USS DuPage (APB-51) was a self-propelled barracks ship of the United States Navy, built during World War II and operated in a non-commissioned status from 1951 to 1959. She was the second U.S. Navy vessel named for DuPage County, Illinois.
Construction and Early Service
The ship was laid down on December 9, 1942, as the Liberty ship SS John W. Weeks (EC2-S-C1 design) by the Oregon Shipbuilding Company. She was launched on January 2, 1943, and delivered to the War Shipping Administration for operation under contract to the U.S. Army Transportation Service. During this period, she served as a cargo or transport vessel for the Army.
U.S. Navy Acquisition and Conversion
In 1951, the ship was acquired by the U.S. Navy and converted into a self-propelled barracks ship, designated APB-51. She was placed in service (not formally commissioned) as USS DuPage (APB-51). As a barracks ship, she provided living quarters and support services for personnel at advanced bases in the Pacific area. Her accommodations could house up to 990 troops.
Operational History
DuPage operated in a non-commissioned status under the Navy's Special Services, providing berthing, messing, and recreational facilities for personnel assigned to advanced bases in the Pacific region during the 1951–1959 period. She served primarily in the western Pacific, including time spent in reserve at Briggs Bay, Yokosuka, Japan.
Decommissioning and Fate
The ship was placed out of service in 1959 and returned to the Maritime Administration for disposal. She was scrapped later that year.
General Characteristics
- Type: EC2-S-C1 (Liberty ship conversion)
- Displacement: 4,023 tons light; 11,565 tons full load
- Length: 441 ft 6 in (134.57 m)
- Beam: 56 ft 11 in (17.35 m)
- Draft: 28 ft 4 in (8.64 m)
- Propulsion: Reciprocating steam engine, single shaft, 1,950 shp
- Speed: 12 knots
- Complement: 151
- Armament: None
- Troop Capacity: Up to 990
Awards
- National Defense Service Medal
References
- This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.
- Photo gallery of USS DuPage (APB-51) at NavSource Naval History.
