List of United States Navy hospital ships

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List of United States Navy Hospital Ships details the vessels designated for medical support and treatment of the United States Navy personnel, allies, and, at times, civilians during conflicts, humanitarian missions, and other military operations. The concept of hospital ships dates back to the 17th century, but the formal integration into the U.S. Navy began in the 19th century. These ships are painted white with large red crosses to denote their protected status under the Geneva Convention, making them non-combatant vessels during wartime.

History

The history of United States Navy hospital ships begins in the Civil War, with vessels like the USS Red Rover serving as the first commissioned hospital ship in the U.S. Navy. Throughout the years, the role and number of these ships have evolved, reflecting changes in military strategy, medical technology, and international humanitarian law.

List of Ships

This section outlines notable hospital ships that have served in the U.S. Navy, categorized by the conflicts during which they were active.

Civil War

• USS Red Rover: The first U.S. Navy hospital ship, serving from 1862.

Spanish-American War

• USS Relief: Served during the Spanish-American War and later periods.

World War I

• USS Comfort (AH-3): Served in World War I, providing critical medical care.
• USS Mercy (AH-4): Another key hospital ship of World War I.

World War II

• USS Comfort (AH-6): Notable for her service in the Pacific Theater.
• USS Hope (AH-7): Served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters.
• USS Mercy (AH-8): Provided support in the Pacific Theater.
• USS Solace (AH-5): Known for being at Pearl Harbor during the attack in 1941.

Korean War

• USS Haven (AH-12): Active during the Korean War, providing medical care to UN forces.
• USS Repose (AH-16): Also served in the Korean War and later in Vietnam.

Vietnam War

• USS Sanctuary (AH-17): Provided medical services during the Vietnam War.
• USS Repose (AH-16): Continued service from the Korean War into the Vietnam War.

Post-Cold War

• USNS Comfort (T-AH-20): Has been involved in numerous humanitarian missions and disaster responses.
• USNS Mercy (T-AH-19): Similar to Comfort, Mercy has been deployed for humanitarian aid around the globe.

Design and Capabilities

Hospital ships are equipped with a wide range of medical facilities, including operating rooms, intensive care units, and beds for patients. They are staffed by Navy medical personnel and can provide a variety of services, from surgery to dental care. The design of these ships allows them to offer comprehensive medical care in environments where local healthcare facilities are unavailable or overwhelmed.

Legal Status and Protection

Under the Geneva Convention, hospital ships are designated as non-combatant vessels, offering them protection from attack. They must be clearly marked and lighted to ensure their protected status is visible. Despite this, there have been instances in history where hospital ships were attacked, violating international law.

Current Status

As of the last update, the USNS Comfort and USNS Mercy remain active in the U.S. Navy's fleet, serving as floating medical treatment facilities. Their missions include providing emergency on-site care during military operations, supporting humanitarian missions, and aiding in disaster relief efforts worldwide.

See Also

• Military medicine
• Geneva Convention
• United States Navy