USS Raleigh LPD-1

The USS Raleigh (LPD-1) was a game-changer for the United States Navy, introducing a new class of amphibious transport docks. Her journey began with the keel laying on June 23, 1960, at the New York Naval Shipyard in Brooklyn. This shipyard, with its rich history in shipbuilding, was the perfect place for such an innovative vessel. Raleigh was launched on March 17, 1962, and officially joined the fleet on September 8, 1962. Built with cutting-edge naval engineering, she was ready to take on her role in amphibious warfare.

Named after Raleigh, North Carolina, the ship honored Sir Walter Raleigh, the English explorer and soldier. This namesake was chosen to reflect the spirit of exploration and service that Sir Walter Raleigh embodied. The city of Raleigh, with its deep military ties, was a fitting namesake for a ship designed to bolster the Navy's capabilities.

What set the USS Raleigh apart was her design as an amphibious transport dock, a novel concept at the time. LPD-1 featured a well deck, allowing her to launch and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles directly from the ship. This was a big leap forward, enabling rapid deployment of troops and equipment to shore. Plus, with a flight deck for helicopter operations, Raleigh was versatile and effective in various missions.

The USS Raleigh's impact on the Navy was significant. She set the standard for future amphibious transport docks, showing how combining multiple functions into one vessel could enhance naval operations. Her service record, filled with exercises and operations, highlighted the strategic value of such ships in modern warfare. Raleigh's success influenced future ship designs, ensuring the Navy could project power and support amphibious operations worldwide.

As the lead ship of the Raleigh class, she was joined by USS Vancouver (LPD-2) and USS La Salle (LPD-3). This class was all about transporting and landing Marines, their gear, and supplies using landing craft or amphibious vehicles, with helicopter support. This multi-faceted approach allowed the Navy to handle everything from humanitarian missions to full-scale assaults. The Raleigh class was built to be adaptable, meeting the evolving needs of the Navy and Marine Corps.

The commissioning of USS Raleigh marked a new era in amphibious warfare for the Navy. As the first of her class, she was a trailblazer, proving the effectiveness of combining transport, landing, and support capabilities into one platform. Her commissioning ceremony was a big deal, attended by naval officials, dignitaries, and her future crew. The USS Raleigh served with distinction, participating in numerous operations and exercises, leaving a lasting mark on the Navy's amphibious capabilities.

 

USS Raleigh LPD-1: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry

The USS Raleigh (LPD-1) was a game-changer when it joined the fleet in 1962. As the first of the Raleigh-class amphibious transport docks, it was built to handle a variety of missions, from amphibious assaults to humanitarian aid. Its hull featured a well deck that could be flooded, allowing landing craft and amphibious vehicles to launch and recover with ease. This was a big deal during the Cold War, as it let the Raleigh deploy troops and gear right onto enemy shores. The ship's design also included space for advanced radar and communication systems, making it ready for action in any situation.

Technology-wise, the USS Raleigh was ahead of its time. It had cutting-edge navigation and communication gear, crucial for coordinating amphibious operations. These systems helped maintain situational awareness and ensured mission success. The ship's propulsion system was top-notch, with steam turbines powering twin screws to hit speeds up to 21 knots. This blend of tech and engineering made the Raleigh a reliable and versatile tool for the Navy.

When it came to armament, the USS Raleigh was well-equipped. It had twin 3-inch/50 caliber dual-purpose guns, ready to take on both air and surface threats. These guns were key for defending against enemy aircraft and small vessels. The ship also had smaller caliber machine guns and anti-aircraft weapons for close-in defense. This mix of firepower allowed the Raleigh to support amphibious operations and protect its crew and cargo.

The Raleigh's weaponry was complemented by its ability to carry and deploy a range of amphibious assault vehicles and landing craft. Its well deck could hold several Landing Craft Utility (LCU) and Landing Craft Mechanized (LCM) vessels, vital for moving troops and supplies from ship to shore. Plus, the ship's flight deck and hangar could handle helicopters like the CH-46 Sea Knight, offering crucial airlift capabilities. This combination of sea and air assets let the USS Raleigh carry out complex operations with precision and efficiency, projecting power and supporting US military goals across various scenarios.

 

Crew Accounts of Time Aboard

The USS Raleigh (LPD-1) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and countless experiences. The guestbook posts from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, from the camaraderie and adventures to the challenges and unforgettable moments.

**Raul Ahumada** recalls his time in 1990 as an E3, highlighting memorable port visits to Boston and Halifax. **Joey Al Alfieri**, who served in 1986 as an ABH2, cherishes the friendships made and the sadness of seeing the ship decommissioned. **Jimmy Allen**, a SN in 1980, fondly remembers transporting Marines and his transition to SM3. **David Antellocy**, an OSSN in 1983, reminisces about the North Atlantic cruise and the camaraderie with his deck division mates.

**Frank Arena** served in 1969 as an EN3 alongside his brother Tony, enjoying the bond with his A division buddies. **Norman Autrey**, an HT3 in 1975, recalls the refit in Quincy and trips to GITMO. **Tom Bausum**, a BM3 and plank owner from 1962, remembers the commissioning ceremony and early challenges. **James Bearden**, a FN in 1969, shares a humorous memory of a shipmate falling overboard in Portugal.

**Mark Beaule**, known as 'Beasley' in 1972, seeks connections with old shipmates. **Bob Beebe**, a FN and plank owner from 1962, recalls the early days in the shipyard and the first liberty in St. Thomas. **Tom Bender**, a SN in 1970, reflects on the great experiences and friendships formed. **Ken Bibb**, an EN2 in 1963, worked in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and seeks reunion information.

**Bob Borgstrom**, a SK3 in 1968, maintains friendships with old buddies and remembers the ship's bar in Norfolk. **Bart Bowe**, a GMG3 in 1985, lists several friends he hopes to reconnect with. **Dennis Bowles**, a RM2 in 1988, looks back fondly on his three years aboard. **Randy Brashears**, a CS-3 in 1971, recalls his first Med cruise and transition to cook.

**Dennis Brown**, an ETN-2 and plank owner from 1962, shares his journey to sobriety. **Cliff Brown**, a SM3 in 1970, seeks contact with old shipmates. **Nolan Burnham**, an EM3 in 1981, recounts a forklift accident and honors the Marines. **James Caddell**, who served in 1973, reflects on his diverse experiences and family life.

**Peter Campbell**, a SHIP FITTER STRIKER FN in 1963, enjoyed the adventure as a young sailor. **Douglas Cantrell**, a SEAMAN and plank owner from 1962, remembers hitchhiking home to see his fiancée. **Roger Casey**, a RM3 in 1964, recalls crossing the Arctic Circle and a mishap in Germany. **Charles Cashmore**, a RM3 in 1966, shares memories of hitchhiking home.

**Larry Cavey**, an OS-3 in 1976, respects the hard work of the deck division. **Mike Chapman**, a SN in 1985, misses his shipmates and the times in Charleston and GITMO. **Robert Cloud**, an EM in 1972, reflects on the value of computers in reconnecting with old friends. **Dennis Coffman**, a MMFA-MM3 in 1972, seeks connections with former shipmates.

**Roth Coleman**, a GYSGT in 1987, laments the ship's sinking but cherishes the good times. **Tom Coleman**, a LTJG in 1965, shares his post-Navy career and family life. **Doug Coomber**, a MM2 in 1978, fondly remembers his friends and experiences. **Rufus Credle**, a RADIOMAN PO3 (RESERVE PO2) in 1976, values the discipline and travel experiences.

**John Croce**, a BT3 in 1970, hopes to attend a reunion and reconnect with shipmates. **Kenneth Dk Crook**, a SN-DK3 in 1983, reminisces about the good old days. **William Cummings**, a QM2(SW) in 1982, recalls the tragic bombing of the US Embassy in Beirut. **Lee Cummings**, a FA in 1974, remembers his time in the engine room and the shipyard.

**Donato Custodio**, a BT3 in 1986, reflects on the hard work and good memories. **Robert Cuyler**, a L/CPL in 1977, humorously recalls a cannon firing incident. **Jack Cybulski**, a CS3 in 1966, shares memories of Caribbean cruises and a hurricane. **Joe Davis**, an E-3 in 1973, enjoyed sports and camaraderie on the well deck.

**Mike Defrank**, a GMG 3 in 1984, lists friends he hopes to reconnect with. **Stan Dembeck**, a MM2 in 1974, recalls working in the engine room and hanging out with friends. **Scott Desaulniers**, an EM2 in 1981, lists various ship mishaps and great friendships. **Rob Dicka**, a SEAMEN in 1988, remembers the good times and great people.

**David Dolan**, an ABH3 in 1967, invites old shipmates to reconnect. **Bobby Douglas**, a MMFN in 1990, remembers his time in the engine room. **Steve Drake**, a SH 3 in 1970, reflects on the great times and friendships. **Roland Duquette**, a BM3 in 1977, recalls his last walk from the ship in Scotland.

**Ernie Earnest Harn**, an E2 in 1980, shares his family life and career. **Robert Eganey**, an EN3 in 1975, recounts his first ship experiences and travels. **Ron Ekbom**, a MR3 in 1985, misses the old ship and friends. **Jimmy Ellis**, an EM2 in 1980, looks forward to reconnecting with shipmates.

**Anthony Eugene**, a SEAMAN in 1978, seeks help remembering crew members. **Jim Farkas**, an EW2 in 1977, recalls meeting the ship in Italy and various cruises. **Mark Farley**, an ET2 in 1974, enjoyed the electronics group and Med trip. **George Ferenchiak**, a SH3 in 1966, shares his journey from laundry to the ship's store.

**Norman Fillmore**, a BM3 in 1974, lists friends he hopes to find. **William Flores**, a CS-2 in 1965, humorously recalls a pier incident in Puerto Rico. **Michael Fox**, a DT2 in 1975, remembers the shipyards and Med cruise. **Heinz Frick**, an E3 in 1981, enjoys life in Florida.

**Richard Fulgham**, a Yeoman in 1965, recalls various operations and liberty ports. **Rusty Gardiner**, an ABF in 1967, cherishes the friendships made. **David Gardner**, a BT3 in 1979, remembers the hard days in dry dock. **Jerry Geiger**, an EM3 and plank owner from 1962, seeks old shipmates.

**Michael Georgantas**, an HT2 in 1977, fondly remembers Baltimore and friends. **Jeff Giacobe**, an OS2 in 1988, hopes the ship fought hard when sunk. **Steve Gidarakos**, a SM2 in 1972, misses his shipmates and the many cruises. **Rick Gifford**, a BT3 in 1986, recalls the constant underway status and low morale.

**Timothy Glennon**, a RMSN in 1989, remembers the long Desert Shield/Storm deployment. **Vincent R. Glover**, a BM3 in 1988, seeks to reconnect with old shipmates. **David Gordon**, a PN3 in 1975, shares memories of various cruises. **John Grant**, a RMSN in 1979, recalls the fun times in Baltimore and the shipyard.

**Marty Guidry**, a YN3 in 1977, served for a year and enjoyed the Med and North Atlantic cruises. **David Hammock**, an E-3 in 1980, reflects on the great times and his son's Marine service. **Andy Haraldson**, an ABF4 in 1976, cherishes the impactful memories. **Robert Harding**, an ETR2 in 1972, enjoyed the liberty ports and cruises.

**Mark Hardy**, a BT3 in 1989, appreciates the mentorship and good memories. **David Harris**, a LI3 in 1976, shares his email for reconnecting. **Ron Harvey**, a RM3 in 1986, recalls his transfer via helicopter off Lebanon. **Joe Healy**, an HT-3 in 1974, reflects on his Navy time and injuries.

**Wayne Hembree**, a SEAMAN in 1973, wishes he had made more of his time aboard. **David Henderson**, a CAPT. USMC in 1964, is writing a book on the ship's operations. **Scott Heyde**, an HT2 in 1977, humorously recalls repair locker incidents. **James Highlander**, an HT2 in 1991, decommissioned the ship and appreciates the family-like crew.

**Mark Hildebrand**, a PC2 in 1971, enjoyed the Med cruises and his postal clerk job. **Robert Hill**, a RM1 in 1976, seeks to reconnect with shipmates. **Steven Hinton**, an EN 3 in 1971, is glad to find this site. **Steve Horton**, a BM3 in 1975, recalls various cruises and shipyards.

**Mark Hovis**, an EW-2 in 1979, lists many friends he wishes to see again. **Rob Howell**, an IC3 in 1975, enjoyed the fun times with the E division crew. **Marty Huczek**, a BM3 in 1968, had a great time cruising the Caribbean and Med. **Michael Huizar**, a DECK APE in 1979, has many stories from the overhaul in Maryland.

**Bill Ingram**, an ET2 in 1977, fondly remembers the times that seemed tough then. **Michael Irvine**, a YN1 in 1982, served as the Ship's Legal Yeoman. **Doug Ivy**, a BT3 in 1965, reflects on his changing feelings about the Navy. **John Jaremchuk**, a CYN3 in 1965, shares humorous mishaps.

**John Jette**, an EN2 in 1986, seeks to reconnect with old shipmates. **Richard Johansen**, a BT 2 in 1969, recalls working on the #2 Boiler and making friends. **Shane Johnson**, a BMC RETIRED in 1975, lists friends he wants to say hello to. **Dan Johnston**, an ABF 3 in 1981, humorously recalls the payphones outside the fuel shop.

**Jim Jones**, a GMG3 in 1973, fondly remembers the good times and easy living. **Ron Jones**, a BT-3 in 1981, lists friends he hopes to reconnect with. **Boyd Kaiser**, a BT3 in 1975, seeks to hear from more shipmates. **John Karam**, a RADIOMEN in 1975, recalls the many cruises and great times.

**Thomas Kasunic**, a FIREMAN in 1978, is looking for old friends. **Hank Kegley**, a PFC - LCPL in 1976, reflects on his first Med-Float. **John Kendall**, a SN in 1976, shares his experiences and VA health care information. **Larry Kennally**, an E3 in 1977, operated the CCTV and seeks an old friend.

**Don King**, an OS2 in 1981, lists memorable places and experiences. **Tom Kistner**, an E-2 in 1969, recalls the band he was part of and seeks old friends. **Stan Knox**, a PC 3 in 1974, lists the many shipyards and cruises. **Robert Kropp**, a MM2 in 1966, values his service and the great times.

**Donald Lamb**, a BM3 in 1979, shares memories of various places and events. **George Lane**, a B.T.2 in 1974, humorously recalls hitting a train in Baltimore. **Pastor Lebron**, a SN in 1987, lists friends he hopes to reconnect with. **David Levesque**, a SEAMAN RADIO STRIKER in 1963, recalls the many times Terwilliger was busted.

**Corey Lewis**, a RM2 in 1988, sees familiar names and cherishes the memories. **Dan Lewis**, a SM3 in 1981, honors his late friend OS 3 Jeff Webb. **Don Lewis**, an EM3 in 1966, values his time on the Raleigh. **Dean Longrie**, a SA in 1988, seeks information on incidents after he left.

**Hoyt Louks**, an IC2 in 1981, fondly remembers visits to Amsterdam. **Frederic Lucas**, a GMGSN in 1987, humorously recalls the ship's breakdowns. **Scott Lucas**, an ETR2 in 1973, made the Med cruise and was discharged in Norfolk. **Chuck Mann**, a BT3 in 1985, continued his service in the reserves.

**Howard Marder**, an EM3 in 1966, recalls the many shakedown cruises. **Jack L. Martin**, an E3/AIRMAN APPRENTICE in 1973, shares his diagnosis of ADD. **Sylvester Mason**, an EM2 in 1971, fondly remembers the Med cruises and Capt Geronime. **Douglas Mauldin**, a FIREMAN in 1965, recalls friends and experiences.

**Bob May**, an ASM-2 in 1983, joined the ship off the coast of Beirut and seeks old friends. **Derrick McGrew**, a SEAMEN in 1988, remembers the good times and great people. **David Dolan**, an ABH3 in 1967, invites old shipmates to reconnect. **Bobby Douglas**, a MMFN in 1990, remembers his time in the engine room.

**Steve Drake**, a SH 3 in 1970, reflects on the great times and friendships. **Roland Duquette**, a BM3 in 1977, recalls his last walk from the ship in Scotland. **Ernie Earnest Harn**, an E2 in 1980, shares his family life and career. **Robert Eganey**, an EN3 in 1975, recounts his first ship experiences and travels.

**Ron Ekbom**, a MR3 in 1985, misses the old ship and friends. **Jimmy Ellis**, an EM2 in 1980, looks forward to reconnecting with shipmates. **Anthony Eugene**, a SEAMAN in 1978, seeks help remembering crew members. **Jim Farkas**, an EW2 in 1977, recalls meeting the ship in Italy and various cruises.

**Mark Farley**, an ET2 in 1974, enjoyed the electronics group and Med trip. **George Ferenchiak**, a SH3 in 1966, shares his journey from laundry to the ship's store. **Norman Fillmore**, a BM3 in 1974, lists friends he hopes to find. **William Flores**, a CS-2 in 1965, humorously recalls a pier incident in Puerto Rico.

**Michael Fox**, a DT2 in 1975, remembers the shipyards and Med cruise. **Heinz Frick**, an E3 in 1981, enjoys life in Florida. **Richard Fulgham**, a Yeoman in 1965, recalls various operations and liberty ports. **Rusty Gardiner**, an ABF in 1967, cherishes the friendships made.

**David Gardner**, a BT3 in 1979, remembers the hard days in dry dock. **Jerry Geiger**, an EM3 and plank owner from 1962, seeks old shipmates. **Michael Georgantas**, an HT2 in 1977, fondly remembers Baltimore and friends. **Jeff Giacobe**, an OS2 in 1988, hopes the ship fought hard when sunk.

**Steve Gidarakos**, a SM2 in 1972, misses his shipmates and the many cruises. **Rick Gifford**, a BT3 in 1986, recalls the constant underway status and low morale. **Timothy Glennon**, a RMSN in 1989, remembers the long Desert Shield/Storm deployment. **Vincent R. Glover**, a BM3 in 1988, seeks to reconnect with old shipmates.

**David Gordon**, a PN3 in 1975, shares memories of various cruises. **John Grant**, a RMSN in 1979, recalls the fun times in Baltimore and the shipyard. **Marty Guidry**, a YN3 in 1977, served for a year and enjoyed the Med and North Atlantic cruises. **David Hammock**, an E-3 in 1980, reflects on the great times and his son's Marine service.

**Andy Haraldson**, an ABF4 in 1976, cherishes the impactful memories. **Robert Harding**, an ETR2 in 1972, enjoyed the liberty ports and cruises. **Mark Hardy**, a BT3 in 1989, appreciates the mentorship and good memories. **David Harris**, a LI3 in 1976, shares his email for reconnecting.

**Ron Harvey**, a RM3 in 1986, recalls his transfer via helicopter off Lebanon. **Joe Healy**, an HT-3 in 1974, reflects on his Navy time and injuries. **Wayne Hembree**, a SEAMAN in 1973, wishes he had made more of his time aboard. **David Henderson**, a CAPT. USMC in 1964, is writing a book on the ship's operations.

**Scott Heyde**, an HT2 in 1977, humorously recalls repair locker incidents. **James Highlander**, an HT2 in 1991, decommissioned the ship and appreciates the family-like crew. **Mark Hildebrand**, a PC2 in 1971, enjoyed the Med cruises and his postal clerk job. **Robert Hill**, a RM1 in 1976, seeks to reconnect with shipmates.

**Steven Hinton**, an EN 3 in 1971, is glad to find this site. **Steve Horton**, a BM3 in 1975, recalls various cruises and shipyards. **Mark Hovis**, an EW-2 in 1979, lists many friends he wishes to see again. **Rob Howell**, an IC3 in 1975, enjoyed the fun times with the E division crew.

**Marty Huczek**, a BM3 in 1968, had a great time cruising the Caribbean and Med. **Michael Huizar**, a DECK APE in 1979, has many stories from the overhaul in Maryland.

 

USS Raleigh LPD-1: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet

The USS Raleigh (LPD-1) was a remarkable ship, always evolving to meet the needs of the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1962, it was the first of its kind, a Raleigh-class amphibious transport dock. This ship was built to carry Marines, their gear, and supplies using landing craft or amphibious vehicles. Over time, Raleigh got some serious tech upgrades—better radar, communication systems, navigation tools, and propulsion. These changes kept it in the game, ready for all sorts of missions in different waters.

Raleigh was a jack-of-all-trades. It could handle amphibious assaults, help in humanitarian crises, and tackle maritime security tasks. Its well deck was perfect for landing craft and air cushion vehicles, while the flight deck was all set for helicopter operations. This meant it could launch Marine Corps helicopters for vertical assaults. Plus, with its medical facilities and cargo space, Raleigh was a lifesaver during humanitarian missions, offering crucial support when it was needed most.

Throughout its service, Raleigh was a key player in many operations and exercises. During the Vietnam War, it was vital in amphibious operations, moving troops and gear to support combat missions. It also joined in NATO exercises, working with allies and showing the U.S. Navy's dedication to collective security. In its later years, Raleigh was a hero in humanitarian missions, like disaster relief in the Caribbean and Central America, proving its versatility and the Navy's commitment to global aid and support.

The legacy of the USS Raleigh (LPD-1) is all about adaptability and service. Its upgrades kept it at the forefront, ready for modern naval warfare and humanitarian efforts. With its wide range of mission capabilities, Raleigh was indispensable, from combat support to disaster relief. Its contributions to military operations and humanitarian missions highlight its importance in U.S. Navy history, showcasing its role in promoting security, stability, and goodwill worldwide.

 

USS Raleigh LPD-1: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations

The USS Raleigh (LPD-1) was a real workhorse of the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1962, it was the first of the Raleigh-class amphibious transport docks. This ship was all about getting Marines, their gear, and supplies where they needed to be, using landing craft and amphibious vehicles. Early on, Raleigh was busy in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, running training exercises and readiness operations. It was all about keeping the ship and crew sharp and ready for anything.

When the Vietnam War heated up, Raleigh headed to the Western Pacific. It was a big player in amphibious operations there. The ship could launch and recover landing craft and helicopters, making it a key asset in Vietnam's tough environment. Raleigh transported troops, provided logistical support, and took part in amphibious assaults. These efforts were crucial for keeping the pressure on enemy forces and supporting ground operations. Raleigh's ability to adapt to different environments made it a cornerstone of the Navy's amphibious warfare strategy.

Raleigh didn't stop there. In the 1980s, it was deployed to the Middle East during the Iran-Iraq War. The ship's presence helped secure vital sea lanes and showed the U.S. commitment to stability in the region. Raleigh also joined in on numerous NATO exercises, working alongside allied forces and boosting collective security.

Throughout its service, the USS Raleigh racked up a bunch of awards and commendations. It earned the Navy Unit Commendation, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and several campaign and service medals, like the Vietnam Service Medal and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. These honors celebrated the ship's operational success and the dedication of its crew. The legacy of the USS Raleigh (LPD-1) is a powerful reminder of its vital role in the Navy's amphibious operations and its lasting impact on naval history.

 

USS Raleigh LPD-1 Ship Specifications

Specification	Details
Class	Raleigh Class Amphibious Transport Dock
Commissioned	September 8, 1962
Displacement	13,818 tons
Length	522 feet
Beam	100 feet
Draft	23 feet
Speed	20 knots
Complement	490