In fact, the 455-foot cargo ship served in three: World War II and the Korean and Vietnam wars.
Built in 1945, it ferried supplies, troops and equipment during each conflict.
Even in peacetime, the American Victory remained a workhorse. As a goodwill ambassador for the United States, the American Victory hauled food, vehicles and machinery to troops in Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
In 1998, the ship was converted into a memorial and museum to honor those who served in the U.S. Navy Armed Guard and Merchant Marine and fought for their country.
Much of the ship's original equipment and many artifacts are still onboard. Visitors on the self-guided tour experience a slice of the past as they tour the engine room, cargo holds, wheelhouse, radio room, flying bridge, captain's office and stateroom, mess rooms, crew quarters and more.
Restoration work on the vessel is ongoing.
Volunteers plan to create a museum describing life aboard the American Victory and other merchant ships during wartime. The museum will feature artifacts and many hands-on exhibits illustrating life at sea.
A tour tip: Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes as the stairs are extremely steep and thin.
