USS Boston (CAG 1)

- formerly CA 69, later CA 69 -
- decommissioned -

Initially commissioned as a BALTIMORE - class heavy gun cruiser, the USS BOSTON was the sixth ship in the Navy to bear the name. During World War II, the ship operated in the Pacific. Following the Japanese surrender, the BOSTON remained in the Far East on occupation duty until February 28, 1946. She then returned to the United States and was placed out of commission in reserve at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard October 29, 1946.
BOSTON was reclassified CAG 1, January 4, 1952. In February 1952 she was towed from Bremerton, Wash., to Philadelphia for conversion to a guided missile heavy cruiser by New York Shipbuilding Corp., Camden, N.J. During conversion her after-8" turret was replaced with anti-aircraft missile launchers and she was otherwise modernized. BOSTON was recommissioned on November 1, 1955. For the next 15 years, the BOSTON operated from the US east coast, conducting several Mediterranean deployments. This schedule was only interrupted by three tours of duty off Vietnam between 1964 and 1970. On May 1, 1968, the BOSTON was again reclassified CA 69 and her Mk-10 Terrier missile system was retired. Finally decommissioned on May 5, 1970, the BOSTON was sold for scrapping on March 1, 1975.

General Characteristics:	Awarded: 1940
	Keel laid: June 30, 1941
	Launched: August 26, 1942
	Commissioned: June 30, 1943
	Decommissioned: May 5, 1970
	Builder: Bethlehem Steel, Quincy, Mass.
	Propulsion system: geared turbines; 120,000 shaft horsepower
	Length: 673.5 feet (205.3 meters)
	Beam: 69.9 feet (21.3 meters)
	Draft: 24.94 feet (7.6 meters)
	Displacement: approx. 17,500 tons full load
	Speed: 33 knots
	Aircraft: none
	Armament: six 8-inch/55 caliber guns in two triple mounts, ten 5-inch/38 caliber guns in five twin mounts, eight 3-inch/50 caliber guns, two Mk-10 Terrier missile launchers
	Crew: 80 officers and 1650

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS BOSTON. It is no official listing but contains the names of sailors who submitted their information.

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Click here to see which USS BOSTON memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

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USS BOSTON Cruise Books:

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Accidents aboard USS BOSTON:

Date	Where	Events
June 17, 1968	off Vietnam	US Air Force F-4 jets sink a US patrol boat and attack the USS BOSTON and the Australian destroyer HOBART near the demilitarized zone off Vietnam after mistaking the ships for low-flying enemy helicopters.

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History of USS BOSTON:

USS BOSTON (CA 69) was laid down on June 30, 1941, by the Bethlehem Steel Company's Fore River Shipyard at Quincy, Massachusetts, as a BALTIMORE-class heavy cruiser. She was launched on August 26, 1942, sponsored by Mrs. Maurice J. Tobin, wife of the Mayor of Boston, and commissioned at Boston on June 30, 1943, with Captain John H. Carson in command. BOSTON was the sixth ship of the United States Navy to bear the name of the Massachusetts city. Following fitting-out, sea trials, and shakedown training in the Atlantic, the cruiser prepared for service with the Pacific Fleet.

BOSTON departed the East Coast during the autumn of 1943 and proceeded through the Panama Canal to the Pacific. She arrived at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 6, 1943, where she joined the forces assembling for the next phase of the American offensive against Japanese-held islands in the central Pacific. During December and early January 1944, she conducted additional training and preparations for combat operations. As a heavy cruiser equipped with nine 8-inch guns, twelve 5-inch guns, and numerous lighter antiaircraft weapons, BOSTON was assigned to provide protection for the aircraft carriers and support amphibious operations when required.

In January 1944, BOSTON joined Task Force 58, the Fast Carrier Task Force of the U.S. Fifth Fleet. Between January 31 and February 28, she participated in carrier operations against Japanese positions in the Marshall Islands, supporting the American invasions of Kwajalein, Majuro, and Eniwetok. Her duties included screening the aircraft carriers against enemy aircraft and surface forces, maintaining antiaircraft readiness, and accompanying the carrier groups as their aircraft attacked Japanese airfields, shipping, and military installations. The operations were part of the American advance through the central Pacific toward the Mariana Islands.

During March and April 1944, BOSTON continued operating with the fast carrier forces during attacks against Japanese positions in the western Caroline Islands. Between March 30 and April 1, the carriers attacked Palau, Yap, and Woleai, targeting Japanese airfields, warships, merchant shipping, and shore installations. BOSTON subsequently supported the Allied landings at Hollandia and Aitape in New Guinea between April 21 and 24. The operation involved coordinated attacks by carrier aircraft and amphibious forces to isolate Japanese positions and establish new Allied bases along the northern coast of New Guinea.

Following these operations, BOSTON accompanied the carrier task forces during attacks against Truk and nearby Japanese installations between April 29 and May 1, 1944. The operations included the bombardment of Satawan Island, where American naval forces attacked Japanese military facilities. During the following weeks, BOSTON continued screening the carriers and participated in further training and replenishment activities before the next major amphibious operation.

On June 6, 1944, the fast carrier forces departed their forward bases to support the invasion of the Mariana Islands. Beginning on June 11, American carrier aircraft attacked Japanese airfields, coastal defenses, and military installations on Saipan, Tinian, and Guam. BOSTON operated in the carrier screen, providing antiaircraft protection and maintaining readiness to engage enemy surface forces. During June 15 and 16, she also participated in carrier operations against the Bonin Islands, intended to prevent Japanese aircraft from reinforcing the defenses of the Marianas.

On June 19 and 20, 1944, BOSTON participated in the Battle of the Philippine Sea. The engagement developed after the Japanese Combined Fleet attempted to attack the American naval forces supporting the invasion of Saipan. American carrier aircraft and shipboard antiaircraft defenses inflicted heavy losses on Japanese naval aviation, while submarines and carrier aircraft sank several Japanese aircraft carriers. BOSTON remained with the fast carrier formations, contributing to their defensive screen during the battle. After the engagement, the carrier forces resumed attacks against Japanese positions in the Marianas and Bonin Islands.

During late June and July 1944, BOSTON participated in additional raids against Japanese installations in the Bonin Islands and supported the continuing campaign in the Mariana Islands. The operations included carrier strikes against Iwo Jima and Chichi Jima on June 24-26 and July 3-4, as well as the invasion of Guam, which began on July 21. Between July 25 and 27, the carrier forces also attacked Japanese positions at Palau, Yap, and Ulithi. BOSTON continued operating with Task Force 58 throughout these missions, alternating between carrier screening, antiaircraft defense, and other assigned duties.

Following replenishment and maintenance in the central Pacific, BOSTON returned to offensive operations during September 1944. She supported carrier strikes against Japanese positions in the Philippine Islands between September 9 and 24 and participated in operations associated with the American landings on Morotai on September 15. The carrier attacks were intended to weaken Japanese air and naval forces before the planned invasion of Leyte. BOSTON also participated in operations supporting the seizure of the southern Palau Islands, including Peleliu and Angaur, during September and October.

In October 1944, BOSTON continued operating with the fast carrier forces, now designated Task Force 38 under Admiral William F. Halsey's Third Fleet. On October 10, the carriers attacked Japanese airfields and installations on Okinawa. Further strikes followed against northern Luzon and Formosa between October 11 and 14, with additional attacks against Luzon during the following days. Japanese aircraft repeatedly attempted to penetrate the American carrier formations, and BOSTON maintained antiaircraft readiness while the task force operated within range of Japanese land-based aircraft.

Between October 24 and 26, 1944, BOSTON participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which developed as Japanese naval forces attempted to attack the Allied invasion fleet off Leyte. The engagement involved several separate actions in the Philippine archipelago, including battles in the Sibuyan Sea, Surigao Strait, and off Samar, as well as the American carrier attack against Japanese forces off Cape Engano. BOSTON operated with Task Force 38 during the battle and subsequently continued supporting the American campaign in the Philippines.

During November and December 1944, BOSTON participated in additional carrier strikes against Japanese airfields, shipping, and other military targets on Luzon. The operations included attacks on November 13-14 and 19-20 and December 14-16. American carrier forces repeatedly returned to the Philippines to disrupt Japanese reinforcements and protect Allied troops advancing ashore. BOSTON continued serving in the carrier screen and participated in fleet replenishments and other supporting operations between strikes.

In January 1945, BOSTON accompanied Task Force 38 during a series of operations against Japanese positions in Formosa, Luzon, and along the coast of China. These included strikes against Luzon on January 6 and 7; Formosa on January 3-4, 9, 15, and 21; targets along the China coast on January 12 and 16; and the Nansei Shoto on January 22. The attacks targeted airfields, shipping, and other military facilities as American forces continued their advance through the Philippines. BOSTON remained assigned to the carrier forces and participated in the associated screening and defensive operations.

During February and early March 1945, BOSTON participated in the first major American carrier attacks against the Japanese home islands since the Doolittle Raid of April 1942. Carrier aircraft struck targets on Honshu on February 15 and 16, followed by additional operations against the Nansei Shoto and the Japanese home islands in early March. BOSTON also participated in naval bombardment operations during this period. Following the completion of the operations, she was ordered back to the United States for overhaul and arrived at Long Beach, California, on March 25, 1945.

During the subsequent overhaul, BOSTON underwent repairs and maintenance to her machinery, weapons, and other equipment after more than a year of intensive combat operations. Following completion of the work, she returned to the Pacific by way of Pearl Harbor and Eniwetok. In July 1945, she rejoined Task Force 38 for the final series of carrier strikes against the Japanese home islands. The attacks, which continued from July 20 until the cessation of hostilities on August 15, targeted Japanese airfields, industrial facilities, naval bases, and surviving warships.

On August 9, 1945, BOSTON participated in the bombardment of Kamaishi, a major industrial center on the northeastern coast of Honshu. The American bombardment force, commanded by Rear Admiral John F. Shafroth Jr., included the battleships USS SOUTH DAKOTA (BB 57), USS INDIANA (BB 58), and USS MASSACHUSETTS (BB 59), together with the heavy cruisers USS QUINCY (CA 71), USS CHICAGO (CA 136), BOSTON, and USS SAINT PAUL (CA 73). The British light cruiser HMS NEWFOUNDLAND and the New Zealand light cruiser HMNZS GAMBIA also participated, accompanied by American and British destroyers. The ships bombarded industrial facilities in the Kamaishi area, including the iron and steel works that had previously been attacked on July 14. The bombardment was among the final naval surface attacks against Japan during World War II.

Following Japan's announcement of its acceptance of Allied surrender terms on August 15, 1945, BOSTON remained with the Third Fleet in Japanese waters. On September 3, she entered Tokyo Bay and anchored with other American warships. During the following weeks, BOSTON participated in occupation operations and supported the Allied effort to disarm and demilitarize Japan. Her duties included operations with Task Force 35 and subsequently Task Force 53, the Eastern Japan Force. The cruiser assisted in the inspection of former Japanese naval installations and supported the activities of the American occupation forces.

During September and October 1945, BOSTON operated in Japanese waters in company with other American cruisers and supporting vessels. Her immediate command organization included Cruiser Division Ten, whose flagship was initially USS QUINCY and subsequently USS SAINT PAUL. The ship continued routine occupation duties, personnel transfers, inspections, and training while supporting the establishment of Allied control over Japanese military facilities.

BOSTON remained in the Far East until February 28, 1946, when her occupation assignment ended. She subsequently returned to the United States and entered the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Washington, for inactivation. Following preparations for transfer to the reserve fleet, BOSTON was decommissioned on October 29, 1946, and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet. During World War II, she had participated in major operations throughout the central and western Pacific and earned ten battle stars.

With the development of shipboard guided-missile weapons during the early Cold War, the Navy selected BOSTON and her sister ship USS CANBERRA (CA 70) for conversion into guided-missile heavy cruisers. On January 4, 1952, BOSTON was reclassified CAG 1. In February, she was taken under tow from Bremerton for transfer to the East Coast, where the New York Shipbuilding Corporation at Camden, New Jersey, undertook the extensive conversion program.

The conversion substantially changed BOSTON's original BALTIMORE-class configuration. Her after triple 8-inch gun turret was removed to accommodate two twin-arm Terrier surface-to-air missile launchers, associated magazines, missile-handling facilities, and new radar and fire-control equipment. The two forward triple 8-inch turrets and most of the original 5-inch battery were retained. Additional modifications were made to the superstructure, communications facilities, and electrical systems. The Terrier installation provided a new capability to engage hostile aircraft at ranges beyond those of conventional naval antiaircraft guns.

On November 1, 1955, BOSTON was recommissioned at Philadelphia, becoming the first guided-missile cruiser to enter active service with the United States Navy. Following fitting-out and initial trials, she began a period of shakedown training and weapons evaluations off the East Coast and in the Caribbean. The testing program included exercises designed to evaluate the Terrier missile system, radar tracking equipment, fire-control procedures, and the ship's ability to operate with other units of the Atlantic Fleet. Further trials and modifications continued throughout 1956.

During the first half of 1956, BOSTON conducted exercises along the Atlantic coast and in Caribbean waters. Her activities included missile evaluations, tactical training, engineering drills, and operational readiness exercises. The introduction of the Terrier system required extensive training for the ship's officers and crew, particularly in radar tracking, missile handling, and coordination with aircraft operating in the vicinity of fleet formations. Between periods at sea, BOSTON returned to East Coast naval facilities for maintenance and modifications.

On November 23, 1956, BOSTON departed for her first Mediterranean deployment as a guided-missile cruiser. She joined the U.S. Sixth Fleet and participated in exercises and operations with American and allied naval forces. The deployment took place during a period of heightened international tension following the Suez Crisis of October and November 1956. While operating in the Mediterranean, BOSTON conducted air-defense exercises, tactical maneuvers, and port visits, introducing the Terrier missile system to routine fleet operations in European waters. She returned to the United States in May 1957.

In June 1957, BOSTON participated in the International Naval Review in Hampton Roads, Virginia, held in connection with the Jamestown anniversary celebrations. The review brought together American and foreign warships for ceremonies and demonstrations. During July, the cruiser undertook a midshipmen training cruise that included visits to Cuba and Chile. The voyage provided practical training in navigation, seamanship, engineering, and weapons operations for the embarked midshipmen.

On September 3, 1957, BOSTON departed for another period of operations in northern European waters. Between September 3 and October 22, she participated in NATO exercises in the North Atlantic, including Exercise Strikeback, a major allied naval operation intended to test the ability of NATO maritime forces to defend Atlantic sea routes and conduct coordinated operations against a simulated opponent. Following completion of the exercise and her return to the United States, BOSTON entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard on November 25 for an overhaul that continued into 1958.

After completion of the overhaul and subsequent training, BOSTON prepared for another Mediterranean deployment. On May 23, 1958, she received an unusual ceremonial assignment when the remains of the Unknown Servicemen representing the Pacific Theater of World War II and the Korean War were embarked aboard the cruiser. The remains had been selected in Hawaii and transported to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, before their transfer to BOSTON.

On May 26, 1958, BOSTON rendezvoused off the Virginia Capes with USS BLANDY (DD 943), which carried the Unknown Serviceman representing the European Theater of World War II. The European Unknown was transferred to BOSTON by highline, and the cruiser then proceeded to rendezvous with USS CANBERRA (CAG 2). All three caskets were subsequently transferred aboard USS CANBERRA, where Hospital Corpsman First Class William R. Charette, a Medal of Honor recipient, selected the Unknown Serviceman of World War II for burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Following the ceremony, the selected World War II Unknown and the Korean War Unknown were transferred to USS BLANDY for transportation to Washington, D.C. The unselected World War II Unknown was committed to the sea with full military honors.

In June 1958, BOSTON departed for another deployment to the Mediterranean. During the following months, she operated with the Sixth Fleet and participated in routine fleet exercises, air-defense training, and port visits in southern Europe. Her assignment was interrupted by a major political crisis in Lebanon, where growing internal unrest and regional tensions prompted the Lebanese government to request American assistance.

On July 15, 1958, the United States began Operation Blue Bat, landing Marines and other military forces in Lebanon to support the Lebanese government. American naval forces assembled off the Lebanese coast to provide protection, logistical support, and contingency capabilities for the operation. BOSTON was among the Sixth Fleet warships operating in the area. On July 18, she was photographed steaming off Beirut while supporting the American naval presence during the crisis.

BOSTON continued operating in connection with the Lebanon intervention during several periods in July, August, and early September 1958. Her participation included qualifying service from July 15 to August 1, August 9 to 21, and September 2 to 5. The cruiser maintained readiness for fleet operations while American forces remained ashore in Lebanon. Following the conclusion of her deployment, BOSTON returned to the United States in September and resumed operations with the Atlantic Fleet.

During the remainder of 1958 and the first half of 1959, BOSTON conducted training exercises along the American East Coast and in the Caribbean. The activities included missile-system evaluations, gunnery training, tactical exercises, and periods of maintenance. In August 1959, she departed for another extended deployment with the Sixth Fleet. During the following seven months, BOSTON participated in Mediterranean exercises and visited ports in southern Europe and the surrounding region.

After completing the deployment, BOSTON returned to the East Coast and entered Charleston Naval Shipyard on February 27, 1960. The overhaul continued for approximately five months and included work on machinery, weapons, electronic equipment, and other shipboard systems. Following completion of the work, the cruiser conducted sea trials and resumed operations with the Atlantic Fleet. During the summer and autumn, she participated in exercises off the East Coast and in the North Atlantic.

In the autumn of 1960, BOSTON returned to the Mediterranean for another deployment with the Sixth Fleet. She participated in exercises with American and allied naval forces and conducted port visits before beginning her return to the United States. On December 21, 1960, she arrived at Boston, Massachusetts. During the following months, the cruiser continued operating from the East Coast, taking part in fleet training and missile exercises.

During April 1961, BOSTON was assigned duties connected with American naval operations in the Caribbean during the crisis surrounding the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba. The unsuccessful invasion, carried out by Cuban exile forces between April 17 and 19, led to heightened American military readiness in the region. BOSTON's qualifying service in connection with the operation extended from April 19 to 29, for which she received the Navy Expeditionary Medal. Following the crisis, she returned to regular training and fleet operations.

In September 1961, BOSTON entered Charleston Naval Shipyard for maintenance and repairs in preparation for another Mediterranean deployment. She departed for the Sixth Fleet on December 11, 1961, and conducted exercises and port visits in the Mediterranean during the following months. After completing the assignment, BOSTON returned to the United States on March 5, 1962.

Following another period of training and upkeep along the Atlantic coast, BOSTON departed for the Mediterranean on August 3, 1962. During this deployment, she served for approximately six weeks as flagship of the Commander, Sixth Fleet, carrying the commander and his staff and providing the communications and command facilities required to coordinate American naval operations in the region. The assignment included fleet exercises, tactical operations, and port visits in the Mediterranean.

After completing the deployment, BOSTON returned to Boston on February 16, 1963. She subsequently entered Boston Naval Shipyard for a four-month overhaul. The work included improvements to electronic equipment and the installation of an SPS-30 height-finding radar. Additional maintenance and modernization work was carried out on the cruiser's machinery, weapons, and communications systems. Following completion of the overhaul, BOSTON returned to operational service in July 1963 and resumed exercises with the Atlantic Fleet.

During 1964, BOSTON continued the regular cycle of Mediterranean deployments and Atlantic Fleet operations. The ship participated in Sixth Fleet exercises and conducted visits to European ports, including Barcelona, Spain, from October 17 to 21 and Nice, France, during November. Her duties included air-defense training, tactical maneuvers, replenishment exercises, and operations with American carrier task groups. The cruiser also hosted visiting military officers and civilian representatives during several port calls.

During 1965, BOSTON again operated with the Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean. During this deployment, she relieved USS ALBANY (CG 10) as flagship of a fast carrier strike group at Augusta Bay, Sicily. The two guided-missile cruisers were photographed alongside each other during the transfer of command duties. BOSTON subsequently continued operations with the carrier group, participating in fleet exercises, communications training, and antiaircraft defense activities. Her Mediterranean assignment extended into the following year.

On January 17, 1966, a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber carrying four thermonuclear weapons collided with a KC-135 tanker aircraft during aerial refueling over southeastern Spain. The collision caused both aircraft to crash, with three of the weapons falling on land near Palomares and a fourth entering the Mediterranean Sea. The United States subsequently organized an extensive search and recovery operation involving Navy surface ships, divers, support vessels, and specialized underwater equipment.

BOSTON was among the naval units supporting the Palomares operation. Her participation in the search and recovery effort extended from January 30 to March 15, 1966. The operation required coordination between American naval forces and Spanish authorities as the Navy searched for the missing weapon and prepared for its recovery from the seabed. BOSTON subsequently received a Navy Unit Commendation for her participation. The missing weapon was eventually recovered from the Mediterranean in April 1966.

After completing her Mediterranean assignment, BOSTON returned to the United States for maintenance, training, and preparations for a new operational role. With the expanding American military commitment in Vietnam, the Navy increasingly employed heavy cruisers to provide long-range artillery support for ground forces. BOSTON's remaining 8-inch guns made her suitable for missions against fortified positions and other targets beyond the capabilities of smaller naval guns.

During the latter part of 1966 and early 1967, BOSTON underwent preparations for deployment to Southeast Asia. The work included inspections, training, and maintenance required for extended operations in the western Pacific. The cruiser departed the American East Coast in the spring of 1967 and proceeded through the Panama Canal toward the Pacific, beginning the first of three combat deployments during the Vietnam War.

By April 20, 1967, BOSTON was operating in waters associated with the Vietnam War. After joining the Seventh Fleet, she began naval gunfire support missions off the coast of South Vietnam and subsequently participated in Operation Sea Dragon, the American naval interdiction campaign directed against North Vietnamese coastal shipping and military installations. The operation sought to disrupt the movement of personnel and supplies by sea while attacking selected targets along the North Vietnamese coast.

During the first weeks of the deployment, BOSTON supported American and South Vietnamese forces ashore with her 8-inch and 5-inch gun batteries. Her fire-support missions required coordination with forward observers, aircraft, and military units operating near the coast. Targets included defensive positions, suspected troop concentrations, fortified installations, and other military objectives identified by observers. The cruiser periodically withdrew from the firing line for ammunition replenishment, maintenance, and logistical support before resuming combat operations.

During May 1967, BOSTON continued alternating between naval gunfire support duties and Operation Sea Dragon assignments. Her activities included operations in the waters near Da Nang and along the coast of North Vietnam. The cruiser also conducted replenishments at sea to maintain the ammunition, fuel, and supplies required for sustained operations.

On June 25, 1967, BOSTON received ammunition and supplies from USS SACRAMENTO (AOE 1) during an underway replenishment in the western Pacific. Contemporary Navy photographs document the evolution and identify BOSTON as a cruiser providing naval gunfire support to American Marines while also attacking North Vietnamese military targets and coastal watercraft. The replenishment was part of the logistical support required to sustain the cruiser's repeated bombardment missions.

Throughout July, August, and September 1967, BOSTON continued combat operations with the Seventh Fleet. During Operation Sea Dragon, American cruisers and destroyers operated along the North Vietnamese coast, attacking waterborne logistics craft, coastal installations, and other assigned military targets. The ships also encountered North Vietnamese shore batteries and were required to maneuver to avoid incoming artillery fire. BOSTON participated in these operations while maintaining her capability to provide fire support for ground forces in South Vietnam.

By late September 1967, BOSTON had completed the combat portion of her first Vietnam deployment. She subsequently began the return voyage to the United States, proceeding across the Pacific and through the Panama Canal. On October 25, 1967, BOSTON returned to her homeport in Massachusetts, where she was welcomed by family members and local officials. The cruiser subsequently began a period of leave, upkeep, and preparations for her next deployment.

During late 1967 and early 1968, BOSTON underwent maintenance and operational training along the East Coast. The work included repairs and preparations associated with the sustained use of her heavy gun batteries during the preceding deployment. With American forces continuing major operations in Vietnam, the Navy retained BOSTON in the rotation of heavy cruisers assigned to provide naval gunfire support.

In the spring of 1968, BOSTON departed for her second Vietnam deployment. By April 29, she had returned to the combat area and resumed naval gunfire support operations with the Seventh Fleet. The deployment coincided with a period of intensified fighting following the Tet Offensive, which had begun in late January and involved widespread attacks by North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces against American and South Vietnamese positions.

During late April and the first half of May 1968, BOSTON provided naval gunfire support in the Dong Ha area of northern South Vietnam. The missions were conducted in support of American ground forces operating near the Demilitarized Zone, where North Vietnamese troops and artillery frequently threatened Allied positions. For her performance during the period from April 30 to May 16, BOSTON received a Navy Unit Commendation.

On May 1, 1968, BOSTON was reclassified from guided-missile heavy cruiser CAG 1 to heavy cruiser CA 69. The redesignation recognized the predominance of her naval gunfire support duties during the Vietnam War. Although the Terrier missile system had ceased to be the ship's principal operational weapon, the missile launchers and associated equipment remained physically installed following the reclassification. BOSTON continued her deployment as an artillery support ship.

During May and June 1968, BOSTON alternated between naval gunfire support assignments along the South Vietnamese coast and Operation Sea Dragon missions north of the Demilitarized Zone. These operations included attacks against coastal logistics traffic and military targets. Ships operating close to the North Vietnamese coast were exposed to fire from shore batteries, while their gun crews relied on aircraft and other observers to identify and correct fire against assigned targets.

During the night of June 15-16, 1968, reports of unidentified aircraft and possible North Vietnamese helicopters created confusion among American naval and air units operating near the Demilitarized Zone. In the same period, the American patrol craft PCF 19 was lost off the Vietnamese coast with the deaths of five members of its crew. The circumstances of the loss were subsequently investigated.

During the early morning hours of June 17, 1968, BOSTON was operating off the North Vietnamese coast in the general vicinity of Tiger Island when an unidentified jet aircraft approached and fired two missiles toward the cruiser. One missile exploded approximately 200 yards off her port beam, while the other detonated close aboard, showering the ship with fragments. BOSTON sustained minor structural damage but suffered no casualties. Less than two hours later, the Australian guided-missile destroyer HMAS HOBART (D 39) was attacked by another aircraft while operating in the same area. Three missiles struck the Australian warship, killing two sailors and wounding eleven. USS EDSON (DD 946), which was operating nearby, also came under aerial attack but escaped damage. The destroyer USS THEODORE E. CHANDLER (DD 717) was another member of the naval force operating in the area during the incidents.

Following the attacks, BOSTON joined the other ships as they reorganized their formation and assessed the damage. USS BLANDY subsequently joined the force. The damaged HMAS HOBART withdrew to Subic Bay, Philippines, for repairs, while the American ships continued their assigned operations after the immediate danger had passed.

An investigation ordered by Vice Admiral William F. Bringle, Commander Seventh Fleet, established that the attacks on BOSTON and HMAS HOBART during the early hours of June 17 had been carried out inadvertently by U.S. Air Force F-4 Phantom aircraft. Fragments recovered from the ships were identified as components of American AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missiles. The aircraft crews had mistaken radar contacts associated with the warships for hostile aircraft. The investigation also examined the loss of PCF 19 and other reports of attacks during the preceding night, but the circumstances of the patrol craft's sinking remained less certain. The incidents resulted in changes to identification and coordination procedures between American naval and air forces.

After the friendly-fire incident, BOSTON continued her second Vietnam deployment. During July 1968, she returned to naval gunfire support and Operation Sea Dragon assignments along the coast. Her 8-inch guns were employed against selected military targets, while her smaller gun batteries supported operations against other coastal objectives. The cruiser remained available for artillery support requested by ground forces operating near the Demilitarized Zone and elsewhere in northern South Vietnam.

On August 8, 1968, BOSTON and the destroyer USS MADDOX (DD 731) came under fire from North Vietnamese coastal batteries while conducting operations in the vicinity of Nhuong Ban. More than 100 rounds were fired toward the two American ships. Both maneuvered to avoid the incoming fire and escaped without damage or casualties.

On August 11, 1968, BOSTON and USS MADDOX again encountered hostile coastal artillery in the Nhuong Ban area, approximately 45 miles southeast of Vinh. North Vietnamese gunners fired about 200 rounds at the ships, with some projectiles falling close enough for fragments to strike the decks. Several rounds landed within approximately ten feet of USS MADDOX. Neither ship sustained damage or casualties during the engagement.

On August 25, 1968, BOSTON was fired upon by a North Vietnamese coastal battery northwest of Dong Hoi. Approximately 25 rounds were directed toward the cruiser. BOSTON maneuvered to avoid the incoming artillery and returned fire with her own guns. Observers subsequently reported two secondary explosions in the target area. The cruiser continued operating along the coast during the final weeks of her deployment.

During September 1968, BOSTON completed additional combat assignments with the Seventh Fleet. Her operations included naval gunfire support for American and allied ground forces and attacks against designated coastal targets. The final documented Vietnam campaign period ended on September 28. Following completion of her combat duties, the cruiser withdrew from the operational area and began the return voyage to the United States.

After returning to the East Coast in the autumn of 1968, BOSTON underwent an overhaul and maintenance period in preparation for further service. Work included repairs to machinery, electronic equipment, and weapons systems, as well as preparations for continued naval gunfire support operations. The overhaul was followed by inspections, training, and readiness exercises. Despite the ship's age, her heavy artillery remained valuable for operations off Vietnam.

On May 22, 1969, BOSTON departed the South Boston Naval Annex for her third and final Vietnam deployment. After proceeding south along the Atlantic coast, she transited the Panama Canal and continued across the Pacific. She reached Pearl Harbor approximately two weeks after leaving Boston and subsequently proceeded to the western Pacific. The deployment occurred during a period in which the United States was beginning to reduce its ground forces in Vietnam while naval units continued providing fire support for troops remaining ashore.

By June 28, 1969, BOSTON had returned to the firing line off South Vietnam and resumed naval gunfire support operations. Her principal assignment was to provide artillery support for American and South Vietnamese military forces in the northern coastal regions. The cruiser remained on station with her 8-inch and 5-inch batteries ready to respond to requests from ground commanders. Her gunfire missions were controlled by observers who transmitted target coordinates, firing corrections, and assessments of the results.

On July 6, 1969, BOSTON was conducting naval gunfire support for battalions of the U.S. Army's Americal Division in the I Corps Tactical Zone when she came under fire from a North Vietnamese coastal battery. The cruiser maneuvered to avoid the incoming artillery and suffered no damage or casualties. BOSTON did not return fire against the battery because friendly troops were operating near the target area. Following the engagement, she continued her assigned fire-support mission.

On July 9, 1969, BOSTON suffered a serious weapons accident while providing naval gunfire support south of Da Nang. A projectile exploded prematurely inside the left barrel of a twin 5-inch/38 caliber gun mount. The explosion ruptured the gun barrel and scattered fragments across the surrounding area, causing minor damage to the ship's superstructure. Six sailors were injured, none seriously. Damage-control and weapons personnel secured the affected gun mount, and BOSTON resumed her fire-support mission within approximately two hours.

Following the accident, BOSTON continued naval gunfire support operations off South Vietnam during July and August 1969. The cruiser alternated between periods on the firing line and replenishment or maintenance intervals. Her missions included support for American ground forces engaged in search-and-clear operations, defensive artillery fire for military positions, and bombardment of assigned military targets. The ship continued operating with the Seventh Fleet while American naval forces maintained a substantial presence along the South Vietnamese coast.

During September 1969, BOSTON resumed extended naval gunfire support duties in the northern part of South Vietnam. Her gun crews responded to requests from American and South Vietnamese units operating near the Demilitarized Zone, where North Vietnamese forces continued to conduct artillery and mortar attacks. The cruiser remained on call to engage enemy positions identified by ground observers and supporting aircraft.

On September 25, 1969, an enemy 82-millimeter mortar began firing on a combined American and South Vietnamese military position approximately two miles south of the Demilitarized Zone. BOSTON received a request for naval gunfire support and directed her guns against the mortar position. The bombardment silenced the enemy weapon after fewer than ten mortar rounds had been fired. No casualties or damage were reported at the military position.

On October 1, 1969, while BOSTON was still operating in Vietnamese waters, the Navy announced that the cruiser would be retired as part of a defense expenditure reduction program. Despite the announcement, BOSTON continued her assigned combat duties during the final days of the deployment.

On October 3, 1969, BOSTON experienced another serious weapons accident during a naval gunfire support mission off South Vietnam. A projectile exploded prematurely inside the right barrel of a 5-inch/38 caliber gun mount. The explosion destroyed the barrel and scattered fragments over the surrounding area. Four members of the crew were injured, none seriously, while the gun mount and nearby superstructure sustained limited damage. The crew secured the damaged equipment, and BOSTON resumed her fire-support assignment within approximately one hour.

During the first week of October 1969, BOSTON completed her final naval gunfire support missions of the Vietnam War. On October 7, her remaining 8-inch guns were fired for the last time. The cruiser subsequently withdrew from the combat area and began preparations for the return voyage to the United States. After completing the final deployment, BOSTON crossed the Pacific and returned to the Atlantic by way of the Panama Canal. On November 15, 1969, she arrived at her homeport of Boston, Massachusetts. Her arrival marked the end of her operational deployments and was followed by preparations for decommissioning.

During the remaining months of 1969 and early 1970, BOSTON underwent inactivation procedures. Ammunition and other equipment were removed, machinery spaces were secured, and the ship's records and supplies were transferred ashore. Personnel were reassigned as the crew was gradually reduced in preparation for the final decommissioning ceremony.

On May 5, 1970, BOSTON was decommissioned at Boston, Massachusetts, and placed in the reserve fleet. She was subsequently removed from the Naval Vessel Register in 1973 and was sold for scrapping in March 1975. Her disposal ended the career of the first guided-missile cruiser to enter active service with the United States Navy. BOSTON earned ten battle stars for her World War II service and five campaign stars for her participation in the Vietnam War. Her postwar awards included the Navy Unit Commendation for operations associated with the 1966 Palomares incident and a second Navy Unit Commendation for naval gunfire support during the fighting around Dong Ha in 1968.