The USS Sebec (AO-87) was a Cimarron-class fleet oiler of the United States Navy, serving during and after World War II, through the Korean War, and into the Cold War. The ship was named after the Sebec River in Maine.
Construction and Commissioning: Sebec (AO-87) was laid down on 21 September 1943 by the Bethlehem-Sparrows Point Shipyard, Sparrows Point, Maryland, under a Maritime Commission contract (MC hull 725). She was launched on 26 February 1944, sponsored by Mrs. V. V. Saunders, and commissioned on 28 April 1944, with Commander George W. Scott in command.
World War II Service: After shakedown training in Chesapeake Bay, Sebec departed Norfolk, Virginia, on 15 June 1944 for the Pacific. She transited the Panama Canal and arrived at Majuro Atoll in the Marshall Islands on 10 July. For the remainder of World War II, Sebec operated as a crucial part of the Fleet Oiler Service, providing underway replenishment of fuel, provisions, and other supplies to Allied warships throughout the Pacific. Her operational areas included supporting forces in the Mariana Islands, Palau Islands, Leyte Gulf, Luzon, and Okinawa campaigns. Her consistent service enabled sustained naval operations over vast distances, playing a vital role in the logistical support of the fleet.
Post-War and Korean War Service: Following the cessation of hostilities in August 1945, Sebec continued her support duties during the occupation of Japan and the demobilization efforts. She made several voyages between the Far East and the west coast of the United States.
When the Korean War broke out in June 1950, Sebec was once again called into active combat support. From 1950 to 1953, she completed multiple tours in Korean waters, providing essential logistical support to the United Nations naval forces operating off the Korean Peninsula. Her efforts were critical in maintaining the operational readiness of the fleet engaged in combat, including carriers, battleships, and destroyers. She frequently operated under challenging conditions, often close to the combat zone.
Cold War Service and Decommissioning: After the Korean Armistice in 1953, Sebec continued her service in the Pacific Fleet, primarily operating out of San Pedro, California, and conducting regular deployments to the Western Pacific (WestPac). Her duties included supporting exercises, routine deployments, and maintaining the readiness of the fleet during the Cold War era.
Sebec was eventually decommissioned on 26 March 1969, at San Pedro, California. She was subsequently struck from the Naval Vessel Register on 1 June 1973. Her ultimate fate was to be sold for scrapping on 1 December 1973 to the Nicolai Joffe Corporation.
Awards: USS Sebec earned a number of battle stars for her service during World War II and the Korean War, reflecting her significant contributions to naval operations in both conflicts.