USS Caliente (AO-53)
The USS Caliente (AO-53) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler built during World War II for the U.S. Navy. During her career in the Pacific Ocean, Caliente participated in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. She was highly decorated for fulfilling her dangerous mission of carrying fuel into battle areas. She received 10 battle stars for World War II, 4 for the Korean War and 8 campaign stars for the Vietnam War.
The auxiliary oiler was built by Bethlehem Sparrows Point Shipyard as a type T3-S2-A1 fast petroleum carrier (Maritime Commission contract MC hull 719), and was laid down at Sparrows Point, Maryland, on 2 January 1943. She was launched 25 August 1943; sponsored by Mrs. Helen Essary, widow of noted American journalist, J Frederick Essary; and commissioned 22 October 1943, Commander E. G. Genthner, USNR, in command.
Read more about USS Caliente (AO-53): World War II Pacific Theatre Operations, Supporting Ships of The Invasion of Saipan, Sinking of The Mississinewa, Supporting Philippine Invasion Forces, End-of-War Activity, Cold War Activity, Korean War Operations, Supporting Vietnam Evacuation and Atomic Testing, Vietnam War Operations, Operation LONGEX 1968, Shadowing The Soviets, Operation HUKASWEX 4-70, Bay of Bengal Operations, Decommissioning and Disposition, Awards