USS Rushmore LSD-14
The USS Rushmore (LSD-14) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Her keel was laid on December 31, 1943, at the Moore Dry Dock Company in Oakland, California. She was launched on May 16, 1944, and commissioned on July 3, 1944. This ship was part of a broader effort to boost the Navy's amphibious capabilities, crucial for the island-hopping campaigns in the Pacific.
Named after Mount Rushmore, the iconic monument in South Dakota, the ship's name symbolized the strength and enduring legacy of the United States. Just like the monument, which features the faces of four American presidents, the name "Rushmore" was meant to evoke national pride and resilience, essential qualities during World War II.
The USS Rushmore had a well deck, allowing her to carry, launch, and recover landing craft and amphibious vehicles. This made her a key player in amphibious assault operations, transporting troops, equipment, and vehicles directly to shore. She also had a large crane and a stern gate for loading and unloading cargo and vehicles. Armed with anti-aircraft guns, she was ready to defend against enemy aircraft.
The USS Rushmore's legacy in the Navy is significant. She played a vital role in several key operations during World War II, including the invasion of Okinawa, one of the largest amphibious assaults in the Pacific. Her ability to deliver troops and equipment directly to the battlefield was crucial for victory. After the war, she continued to serve in various roles, including training exercises and humanitarian missions, contributing to the Navy's readiness and versatility.
As part of the Casa Grande class, the USS Rushmore was designed to support amphibious operations by carrying and deploying landing craft and vehicles. These ships were essential for moving troops and equipment from ship to shore quickly and efficiently, a capability vital for successful amphibious assaults. The Casa Grande-class ships were a critical component of the Navy's amphibious forces, providing the logistical support needed for prolonged operations in hostile environments.
The commissioning of the USS Rushmore on July 3, 1944, marked the start of her distinguished service. Her crew, composed of dedicated sailors and officers, worked tirelessly to keep her ready for action. Over the years, the USS Rushmore proved her versatility and reliability, earning a place of honor in naval history. Her contributions to amphibious operations during World War II and beyond highlight the importance of dock landing ships in the Navy's fleet.
USS Rushmore LSD-14: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Rushmore (LSD-14) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship, built to support amphibious operations by carrying and launching landing craft and vehicles. It had a robust, no-nonsense design, featuring a well deck that could be flooded to launch and recover landing craft. This well deck was key, letting the ship transport and deploy troops, vehicles, and equipment right onto enemy shores. Its superstructure was low-profile, minimizing its radar signature and providing a stable platform for operations. The hull, made from high-tensile steel, was tough and could withstand potential combat damage.
Technology-wise, the USS Rushmore was ahead of its time. It had a comprehensive radar suite for navigation and target acquisition, crucial for its amphibious assault role and self-defense. The communication systems were top-notch, ensuring smooth coordination with other vessels and ground forces during complex operations. Advanced damage control systems, like automated fire suppression and compartmentalization, were vital for keeping the ship operational if attacked.
When it came to armament, the USS Rushmore was well-equipped to protect itself and its embarked forces. It had twin 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns, effective against both surface and aerial threats. These guns were mounted in turrets with a wide range of motion, offering comprehensive coverage. The ship also had several 40mm Bofors anti-aircraft guns, providing rapid-fire capabilities against enemy aircraft. Smaller caliber machine guns and small arms rounded out its defenses, ensuring it could handle a variety of threats.
The ship's weaponry wasn't just about defense; it played a crucial role in offensive operations too. The well deck could carry various landing craft, like LCMs (Landing Craft Mechanized) and LCUs (Landing Craft Utility), essential for getting troops and equipment to shore. These landing craft often had their own machine guns and small arms, adding firepower during amphibious assaults. The ship's ability to launch and recover these craft quickly and efficiently showcased its design and technological sophistication, making it a formidable asset in the U.S. Navy's amphibious warfare strategy.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Rushmore (LSD-14) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and numerous global deployments. These recollections, shared in a guestbook, paint a vivid picture of life aboard the ship, the camaraderie among sailors, and the significant events that marked their naval careers.
Vivi Hatland recalls her father’s service aboard the USS Rushmore in 1966 and a memorable encounter in Reykjavik, Iceland, around 1967. She seeks information about a young man named Joe B. Quintua, whom her father met during his service.
Gerald Barton served as a Machinist's Mate Third Class (MM3) in 1960. He initially worked in refrigeration under Pat Patterson before moving to Main Control with MM1 Hofer, where he served as a throttleman.
Ronald Casey, who served as a Ship's Serviceman (SH E4) in 1960, reminisces about his multifaceted role aboard the ship. He was the ship's barber, ran the gedunk (snack bar), and managed the ship's store. He also served in the 1st Division and is on the lookout for a 1961 cruise book, which he lost in a flood.
Martin Creutz served in 1951 as a Radioman (RM). Initially part of the deck force, he later became a radio operator. He was temporarily assigned to the USS Shadwell (LSD-15) for Operation Blue Jay before joining the Rushmore.
Bernard D. Dunn, a Lieutenant Junior Grade (JG) in 1957, served as the Assistant Supply and Disbursing Officer. He is notable for establishing the USS Rushmore Association and retired in 1988 after 32 years of active duty.
Arvil Ray Erwin had a brief stint aboard the Rushmore in 1969 as a Fireman (FN). He was on board for a few months during a Mediterranean deployment and left the command upon arrival at Rota to attend Nuclear Power School. He spent most of his time as a mess cook.
Samuel Fischer, a Storekeeper Third Class (SK3) in 1955, fondly remembers running the ship's store and making many friends, hoping to reconnect with them.
Regis George served as a Seaman (SN) during a Mediterranean cruise from 1965 to 1966. He was part of the 1st Division and left the ship to attend BEE and RD A school at the Great Lakes Training Center.
Bill Grieshober, a Boatswain's Mate Seaman (BM Seaman) in 1960, reflects on his transformation from a young boy to an "old salt" who had seen the world, cherishing those formative years.
Fred Hagat, a Machinist's Mate (MM) in 1969, looks back on his time aboard with fondness, despite not realizing it was great at the time. He remembers his comrades from M-Division, including O'Dell, Altizer, MacKeithen, the Kendalls, and Braezeale.
Douglas Hall served as a Signalman Third Class (SM3) in 1960. He started in the 1st Division, working on the 02 level, side cleaning, and in the paint locker. He later became a bow hook on the LCVP with Stump Wiekle and eventually transferred to the signal bridge under SM1 Layton.
Charles Harden's granddaughter seeks information about his naval career. He served as a Machinist's Mate First Class (MM1) in the 1950s but passed away before she was born.
Robert Janess, an Electronics Technician Second Class (ET2) in 1958, recalls the friendships he made and the various ports they visited, including Cuba, Haiti, Thule, Greenland, and Nova Scotia. He also remembers their near-deployment to Lebanon during the 1958 conflict.
Paul Kijewski served as a Personnelman Seaman (PNSN) in 1970. He joined the ship on its final day and assisted with the decommissioning process, working under PN1 Robert E. Willett and alongside PN3 Richards.
Larry McCoy, a Seaman (SN) in 1964, reminisces about a Mediterranean cruise to the North Atlantic, getting married in September 1965, and the extreme temperatures they experienced, from hot to cold to hot again. He cherishes the friendships he made and hopes to reconnect with them.
Dave Murphy, a Shipfitter Third Class (SF3) in 1961, expresses a nostalgic fondness for the ship, despite its condition. He often thinks of it and his best friend, Larry Spring of E Division.
John Williams served aboard the Rushmore in 1943 and recalls a significant event where they picked up a Japanese submarine off the Philippines and brought it back to the United States. The submarine was then placed on a flat rail car to tour the country for U.S. War Bonds, earning him a 30-day leave funded by the Red Cross. He expresses pride in his ship and fellow amphibious LCM shipmates.
These memories collectively highlight the diverse experiences of the USS Rushmore's crew, from significant military operations and global travels to personal growth and lifelong friendships.
USS Rushmore LSD-14: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Rushmore (LSD-14) was a remarkable ship with a rich history. Commissioned in 1944, it was an Ashland-class dock landing ship, built for amphibious warfare. Over the years, it got several upgrades. These included modern communication systems, advanced radar, and improved propulsion. These changes kept it effective and ready for both combat and humanitarian missions.
The Rushmore was versatile. It was designed to transport and launch landing craft and amphibious vehicles. This made it crucial for beach landings and troop deployments. Its well deck could flood to launch and recover landing craft. Over time, it also took on humanitarian missions, showing its adaptability. From combat to peacetime, the Rushmore was always ready to serve.
Throughout its service, the Rushmore made significant contributions. During World War II, it played a key role in the Pacific, including the Battle of Okinawa. After the war, it continued to serve in Cold War exercises, showcasing the Navy's global reach. It also participated in joint exercises with allied navies, strengthening international cooperation and security.
Beyond its missions, the Rushmore was a platform for innovation. Its upgrades often tested new technologies and tactics, influencing the future of amphibious warfare. By integrating new systems and refining operations, it helped shape the next generation of naval vessels. The Rushmore's legacy is one of service, improvement, and adaptation, keeping the U.S. Navy at the cutting edge of maritime strategy.
USS Rushmore LSD-14: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Rushmore (LSD-14) was a key player in several major deployments and conflicts. Commissioned in 1944, it jumped right into World War II. The ship's first big mission was in the Pacific Theater, where it took part in the Battle of Okinawa. This was one of the largest amphibious assaults in the Pacific War. Rushmore's main job was to transport and launch landing craft, vehicles, and troops, providing crucial support for the invasion forces. Its ability to quickly and efficiently deploy these assets made it a vital part of the U.S. Navy's amphibious operations.
After World War II, USS Rushmore continued to serve during the Korean War. It was involved in several amphibious operations, including the famous Inchon Landing in 1950, a turning point in the conflict. Rushmore's versatility and reliability shone through as it helped rapidly deploy troops and equipment, playing a big role in the operation's success. Throughout the Korean War, the crew showed exceptional skill and dedication, earning the ship a reputation for excellence in amphibious warfare.
Beyond wartime service, USS Rushmore also took part in many peacetime deployments and exercises. During the Cold War, it regularly participated in NATO exercises, demonstrating the United States' commitment to collective security and readiness. Rushmore also engaged in humanitarian missions, like disaster relief operations after natural disasters. These missions highlighted the ship's versatility and the crew's ability to adapt to a wide range of tasks, from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.
Throughout its distinguished career, USS Rushmore received several awards and commendations, reflecting its outstanding service and the crew's dedication. Among these honors were multiple Battle Stars for its service in World War II and the Korean War. The ship also earned the Navy Unit Commendation for its exceptional performance during the Inchon Landing. These accolades are a testament to the ship's significant contributions to U.S. naval operations and its lasting legacy as a vital asset in the Navy's amphibious fleet.
USS Rushmore LSD-14 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Casa Grande Class Dock Landing Ship |
| Commissioned | July 3, 1944 |
| Displacement | 7,930 tons |
| Length | 457.7 feet |
| Beam | 72 feet |
| Draft | 16.1 feet |
| Speed | 17 knots |
| Complement | 254 Crew 240 Troops |