USNS Paul Buck (T-AOT-1122)

USNS Paul Buck (T-AOT-1122) was originally constructed in 1985 by American Ship building Company, Tampa, Florida for Ocean Product Tankers of Houston for a long term charter to the United States Navy and operated by Military Sealift Command. The ship was delivered on 7 July 1985. It is a T-5 Tanker. The ship was named after Merchant Marine Paul Buck, who was awarded the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal.

Antarctic missions


Paul Buck made frequent deliveries of fuel to the Antarctic for resupply. This was the most common route that this ship made delivering a variety of fuel types to the base. It was always escorted by an ice breaker.

Paul Buck went out of service in June 2010 and was transferred to the Maritime Commission for disposal. Paul Buck is now awaiting bids to be converted to a Training Ship for SUNY Maritime College. General plans of the converted ship have been submitted to the College for review.

Conversion to T/S Empire State VII
In September 2012, general plans were submitted to SUNY Maritime College for the creation of the Empire State VII. Although submitted for consideration and bidding, it was soon determined that the conversion would not be cost-efficient. The Empire State VI is expected to remain the Maritime College's training ship until at least 2016, when applications for exemption under new SECA (Sulfur Emission Control Areas) Laws will be required to keep her running.