Ships of Pearl Harbor: USS Antares

The USS Antares (AKS-3) was originally built as the SS Santa Lucia in 1919 by William Cramp & Sons Shipbuilding Company in Philadelphia. Acquired by the Navy in 1921, she was converted into a cargo ship and commissioned as USS Antares (AG-10). Her primary function was to transport supplies, which she did with reliability and efficiency.

During the interwar period, USS Antares served in various logistical roles, supporting naval operations across the Pacific and Atlantic. Her ability to deliver essential supplies made her a vital asset to the fleet. The ship underwent several modifications over the years, adapting to the evolving needs of the Navy.

USS Antares was a cargo ship with a length of 422 feet, a beam of 54 feet, and a draft of 24 feet. She had a displacement of approximately 14,250 tons and could reach speeds of up to 11 knots. Her spacious cargo holds allowed for the transport of large quantities of supplies, making her a critical logistical vessel. Though primarily a cargo ship, the USS Antares was equipped with defensive armament to protect herself from enemy threats. This included several anti-aircraft guns and machine guns. The ship’s equipment was designed to facilitate efficient loading and unloading of cargo, ensuring rapid resupply of naval forces.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, USS Antares was positioned outside Pearl Harbor, preparing to enter the harbor with a target raft in tow. Her presence, although not within the main target zone of the attack, became critical in the early moments of the Japanese assault. One of USS Antares’ most notable contributions was her role in detecting a Japanese midget submarine attempting to infiltrate the harbor. The ship’s crew spotted the periscope of the submarine trailing behind the target raft. This detection led to the USS Ward engaging and sinking the submarine, marking the first shots fired by the United States in World War II. The day began like any other for the crew of USS Antares. However, the routine quickly shifted to high alert when the Japanese planes began their assault on Pearl Harbor. Despite being outside the immediate attack zone, the crew witnessed the devastation and sprang into action to support the fleet. Throughout the attack, USS Antares maintained communication with other ships and shore installations, providing crucial updates and coordinating responses. The ship’s vigilance in detecting the submarine threat exemplified the importance of readiness and quick thinking in times of crisis.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, USS Antares continued to serve with distinction throughout World War II. She played a vital role in numerous Pacific campaigns, transporting supplies, equipment, and personnel to support Allied operations. Her reliable service ensured that frontline forces remained well-equipped and capable. USS Antares’ logistical capabilities were instrumental in several key battles, including the Guadalcanal Campaign and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Her ability to deliver supplies under challenging conditions highlighted the importance of support vessels in achieving military success.

Today, the USS Antares is remembered through various memorials and historical accounts. Her contributions to the war effort and the events of Pearl Harbor are commemorated in museums and naval history exhibits, ensuring that her legacy endures.

One of the unique features of USS Antares was her ability to operate independently for extended periods, thanks to her ample storage and efficient design. This autonomy allowed her to support remote operations without requiring constant resupply.

USS Antares may not be as famous as some of the other ships at Pearl Harbor, but her contributions were invaluable. From detecting a Japanese submarine to providing crucial logistical support during World War II, she played a vital role in the Navy’s efforts. The legacy of USS Antares lives on through the stories of her crew, the lessons learned from her service, and the memorials that honor her place in history.