USS Centaurus (AKA-17)

The USS Centaurus (AKA-17) was an Andromeda-class attack cargo ship of the United States Navy that saw service in World War II. She was named for Centaurus, a constellation in the southern sky representing a centaur.

Launched in 1943, the Centaurus participated in numerous amphibious landings in the Pacific Theater, transporting troops and cargo to assault beaches. These campaigns included operations in the Marshall Islands, the Marianas Islands (Saipan, Tinian), and the Philippines (Leyte, Lingayen Gulf).

Following the end of World War II, the USS Centaurus served in the occupation of Japan, supporting the movement of personnel and supplies. She was decommissioned in 1946 and eventually scrapped. Her service earned her several battle stars for her participation in major Pacific campaigns. The ship played a crucial role in supporting Allied forces during the war, facilitating the logistical needs of amphibious operations.