USS Allagash (AO-97)

USS Allagash (AO-97) was a Cimarron-class oiler constructed for the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving in the dangerous role of supplying fuel and ammunition in combat zones. Laid down in October 1944, launched in April 1945, and commissioned in August 1945, The USS Allagash (AO-97) operated between the Gulf Coast and the West Indies before beginning regular voyages carrying oil along the east coast and to the Persian Gulf.

Participating in NATO exercises, USS Allagash (AO-97) deployed six times to the Mediterranean with the 6th Fleet between 1956 and 1966 and conducted regular training exercises in the West Indies. She provided logistics support during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 and visited new areas like South Africa and Brazil in 1966.

After a career marked by varied operations including Mediterranean deployments, Atlantic missions, and supporting the Cuban crisis, USS Allagash (AO-97) was placed in reserve in 1970 and decommissioned in December of the same year. Turned over to the Maritime Administration in 1971, The USS Allagash (AO-97) was eventually sold for scrapping in 1976. USS Allagash (AO-97) ship's bell now resides in St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church in Wilmington, Delaware.