USS Catamount LSD-17
The USS Catamount (LSD-17) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Her keel was laid down on March 5, 1944, at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Newport News, Virginia. She was launched on August 22, 1944, and officially commissioned on December 9, 1944. The Catamount was part of a crucial effort to boost the Navy's amphibious capabilities during a critical time in the war, especially in the Pacific Theater.
Named after the catamount, a term for wild cats like the cougar and mountain lion, the ship's name symbolized agility, strength, and predatory prowess. These qualities were vital for her role in amphibious operations. The name "Catamount" was meant to evoke fierce independence and resilience, traits the ship and her crew embodied throughout their service.
The USS Catamount had some standout features. Her well deck allowed her to carry, launch, and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles. She could accommodate several landing craft, such as LCMs (Landing Craft Mechanized) and LCVPs (Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel). The ship also had a strong crane system for handling heavy equipment and cargo, plus extensive medical facilities for treating casualties during assaults. These features made her a versatile and vital part of the Navy's amphibious fleet.
The Catamount's legacy in the Navy is marked by her significant contributions to numerous operations and post-war activities. She played a key role in the Battle of Okinawa during World War II, providing critical support for landing and supplying troops. After the war, she continued to serve in various capacities, including during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Her long service life and adaptability underscored the enduring value of dock landing ships in the Navy's strategy.
As part of the Casa Grande-class, the USS Catamount was designed to support amphibious operations by transporting and launching landing craft and vehicles. These ships were crucial for the rapid deployment of troops, equipment, and supplies directly onto hostile shores. This capability was essential for executing amphibious assaults, which required precise coordination and the ability to sustain operations in contested environments. The Casa Grande-class ships, including the Catamount, were instrumental in expanding the Navy's amphibious warfare capabilities during and after World War II.
The commissioning of the USS Catamount on December 9, 1944, marked the start of a distinguished career spanning several decades. The ceremony was a significant event, attended by naval officials, shipyard workers, and the crew. Her entry into service came at a pivotal moment in the war, as the Allies prepared for major operations in the Pacific. The Catamount's readiness and capabilities were quickly put to the test, proving to be an invaluable asset in securing victory in the Pacific Theater.
USS Catamount LSD-17: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Catamount (LSD-17) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship, a key player in the U.S. Navy's amphibious operations. This ship was all about getting the job done. It had a well deck that could flood, letting landing craft and amphibious vehicles come and go with ease. At 457 feet long, with a beam of 72 feet and a draft of 18 feet, it had plenty of room for troops, vehicles, and gear. Fully loaded, it displaced about 7,930 tons and housed around 326 officers and crew. The Catamount was built to be tough and flexible, ready to take on various roles in assaults and support missions.
Now, let's talk tech. The Catamount had a steam propulsion system with two boilers and two geared steam turbines, cranking out 12,000 shaft horsepower. This setup let the ship hit speeds up to 15.4 knots and travel about 7,200 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots. It was also packed with advanced navigation and communication gear, like radar and sonar, boosting its ability to work with other naval units and handle complex operations.
When it came to firepower, the Catamount was no slouch. It started with two twin 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose gun mounts, perfect for taking on both surface and air targets. These were backed up by 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns and 20mm Oerlikon cannons, adding extra layers of defense against enemy planes and small threats. Over time, its armament evolved to meet new challenges, showing how naval warfare changed during its service.
The Catamount's weapons were all about keeping it safe in dangerous waters. The 5-inch/38 caliber guns were known for their precision and versatility, great for supporting landings and fending off aircraft. The 40mm and 20mm guns added more protection, creating a strong defense against air attacks. Plus, it had depth charge projectors and hedgehog anti-submarine mortars to tackle underwater threats. With these systems, the Catamount was well-equipped to support amphibious operations and defend itself.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Catamount (LSD-17) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning various years and significant events. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, from routine duties to extraordinary experiences.
David Barbee served from 1957, starting as a Machinist's Mate Fireman (MMFN) and rising to Machinist's Mate First Class (MM1). His entire tenure was spent in the Starboard Engine (Main Control), which was also his General Quarters (GQ) station. After seven years, he transferred to Recruit Training Command in San Diego.
Gary Beckman joined the ship in Hawaii in 1965 as an E5 Shipfitter Metalworker Second Class (SFM2) and served until August 1969. His journey included a deployment to Vietnam. Post-service, he returned to work at ALCOA, retiring after 36.5 years.
Robert Bledsoe reported aboard in Yokosuka, Japan, during the 1964 Westpac deployment and left in 1967. He worked in main control, the 2 Pump Room, and the Boat Shop.
Art Castro served in 1955 as an Interior Communications Electrician Fireman (ICFN). He vividly recalls Operation Redwing, describing the nuclear detonations as both spectacular and frightening, with unforgettable colors. He cherishes the friendships and the direction the Navy provided him.
Timothy Cooper joined the ship in 1964 as a Seaman (SN) straight from boot camp. His first deployment took him to Vietnam, with stops in California and Hawaii. He later attended Electronics Class A school and transferred to the USS Union (AKA 106).
Norman Culver served from 1953, following his graduation from Class A Gunner's Mate School. He was assigned to the ship's 5"/38 Gun.
John Daugherty participated in Operation Redwing in 1956 as a Seaman (SN) and was promoted to Personnelman Third Class (PN3). He also crossed the international date line, the equator, and the Arctic Circle.
Donald Etzler came aboard on New Year's Eve 1964 as a Seaman Apprentice (SA) and left in December 1965 as a Signalman Second Class (SM2). He credits mentors Gary Walker McClure and SMC Rollins for teaching him valuable life lessons.
Michael Hamilton served in 1966 as a Yeoman Third Class (YN3). Decades later, he fondly remembers the camaraderie and sense of purpose he felt while serving.
Gary Hinkle was aboard during the 1962 Westpac trip as an Electronics Technician Second Class (ET-2(SS)). He recalls fun times playing volleyball in the well deck and a mission transporting helicopters and a UDT squad up the Mekong River to Saigon.
Frank Hostler served in 1956 as a Fireman (FN) during the atomic bomb testing in the South Pacific. He is seeking to reconnect with fellow crew members from that time.
Ronald Larson served in 1956 as an Interior Communications Electrician Second Class (IC2). He recalls the H-bomb tests, transporting construction teams, and the beauty of the South Pacific atolls.
Anslem Lott served from 1959 to 1962 as a Seaman (SN). His service included trips to Swan Island, Portland, Oregon, Chile, and a Westpac deployment.
Paul Marrs joined the ship in 1965 as an E3 straight from Recruit Training Command in San Diego. He caught the ship in Subic Bay and went directly to Vietnam.
Robert Martin served from 1962 to 1963 as a Fireman (FN), standing watch as a throttle man in the Starboard Engine Room. He left the ship during a Westpac cruise to attend Submarine School.
Norman Nelson served as a Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) during Operation Redwing, the Tachen Island Evacuation, and a severe storm in the Bering Sea from 1953 to 1956.
William Osberg served from 1961 as a Fire Control Technician Gunfire Controlman Seaman (FTGSN) and left as a Fire Control Technician Gunfire Controlman Second Class (FTG2) for Submarine duty. He recalls the hard work and camaraderie of the crew.
Roy Richie reported aboard while the ship was in dry dock in Long Beach in 1962. He stayed through two Vietnam deployments and recalls a minesweeper explosion and numerous liberty ports in the Westpac region.
Timothy Robb served from 1966 as a Radioman Third Class (RM3), reporting aboard in Subic Bay and leaving just before the 1968 Westpac cruise.
Ed Sinclair served in 1964 as an Electronics Technician Radar Third Class (ETR3). He recalls transporting minesweeping boats to Okinawa and a tragic explosion during a mine exercise.
Richard Smith served from 1962 as an Engineman Second Class (EN2), participating in two Westpac tours and an overhaul at Todd Shipyard in Seattle. He left the ship for Project Shad in Pearl Harbor and was discharged in 1965.
David Smith served in 1965 as a Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG). His first ship out of college, he experienced the 1965 yard period and the 1965/1966 7th Fleet attachment supporting the Vietnam effort.
Larry Wagoner served in 1963 as an Engineman Third Class (EN3). He recalls the great crew, the hard work, and the memorable experiences, both good and bad.
These memories collectively highlight the diverse experiences of the USS Catamount's crew, from routine duties and promotions to significant historical events and personal growth.
USS Catamount LSD-17: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Catamount (LSD-17) was a remarkable ship that saw many changes during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945, it was a dock landing ship, built to transport and launch amphibious craft and vehicles. Over the years, the Catamount got several upgrades. In the 1950s, it was modernized to boost its amphibious assault capabilities, with new radar systems and better communication gear. The 1960s and 1970s brought more changes, like helicopter landing platforms and improved defensive weapons, which made it more versatile and able to handle hostile environments.
The Catamount's missions grew alongside its upgrades. It started with amphibious warfare but soon took on roles in humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and special operations support. Its well deck and crane systems were perfect for deploying landing craft, vehicles, and troops right onto shorelines, making it crucial for amphibious assaults. Plus, it could act as a mobile base for helicopters, extending its reach for missions like search and rescue or logistical support. This versatility meant the Catamount could adapt to the ever-changing needs of naval warfare and peacetime missions.
The ship's contributions were significant. During the Korean War, it was key in several amphibious operations, including the famous Inchon landing, which was a turning point in the conflict. In the Vietnam War, the Catamount supported riverine and coastal operations, showing its adaptability in various combat scenarios. Beyond combat, it took part in many peacetime exercises and operations, boosting the Navy's readiness and working with allied forces. Its ability to transport and deploy Marines, equipment, and supplies made it a cornerstone of the Navy's amphibious capabilities for decades.
But the Catamount wasn't just about military might. It also played a big role in international cooperation and goodwill. The ship joined joint exercises with allied navies, strengthening partnerships and enhancing collective security. Its involvement in humanitarian missions, like disaster relief after natural calamities, highlighted the Navy's commitment to global humanitarian assistance. The Catamount's legacy is one of adaptability, resilience, and unwavering service, reflecting the broader mission of the U.S. Navy to protect and serve in both war and peace.
USS Catamount LSD-17: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Catamount (LSD-17) was a real workhorse of the U.S. Navy, especially during the mid-20th century. Commissioned in 1945, right at the tail end of World War II, she jumped into action by supporting occupation forces in Japan and helping bring Allied prisoners of war back home. As the world changed, so did her missions. During the Korean War, the Catamount was a key player, moving troops, vehicles, and gear to where they were needed most. Her ability to launch and recover landing craft made her a vital part of the U.S. strategy in the region.
When the Vietnam War rolled around, the Catamount's role grew even more. She was right there in the thick of it, transporting Marines and their equipment to Vietnam's shores. Her well-deck was perfect for quickly deploying amphibious vehicles and landing craft, which were essential for operations along the rivers and coasts. The Catamount was involved in significant operations like Operation Starlite and Operation Deckhouse V, proving just how crucial she was in supporting ground forces and keeping everything moving smoothly.
The Catamount's hard work didn't go unnoticed. Over her years of service, she racked up a bunch of awards and commendations. She earned multiple Battle Stars for her efforts in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, a nod to her participation in major combat operations. The ship also received the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation, highlighting the crew's exceptional teamwork and operational excellence.
All in all, the USS Catamount (LSD-17) was a shining example of what amphibious warfare ships can do. Her deployments across different conflict zones showed off her adaptability and strategic importance. The awards and commendations she and her crew received are a testament to their dedication and outstanding service. The Catamount's story is a proud part of U.S. Navy history, showing just how important amphibious operations are in modern naval warfare.
USS Catamount LSD-17 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Casa Grande Class Dock Landing Ship |
| Commissioned | April 9, 1945 |
| Displacement | 7,930 tons |
| Length | 457.7 feet |
| Beam | 72 feet |
| Draft | 16.1 feet |
| Speed | 17 knots |
| Complement | 254 Crew 240 Troops |