USS Colleton

USS Colleton (APB-36) with Armoured Troop Carriers in Vietnam c1968

USS Colleton (APB-36) was a United States Navy Benewah-class self-propelled barracks ship that served during the Vietnam War. The ship was named after Colleton County, South Carolina, reflecting the Navy's tradition of naming ships after locations. The USS Colleton played a crucial role in providing mobile support and logistics to riverine and coastal operations, particularly those conducted by the Brown Water Navy and other riverine assault forces.

Design and Construction

The USS Colleton was part of the Benewah-class, a group of self-propelled barracks ships designed to offer direct support to combat operations in shallow and riverine environments. These ships were equipped with facilities to accommodate hundreds of troops, providing them with essential services such as sleeping quarters, dining facilities, and medical care. The design also included a helicopter deck for vertical replenishment and troop movement, enhancing the ship's operational flexibility.

Service History

Commissioned in the mid-20th century, the USS Colleton was initially tasked with supporting naval operations in coastal and riverine areas. Her primary mission was to serve as a mobile base for patrol boats, helicopters, and riverine assault craft. This mission was critical during the Vietnam War, where traditional naval bases were not always accessible or practical due to the geography and nature of the conflict.

During the Vietnam War, the USS Colleton was stationed in the Mekong Delta and other strategic locations, providing a forward base of operations for the Mobile Riverine Force. The ship's presence allowed for extended patrols and operations, significantly contributing to the United States' military efforts in the region. The USS Colleton supported various combat and logistical operations, playing a vital role in the riverine warfare strategy that was pivotal in countering Viet Cong guerrilla tactics.

Decommissioning and Fate

After years of service, including extensive operations in Vietnam, the USS Colleton was decommissioned from active service. The ship's legacy continues through the memories of those who served aboard her and the historical significance of her contributions to naval warfare and riverine operations. The fate of the USS Colleton post-decommissioning varies, as many ships of this era were either scrapped, sunk as reefs, or transferred to allied nations under military assistance programs.

Legacy

The USS Colleton's service highlights the importance of versatile and mobile support platforms in modern naval warfare, especially in unconventional and guerrilla warfare environments like those encountered in Vietnam. The ship's contributions to the Mobile Riverine Force and the broader naval strategy during the Vietnam War underscore the critical role of naval logistics and support in combat operations.