USS Algol (AKA-54)

USS Algol (AKA-54) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship of the United States Navy. She was named after Algol, a binary star in the constellation Perseus. Algol served during World War II, participating in several major operations in the Pacific Theater.

Algol was laid down on 22 November 1943 at the Walsh-Kaiser Company, Inc., in Providence, Rhode Island. She was launched on 24 January 1944, sponsored by Mrs. William H. Taylor, and commissioned on 22 August 1944, with Commander John W. Bishop in command.

Following shakedown and training, Algol joined the Pacific Fleet. She participated in the landings at Leyte in October 1944, earning a battle star for her service. Subsequently, she took part in the Lingayen Gulf operation in January 1945, another major engagement where she provided vital support for the invading forces, adding a second battle star to her record.

After the war, Algol participated in Operation Magic Carpet, the massive effort to repatriate American servicemen from overseas. She continued to serve in various capacities after this initial postwar duty.

Algol was decommissioned on 25 January 1947 and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on 1 October 1960. On 12 June 1961, she was sold to the Union Minerals and Alloys Corporation for scrapping.

USS Algol (AKA-54) earned two battle stars for her World War II service, reflecting her contribution to the war effort in the Pacific.