USS West Point Troop Transport

Build at a 1:1400 scale just like my previous variation of the S.S. America Ocean Liner, the USS West Point Troop Transport is just one part of this ships long an unusual service over the decades of the the 20th century.

While the SS America was an Ocean Liner when it was first launched and commissioned, it was quickly transferred to the United States Navy and used as a Troop Transport between 1941 and 1946. My version of this ship is based on it's first camouflage which was a dark gray coat of paint over the entirety of the hull. It was later coloured with wavy patterns of lighter tones of gray to simulate the ocean waves and deter detection.

This MOC is based on my LEGO SS America Ocean Liner MOC.



The USS West Point, originally the SS America, underwent a significant transformation at Norfolk Ship Yards in 1941, converting from a luxury liner to a troop transport vessel. Renamed USS West Point (AP-23), it played a crucial role during World War II, enhancing its troop-carrying capacity to 7,678. Notably, it participated in Convoy WS-12X, a critical mission following the Atlantic Conference between Churchill and Roosevelt. The convoy, departing from Virginia, reached Halifax and, after loading troops and supplies, sailed to Cape Town, Trinidad, and Cape Town again. The USS West Point faced challenges, including a Japanese attack radioed during the convoy and, later, air raids near Singapore. Despite adversities, it successfully evacuated personnel and continued its service, transporting troops to Australia and New Zealand, contributing significantly to the Allied efforts in the Pacific.

In 1945, the USS West Point engaged in post-war operations, conducting "Magic Carpet" voyages from European battlefronts, bringing home American troops. It played a vital role in troop transport, amassing an impressive record by carrying over 350,000 troops during World War II, with one voyage in 1944 accommodating a remarkable 9,305 individuals. The ship's service concluded in 1946 after a final journey from Portsmouth to Newport News, marking the transition from a troop carrier to a passenger liner and ultimately decommissioning. The USS West Point's historical significance lies in its pivotal role as a versatile and high-capacity troop transport vessel during the global conflict.

Source: Wikipedia Article



This LEGO® MOC was designed, created and rendered by The Bobby Brix Channel in 2023.
This product may not be distributed publicly or commercially by a third-party without written permission from The Bobby Brix Channel. This product may be reused, re-adapted or remixed by the user under the condition of proper attribution of the creator and/or original design. This product is for individual and non-commercial use only unless stated otherwise. Do not distribute.