Pacific, providing support to submarines operating in the vicinity of Vietnam.
- 1975: Participated in the recovery of the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, a joint U.S.-Soviet space mission.
- 1980s: Provided support to submarines operating in the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf.
- 1990s: Participated in several exercises and operations, including the annual Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.
Decommissioning and Disposal
The USS Emory S. Land was decommissioned on September 30, 2007, after 36 years of service. The ship was subsequently transferred to the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where it was placed in reserve. In 2012, the Emory S. Land was sold for scrapping to the International Shipbreaking Limited company, which broke the ship down into its component parts for recycling.
Legacy
The USS Emory S. Land played a significant role in the U.S. Navy's submarine force, providing critical support to submarines operating around the world. The ship's legacy extends beyond its operational career, however, as it also served as a symbol of American military power and a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.
USS Emory S. Land Image Gallery
What was the primary mission of the USS Emory S. Land?
+The primary mission of the USS Emory S. Land was to provide maintenance and support services to submarines, allowing them to remain at sea for extended periods.
How long did the USS Emory S. Land serve in the U.S. Navy?
+The USS Emory S. Land served in the U.S. Navy for 36 years, from 1971 to 2007.
What was the fate of the USS Emory S. Land after decommissioning?
+The USS Emory S. Land was sold for scrapping to the International Shipbreaking Limited company in 2012, and was broken down into its component parts for recycling.
As we reflect on the history of the USS Emory S. Land, we are reminded of the important role that this ship played in supporting the U.S. Navy's submarine force. From its design and construction to its operational career and eventual decommissioning, the Emory S. Land served as a testament to American military power and ingenuity.