The USS Missoula (APA-211) was a Haskell-class attack transport built on a Victory ship design, specifically the VC2-S-AP5 model. Laid down on June 20, 1944, by Permanente Metals Corporation in Richmond, California, she was launched on September 6, 1944, and commissioned on October 27, 1944. She measured approximately 426 feet in length and was equipped to carry troops, cargo, and landing craft for amphibious operations. During her service in World War II, USS Missoula played a significant role in the Pacific theater. She participated in the invasion of Iwo Jima in February 1945, where she transported and debarked troops onto the beaches and provided medical facilities for the wounded. Notably, her crew was involved in the historic raising of the American flag atop Mount Suribachi; the small flag carried ashore by her personnel was the first of the two flags raised during the battle. The ship's logistical support extended to carrying casualties and providing medical care, treating over 150 wounded Marines during the invasion. Following Iwo Jima, Missoula continued operations in the Pacific, including transporting troops to Okinawa in April 1945, where she discharged men and supplies and evacuated casualties. She also participated in the occupation of Japan, arriving in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945, the day Japan formally surrendered, and debarked troops of the 1st Cavalry Division. Subsequently, she supported the occupation efforts in Hiroshima and other locations, and participated in the massive troop repatriation efforts known as the "Magic Carpet" runs, bringing U.S. servicemen home from the Pacific until early 1946. Decommissioned on September 13, 1946, USS Missoula was placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet. She was struck from the Navy list in 1958, transferred to the Maritime Administration, and berthed in Suisun Bay. The vessel was ultimately sold for scrapping in 1977 and dismantled in 1975. Throughout her active service, she earned two battle stars for her contributions during World War II, marking her as a notable vessel in the amphibious operations of the Pacific War.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.