General Robert L Howze
The General Robert L Howze was one of thirty C4-S-A1 class troop transport vessels built during World War II, collectively known as the "Generals" class. Each ship in this class was named after an American General from World War I, designed to transport large numbers of troops throughout the Pacific theater.
Construction and Design
Built by Kaiser Co. in Richmond, California, the General Robert L Howze was launched in 1944/45. She was designed specifically for wartime troop transport, with the capability to carry up to 3,000 troops at a time.
Wartime and Occupation Service
During World War II, the vessel primarily operated in the Pacific theater. Following the war, she participated in transporting occupation forces to Japan and other former theaters of war.
Post-war Refugee Transport
After World War II, the General Robert L Howze was chartered by the International Refugee Organization (IRO) to transport displaced persons to various countries. She made two documented voyages to Australia with Italian migrants:
- First voyage: Departed Naples on 21 November 1949, arrived Melbourne on 18 December 1949
- Second voyage: Departed Naples on 28 February 1950, arrived Melbourne on 28 March 1950
Later Years
Like many of her sister ships, the General Robert L Howze may have seen service during the Korean War. The class was progressively laid up through the 1950s but maintained in mothballs as a strategic reserve. Between 1967 and 1970, these vessels were sold off for conversion to cargo ships or container carriers.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Built by | Kaiser Co, Richmond, California |
| Launched | 1944/45 |
| Gross Tonnage | 10,645 |
| Length | 523 ft (159.3 m) |
| Beam | 71 ft (21.7 m) |
| Propulsion | Geared turbines, single screw |
| Service Speed | 17 knots |
| Capacity | Up to 3,000 troops or 1,300 passengers |