USS Chukawan (AO-100)

The USS Chukawan (AO-100) had a distinguished service life, primarily operating as a replenishment oiler in support of various U.S. Navy fleets. Her capability to refuel ships at sea enabled extended naval operations and added to the U.S. Navy's ability to project power across great distances.

Some of the key aspects of Chukawan's career included regular deployments to the Mediterranean, supporting the U.S. 6th Fleet. Her actions during the Suez Crisis and the 1958 Lebanon crisis illustrate her flexibility and readiness to respond to international incidents.

Chukawan was decommissioned on 13 June 1972, and struck from the Naval Register on 1 July 1972. The specific date of her sale for scrapping appears to have been cut off in your information, but it's clear that she was eventually disposed of.

An interesting tidbit in Chukawan's history is that rockabilly musician Gene Vincent served on the ship before his music career. Vincent, known for hits like "Be-Bop-a-Lula," is an example of the diverse backgrounds and talents found among those who have served in the U.S. Navy.

Overall, Chukawan's service provides a glimpse into the critical support roles that oilers play in modern naval warfare, contributing not only to the logistics and sustainability of naval forces but also to their ability to respond rapidly to emerging crises around the globe.