Mobile (LKA 115) - Naval Cruise Book

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PROMOTION CONGRATULATIONS

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MARINES MSSG-3i As the crew and officers of thie USS MOBILE traveled through the waters of the Pacific and Indian Ocean they were not alone. They were accompanied by W ar ne, MSSG-31 (lyiAU Ser- vice Support Group) which provided supply support for 31st IVIAU. They were composed of Communications Division, Head- quarters, Motor Transport, Engineer Support, Landing Support, Maintenance, Supply and TOW Section. As the troops and crew traveled through the Western Pacific waters, there were many exercises to be done. LANDEX 1-80 Zambales, Philippines. One that toon concentration, aching muscles, and long hours for all in- volved. MSSG-31 also maintained 31stMAU at 1 % or less combat readiness rate throughout deployment. Also MSSG-31 provided data processing support throughout deployment for mechanical maintenance, supply and distribution. They continued training for embarked Marines with a high level of academic, military and technical education was also maintained over the 5 ' 2 month period they were on board.

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MOBILE: ITS EVER CHANGING HISTORY The USS MOBILE (LKA 115) became an integral part of a balanced, mobile and modern 20 knot amphibious force of the United States Navy on 20 September 1969 when she was commissioned and became a unit of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The Honorable Lambert C. Mims, Mayor of the City of Mobile, was the guest speaker. The keel for the USS MOBILE was laid in January 1968 and the ship was launched on 19 October 1968. Mrs. John J. Sparkman, wife of the Alabama Senator and sponsor of the ship, christened the MOBILE at 10:30 A.M. Senator Sparkman, senior senator from the State of Alabama, delivered the principal address. An LKA. amphibious cargo ship, is designed to transport and land combat equipment and material, with attendant personnel, in amphibious assaults. Navy cargo ships such as MOBILE have a most impressive record of achievement in providing support to our forces ashore and afloat. MO- BILE perpetuates such a proud heritage. Armed with 13 assault boats and improved cargo handling systems, the 575 foot, 20 knot MOBILE possesses a pow- erful capability for supporting amphibious assaults that is beyond the reach of older LKA type ships. Her four Mike 8 boats, capable of landing 60 ton tanks, are the largest landing craft now hoisted aboard a Navy ship. Her im- proved cargo handling systems include 12 booms, of which two have a 70 ton lifting capacity; special elevators; and an enlarged helicopter platform. The engineroom can now be handled by five or six men instead of 14 because of the automated system.