USS Vega from Pearl Harbor

The USS Vega was built to serve as a cargo ship for the United States Navy. Laid down in 1919 at the Skinner and Eddy Corporation shipyard in Seattle, Washington, she was initially designed to meet the logistical needs of a rapidly expanding naval force. Vega was commissioned on December 21, 1921, and she quickly became an essential part of the Navy’s fleet operations, carrying supplies to various naval stations and supporting fleet exercises.

The design of the USS Vega was typical of cargo ships of her era but with specific enhancements to meet naval standards. She was 401 feet long with a beam of 54 feet, and her full load displacement was approximately 14,250 tons. Vega’s propulsion system included a single steam turbine, driving a single screw, which allowed her to reach speeds of up to 11 knots. Her cargo holds could carry a vast array of supplies, from ammunition to food and other essentials.

On December 6, 1941, the USS Vega arrived at Pearl Harbor, conveying weapons for the Maritime Ammo Station there. It was moored at Pier 31 when civilian dock workers were in the middle of unloading the ammunition stores, and Japanese aircraft launched their attack on the naval base. Though a large amount of ammunition was still on board, Vega’s crew went to in position and opened fire on the attackers with the ship’s anti-aircraft guns. The crew’s quick response helped defend the harbor during the initial moments of the surprise assault.

Before Pearl Harbor, the USS Vega had already seen a significant amount of service. She was involved in various missions, including transporting supplies to American outposts in the Pacific and supporting fleet maneuvers. After the attack, Vega continued her crucial support role, participating in supply runs across the Pacific Theater. Her contributions were vital to the success of numerous operations, including the campaigns in the Solomon Islands and the eventual push towards Japan.

The crew of the USS Vega was a dedicated group of sailors who embodied the spirit of perseverance. Key personnel included her commanding officers, who led the ship through the tumultuous times of the early 1940s. Life on board during the war was challenging, with the constant threat of enemy action and the rigors of long supply missions. Despite these hardships, the crew maintained their resolve, ensuring that Vega fulfilled her mission.

After the war, the USS Vega continued to serve, albeit in a diminished capacity. She was involved in post-war supply missions and contributed to the rebuilding efforts in the Pacific. In 1946, the USS Vega was decommissioned and it was placed in reserve. Eventually, the ship was struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1947 and sold for scrap. Her legacy, however, lives on through the memories of those who served on her and the critical role she played during a pivotal moment in history.

Efforts to preserve the history of ships like the USS Vega are crucial for future generations. While the ship herself was scrapped, various museums and historical exhibits feature models, artifacts, and displays dedicated to her memory. These efforts ensure that the legacy of the USS Vega and her crew continues to be remembered and honored.

The USS Vega’s story is a testament to the unsung heroes of World War II. While not as famous as the battleships, her role was no less critical. The bravery and dedication of her crew during the attack on Pearl Harbor and throughout the war highlight the essential support that logistics ships provide. Remembering the USS Vega helps us appreciate the full scope of naval operations and the many facets of wartime service.