USS Triumph (AM-323)
The USS Triumph (AM-323) was an Auk-class minesweeper acquired by the U.S. Navy for the dangerous task of removing mines from minefields laid in the water to prevent ships from passing. Triumph was named after the word "Triumph," meaning a victory or success.
Triumph was laid down on 26 July 1943 by the American Ship Building Company in Lorain, Ohio; launched on 29 April 1944; sponsored by Mrs. F. R. Van Valkenburgh; and commissioned on 22 December 1944, Lt. Comdr. Joseph E. Duncan, USNR, in command.
Following shakedown off Florida, Triumph transited the Panama Canal and arrived at San Diego, California, on 22 February 1945. After further training, she sailed for the western Pacific Ocean, arriving at Pearl Harbor on 14 March. On 29 March, she got underway for Okinawa, via Eniwetok, and arrived off that island on 26 April.
During the Battle of Okinawa, Triumph performed minesweeping duties to clear harbors and anchorages, often under enemy fire. She also provided anti-submarine patrols and defended against air attacks. She remained in the Okinawa area until July 1945.
After Okinawa, Triumph participated in minesweeping operations in the East China Sea. Following the end of World War II, she assisted in clearing mines from Japanese waters.
In the years following the war, Triumph served with Mine Division 123, operating primarily in Japanese and Korean waters. She participated in various training exercises and goodwill missions.
During the Korean War, Triumph once again performed minesweeping operations, clearing harbors and channels for Allied forces. She also provided patrol and escort duties.
Following the Korean War, Triumph continued to serve with the U.S. Navy, participating in fleet exercises and training operations.
Triumph was decommissioned on 16 November 1956 and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on 1 May 1966 and sold for scrap on 25 June 1967.
USS Triumph earned two battle stars for World War II service and five battle stars for Korean War service.