USS La Moure County LST-1194
The USS La Moure County (LST-1194) was a Newport-class tank landing ship built for the United States Navy. It was laid down on November 7, 1968, at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego, California. The ship launched on December 7, 1969, and was commissioned on December 1, 1971. Named after LaMoure County in North Dakota, it continued the tradition of naming tank landing ships after U.S. counties. This ship was part of a broader effort to modernize the Navy's amphibious capabilities during the Cold War.
LaMoure County, North Dakota, is known for its agricultural roots and close-knit community. Naming the ship after this county was a nod to the American heartland and its contributions to the nation's strength. The ship's name was a reminder of the diverse backgrounds and regions that support the U.S. military.
The USS La Moure County had a unique bow ramp, allowing for the quick deployment of tanks, vehicles, and troops directly onto shore. Unlike earlier LSTs, the Newport-class ships, including the USS La Moure County, had a sleeker design and could reach speeds up to 20 knots. They also featured a stern gate, which made launching and recovering amphibious craft easier, boosting the ship's operational flexibility.
The ship's legacy in the US Navy is marked by its versatility and reliability. It participated in numerous exercises and operations, including humanitarian missions, amphibious assaults, and joint exercises with allies. Its ability to transport and deploy heavy equipment and personnel made it invaluable in both peacetime and conflict. The ship's service record reflects the evolving nature of naval warfare and the importance of adaptable support vessels.
The Newport-class ships were designed to overcome the limitations of earlier LSTs. They aimed to provide faster and more efficient amphibious operations, with better seakeeping and cargo handling capabilities. These ships were primarily used to transport and deploy tanks, vehicles, and troops directly onto unprepared beaches, supporting amphibious assaults and other military operations.
Commissioned on December 1, 1971, the USS La Moure County served the US Navy for nearly three decades before being decommissioned on August 17, 2000. Throughout its service, the ship underwent various upgrades to keep up with technological advancements and changing military needs. The commissioning of the USS La Moure County marked a significant chapter in the Navy's amphibious warfare capabilities, highlighting the importance of innovation and adaptability in maintaining naval superiority.
USS La Moure County LST-1194: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS La Moure County (LST-1194) was a Newport-class tank landing ship, a class built to enhance the capabilities of earlier models. It had a unique bow ramp, which made loading and unloading vehicles and equipment directly onto shore much easier. This was a big change from the older LSTs that used a clamshell door and ramp system. The Newport-class ships, like the USS La Moure County, had a 112-foot-long bow ramp supported by two derrick arms, allowing them to offload cargo in more challenging sea conditions. The ship was 522 feet long, with a beam of 69 feet and a draft of 17 feet, making it a powerful player in amphibious operations.
The USS La Moure County was packed with advanced navigation and communication systems for its time. It had radar and sonar systems that boosted its operational capabilities, helping it navigate and carry out missions with precision. The ship's propulsion system included six diesel engines driving two shafts, giving it a top speed of 20 knots. This speed was pretty impressive for an LST, allowing it to keep up with faster amphibious task forces. Plus, it had a helicopter deck, which meant it could deploy and retrieve helicopters, adding to its operational reach and versatility.
When it came to armament, the USS La Moure County was well-equipped to defend against both surface and aerial threats. Its main weapons were two twin 3-inch/50 caliber gun mounts, effective against surface targets and low-flying aircraft. These were backed up by smaller caliber weapons, like .50 caliber machine guns, for close-in defense against small boats and other immediate threats. The ship's armament was a balanced mix of offensive and defensive capabilities, ensuring it could protect itself and its cargo during amphibious operations.
The ship's weaponry wasn't just about mounted guns. It could also deploy various types of ordnance, like mines and depth charges, to secure beachheads and protect landing zones. The design allowed for the rapid deployment of troops and vehicles, which could be armed with portable anti-tank and anti-aircraft weapons. This multi-faceted approach to armament ensured the USS La Moure County could support a wide range of military operations, from direct assaults to logistical support missions. With its advanced technology, strong structure, and versatile armament, the USS La Moure County was a vital asset in the U.S. Navy's amphibious fleet.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS La Moure County (LST-1194) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous heartfelt memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span the ship's active years from its commissioning in 1971 until its decommissioning and eventual sinking in 2000. The memories reflect a wide range of experiences, from the camaraderie among shipmates to the unique challenges and adventures faced during deployments.
**Early Years and Plank Owners:** Several crew members who served during the ship's early years, including plank owners like Danny Achterfeld, Michael Buchan, and Edward Clausius, recall the formative experiences aboard the newly commissioned vessel. Achterfeld, who served as a BMSN and BM3 in 1971, reminisces about the friendships formed and his long naval career. Buchan, also a plank owner, vividly remembers a particularly rough wave encountered off the coast of North Carolina with Marines on board. Clausius highlights the strong bond within the crew, attributing the captain's success to the dedication of his men.
**Memorable Deployments and Adventures:** The ship's deployments brought a mix of excitement and challenges. William Ballinger, who served as an RM1 in 1972, recalls a stormy voyage to Newfoundland and enjoyable liberty in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Allen Archambault, a BT-3 in 1974, fondly remembers the camaraderie among the "crazy snipes," especially his friend Sergio Flores. Pete Asaro, an EM2 in 1976, humorously recounts the quirks of the ship's bow ramp and the unique culinary experiences during long stretches at sea.
**Camaraderie and Lifelong Friendships:** The sense of camaraderie is a recurring theme in the guestbook entries. Vince Aragon, an IC3 in 1990, cherishes the time spent with fellow crew members from various departments. Bobby Armer, an EN3 in 1994, misses his old shipmates from the engineering department. Lester Armstead, a SN-3 in 1980, reflects on the valuable life lessons learned and the lasting friendships formed. The sentiment is echoed by many others, including Vernon Babb, an MS1/E-6 in 1997, who enjoyed meeting good people on board, and Michael Baginsky, an OSCS in 1978, who salutes his old shipmates.
**Challenges and Hardships:** Life aboard the USS La Moure County was not without its challenges. John Budesa, a DK1 in 1988 and 1999, candidly describes his time on the ship as the worst of his career, expressing relief at its sinking. In contrast, Curtis Burns, an E8/ENCS(SW) in 1999, praises the ship and its crew as the best he ever sailed with. The grounding incident in 1999 is a significant event mentioned by several crew members, including Richard Bryan, a Seaman/Deck in 1999, who recalls the moment of impact in the mess hall.
**Unique Experiences and Personal Growth:** The ship provided unique experiences that contributed to personal growth. Roberto Aleman, an E4 in 1972, reflects on the sadness of learning about the ship's end while reminiscing about his time on board. Bryan Bergjans, an RM3(SW) in 1995, humorously recalls painting the ship and nearly falling overboard. Richard Cudd, an EN2(SW) in 1999, describes the grounding incident as an adventure that turned a good experience into a memorable one.
**Fond Farewells and Lasting Impact:** The final years of the USS La Moure County saw a mix of nostalgia and sadness. Crew members like Doc Campbell, an HM3 in 2000, express a sense of loss but also fond memories of the fun times and the day of the wreck. Shandeda Carney, an E-2 in 2000, remembers the ship as a second home filled with love and camaraderie. The grounding incident in Chile is a poignant memory for many, including Bradley MacInnes, a LCPL in 2000, who recalls the aftermath and the time spent in Lima, Peru.
**Conclusion:** The memories shared by the crew members of the USS La Moure County (LST-1194) paint a vivid picture of life aboard this storied vessel. From the early days of commissioning to the final moments before its sinking, the ship served as a backdrop for countless adventures, challenges, and lifelong friendships. The guestbook entries reflect a deep sense of pride, camaraderie, and nostalgia, underscoring the lasting impact of the USS La Moure County on those who served aboard her.
USS La Moure County LST-1194: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS La Moure County (LST-1194) had quite the journey during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1971, it was part of the Newport-class tank landing ships, a modern take on the World War II designs. Over the years, it got some impressive upgrades. One standout was the bow thruster, which made maneuvering in tight spots a breeze. The ship also got new navigation and communication systems, keeping it sharp and ready for action. These updates were key to keeping the ship in top shape for all sorts of missions.
The USS La Moure County was a jack-of-all-trades. It was built for amphibious operations, meaning it could land troops, vehicles, and gear right onto rough shores. This was crucial for quick deployments and support, whether in combat or during humanitarian efforts. Its well deck could handle different landing craft like the LCU and LCM, making it super versatile. Plus, it had a helicopter deck, which meant it could work with helicopters, giving it even more flexibility.
Throughout its service, the USS La Moure County was a real workhorse. It took part in many exercises and operations, including Operation Desert Storm in 1991. There, it played a big role in the amphibious assault and logistics. The ship also joined various NATO exercises, proving it could work well with allies. On top of that, it was involved in humanitarian missions, helping out in disaster-stricken areas. These efforts showed just how valuable and reliable the ship was to the Navy.
The legacy of the USS La Moure County is all about adaptability and service. Even with the challenges of modern naval warfare, it showed its worth time and again with its upgraded features and successful missions. It stayed a key part of the fleet until it was decommissioned in 2000. The ship's history is a testament to the U.S. Navy's creativity and strength, highlighting the important role of tank landing ships in projecting power and providing support worldwide.
USS La Moure County LST-1194: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS La Moure County (LST-1194) was a Newport-class tank landing ship that had a remarkable service history. Commissioned in 1971, this ship was built to transport and deploy troops, vehicles, and equipment directly onto shore, bypassing the need for port facilities. This made it a key player in many amphibious operations. Over the years, La Moure County was deployed to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the North Atlantic, often as part of larger amphibious task forces. These missions were vital for keeping the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps ready and for strengthening ties with NATO and other allies.
When it came to major conflicts, La Moure County was right in the thick of things. During the Gulf War in 1991, the ship was crucial in Operation Desert Storm. It transported and landed U.S. Marine Corps units and their gear in the Persian Gulf, helping to quickly build up coalition forces. This was key to the swift victory over Iraqi forces. The ship also took part in humanitarian missions, like the relief efforts after Hurricane Andrew in 1992, showing its versatility and the Navy's commitment to helping in times of need.
Throughout its service, La Moure County earned many awards and commendations, a testament to its outstanding performance and the dedication of its crew. It received the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during Operation Desert Storm, highlighting its critical role in the mission's success. The ship also earned multiple Battle Efficiency (Battle "E") Awards, given to ships that demonstrate top-notch performance and readiness. These honors reflect the ship's operational excellence and the professionalism of its crew.
The legacy of La Moure County is further highlighted by its role in joint and multinational exercises, which improved interoperability and strengthened military relationships. Exercises like NATO's Operation Display Determination and the annual UNITAS series in South America allowed the ship to work alongside allied navies, honing its skills in various scenarios. These exercises not only boosted the ship's readiness but also reinforced the United States' commitment to collective security and international cooperation. The history of USS La Moure County (LST-1194) is a proud chapter in the U.S. Navy's story, showcasing a spirit of service and dedication to duty.
USS La Moure County LST-1194 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Newport Class Tank Landing Ship |
| Commissioned | December 18, 1971 |
| Displacement | 8,550 tons |
| Length | 522.3 feet |
| Beam | 69.8 feet |
| Draft | 16.3 feet |
| Speed | 27 knots |
| Complement | 224 Crew 400 Troops |