USS Fort Marion LSD-22
The USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship built for the U.S. Navy in the mid-20th century. It was laid down on March 13, 1945, at the Boston Navy Yard in Massachusetts. The ship launched on June 18, 1945, and was commissioned on December 29, 1945. This ship was part of a broader effort to boost the Navy's amphibious capabilities after World War II, highlighting the strategic importance of such vessels in projecting power and supporting ground operations.
Named after Fort Marion, a historic fort in St. Augustine, Florida, the ship carries a legacy. The fort, originally called Castillo de San Marcos, was renamed to honor Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War hero known as the "Swamp Fox" for his guerrilla tactics. The fort symbolizes resilience and strategic military importance, having withstood numerous sieges and changes in control over the centuries. Naming the ship after Fort Marion was a nod to the enduring legacy of American military fortifications and their role in the nation's defense.
The USS Fort Marion had some standout features. Its well deck allowed it to carry, launch, and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles. It was equipped with a large, floodable well deck that could accommodate various landing craft, including LCMs (Landing Craft Mechanized) and LCUs (Landing Craft Utility). The ship also had a robust crane system for handling cargo and equipment, along with extensive medical facilities to support amphibious operations. These features made it a versatile and essential asset for amphibious warfare.
The ship's legacy in the U.S. Navy is significant. It played a crucial role in numerous amphibious operations and training exercises throughout its service life. Its ability to transport and deploy troops, vehicles, and equipment directly onto hostile shores made it invaluable for the Navy's amphibious assault capabilities. The USS Fort Marion also participated in various humanitarian missions, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of dock landing ships in both combat and peacetime operations.
As part of the Casa Grande-class of dock landing ships, the USS Fort Marion was designed to support amphibious operations by carrying and launching landing craft and vehicles. These ships were crucial for the rapid deployment of troops and equipment during amphibious assaults, providing a critical link between the sea and the shore. With extensive cargo handling and medical facilities, they were well-suited for a variety of missions beyond their primary amphibious role.
The commissioning of the USS Fort Marion on December 29, 1945, marked the start of a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy. The ship served in various capacities, including major amphibious exercises, support for ground operations during conflicts, and involvement in humanitarian missions. Its service record reflects the evolving nature of naval warfare and the importance of versatile, multi-role vessels in maintaining maritime security and supporting national interests.
USS Fort Marion LSD-22: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship, a key player in the U.S. Navy's amphibious operations. It had a strong, practical design with a well deck that could flood, letting landing craft and amphibious vehicles come and go with ease. Built with high-tensile steel, it was tough enough for the challenges of naval life. At 457 feet long and 72 feet wide, it displaced about 7,930 tons when fully loaded. Its large, open deck was perfect for quickly getting troops and gear where they needed to be, making it a versatile tool in amphibious assaults.
For its time, the USS Fort Marion was packed with cutting-edge tech. It had advanced navigation and communication systems, crucial for the complex dance of amphibious operations. Its radar systems gave it a clear picture of its surroundings, tracking other ships and aircraft nearby. The ship also boasted a sophisticated damage control system, with fire suppression and flooding control to keep it fighting fit in combat. Powered by geared steam turbines, it could hit speeds of up to 15 knots, giving it the speed and agility needed for quick deployments and maneuvers.
When it came to armament, the USS Fort Marion was ready to defend itself against threats from the sea and sky. It had twin 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, capable of taking on both surface targets and aircraft. These were backed up by smaller anti-aircraft weapons, like 40mm Bofors and 20mm Oerlikon cannons, creating a layered defense system. The ship's weapons were strategically placed to cover all angles, ensuring it could protect itself and its crew from enemy attacks.
But the USS Fort Marion wasn't just about defense. It had offensive capabilities to support amphibious assaults, carrying landing craft like LCMs and LCUs to transport troops, vehicles, and equipment to shore. These landing craft were vital for projecting power ashore, and the ship had facilities to keep them in top shape, ready for action at a moment's notice. With its mix of strong defensive armament and flexible offensive capabilities, the USS Fort Marion was a formidable force in the Navy's amphibious warfare toolkit.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning from its commissioning in 1945 to its decommissioning in 1969. The guestbook posts from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, their camaraderie, and the various operations and ports of call that defined their service.
**Early Years and Korean War Era:** Ardean Barr, who served in 1953 as an EM2, recalls his time in Korea, Formosa, the Philippines, Borneo, Hong Kong, and Japan. His shipmate, George Brown, also an EM2, fondly remembers his E-Division buddies, including Bobby Joe Rosson and Eddie English. Don Cotnam, another EM2 from 1956, shares similar sentiments, highlighting the camaraderie and the two West Pac trips he made right out of EM school. Robert Murphy, an EN-1 in 1953, reminisces about his assignments and the various locations he visited, including Japan, Formosa, Hong Kong, and Subic Bay.
**Vietnam War and Agent Orange:** The Vietnam War era brought a different set of experiences. Raymond Bingham, a PCSN in 1965, mentions the availability of VA benefits for Agent Orange exposure, as the ship has been added to the Brown Water Navy list. Ed Chew, a Lieutenant and Supply Officer in 1965, seeks crewmen who can verify the ship's visits to Saigon for VA claims related to Agent Orange. Lane Maloney, a Lieutenant in 1966, also shares his Agent Orange claim and recalls going ashore in Danang.
**Memorable Operations and Ports of Call:** Several crew members recall specific operations and ports of call. Howard Bahr, a GMG3 in 1966, asks about his fellow shipmates and reminisces about Operation Ballistic Arch. Thomas Blatz, a MM2 in 1964, fondly remembers the times in Cam Ranh Bay and Vietnam. Alexander Diaz, an E3 in 1965, recalls Christmas in Vietnam, the trip up the Saigon River, and the rough rides during storms. Jerry Reardon, an EM3 in 1965, mentions the long trips to Saigon and the ship's boiler repair in Portland, Oregon.
**Camaraderie and Daily Life:** The sense of camaraderie and daily life aboard the ship is a recurring theme. Malcolm Bishop, an EN3 in 1964, speaks highly of the A-Division and the lessons he learned. Marion Brown, a BM2 in 1960, longs to reconnect with his shipmates, describing his time on the ship as the time of his life. Clarence Mercer, a Boatswain Mate E-4 in 1965, shares memories of his friends Westhoff and McMasters, and his role as the coxswain of the captain's gig. Ernest Webster, an SH2 in 1967, served as the ship's barber and later ran the laundry, cherishing his time aboard.
**Challenges and Hardships:** The crew also faced challenges and hardships. John Cormier, a PO3/Radarman in 1968, recalls the ship's breakdown in Da Nang harbor and the long sea tug haul back to Subic Bay. Louis Mann, an RD3 in 1969, remembers his first time at sea and getting seasick on the way to Bremerton for the ship's decommissioning. Richard Moore, who served in 1965, recounts an incident where a shipmate fell into the well deck from the helo deck, keeping him out of action for almost an hour.
**Legacy and Reflections:** The legacy of the USS Fort Marion is evident in the reflections of its crew. David Jones, a LTJG in 1953, describes his two years on the ship as the most exciting of his life. John Morrow, a Quartermaster PO3 in 1968, expresses his deep bond with his shipmates, stating he would lay down his life for them. Robert Geiser, whose father served in 1966, shares his father's pride in the ship and his shipmates, even after his passing.
In summary, the memories shared by the crew members of the USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) highlight a rich tapestry of experiences, from the early years and Korean War to the Vietnam War and beyond. The camaraderie, challenges, and daily life aboard the ship left an indelible mark on these sailors, shaping their lives and creating lasting bonds.
USS Fort Marion LSD-22: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) was a remarkable ship with a rich history. Commissioned in 1945, it was a dock landing ship designed to transport and launch landing craft and amphibious vehicles. Over its service life, it got several upgrades, like improved radar and communication systems, which kept it effective and ready for action. The propulsion systems were also enhanced, boosting speed and fuel efficiency to meet the demands of modern naval warfare.
This ship was versatile. It could handle a wide range of missions, primarily supporting amphibious assaults by deploying Marines and their gear onto hostile shores. Its well deck could carry various landing craft, like the LCM and LCU, making it crucial in amphibious warfare. The Fort Marion also offered logistical support, medical facilities, and command and control capabilities, making it a multi-functional asset in both combat and humanitarian missions.
The USS Fort Marion made significant contributions to the fleet. It took part in key operations during the Korean War and the Vietnam War, playing a vital role in landing troops and supplies. The ship's ability to operate in diverse environments—from the icy Arctic waters to the tropical climates of Southeast Asia—showed its adaptability and resilience. Often serving as a flagship for amphibious task forces, it coordinated complex operations that required seamless integration of air, land, and sea assets.
Beyond combat, the Fort Marion was active in peacetime missions and international collaborations. It frequently participated in joint exercises with allied navies, enhancing interoperability and strengthening global maritime partnerships. Its humanitarian missions, like disaster relief operations, highlighted the ship's ability to provide critical aid when needed. Through these varied roles, the USS Fort Marion exemplified the versatility and strength of the U.S. Navy's amphibious forces, leaving a lasting legacy of service and dedication.
USS Fort Marion LSD-22: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) was a remarkable ship with a rich history. Commissioned in 1945, it was ready to join the final push of World War II. But the war ended suddenly after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. So, the Fort Marion started its journey with peacetime operations and training exercises.
Its first big moment came during the Korean War. The ship transported troops, vehicles, and equipment to the Korean Peninsula, providing crucial support to United Nations forces. It was a lifeline, ensuring that the troops had what they needed to keep going.
In the Vietnam War, the Fort Marion was back in action. It played a key role in amphibious operations, moving Marine and Army units along the Vietnamese coast. Its well deck was perfect for carrying landing craft and amphibious vehicles, which were essential in Vietnam's tricky riverine and coastal areas. The ship wasn't just about transport; it was a mobile base, offering repair and maintenance for smaller craft and medical support for the wounded. This versatility showed just how important dock landing ships are in modern naval warfare.
Throughout its service, the USS Fort Marion earned many awards and commendations. It received multiple Battle Stars for its service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, recognizing its participation in major combat operations. The ship also received the Navy Unit Commendation, highlighting its outstanding performance and heroism. These honors reflect the dedication and bravery of the crew who served aboard.
The legacy of the USS Fort Marion (LSD-22) is one of steadfast service and adaptability. From its early days after World War II to its active roles in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the ship showed the critical importance of amphibious warfare capabilities. Its numerous deployments and commendations are a testament to its significant contributions to U.S. naval operations. The Fort Marion's history is a reminder of the vital role dock landing ships play in maintaining global maritime security and supporting U.S. military objectives worldwide.
USS Fort Marion LSD-22 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Casa Grande Class Dock Landing Ship |
| Commissioned | January 29, 1946 |
| Displacement | 7,930 tons |
| Length | 457.7 feet |
| Beam | 72 feet |
| Draft | 16.1 feet |
| Speed | 17 knots |
| Complement | 254 Crew 240 Troops |