USS Shreveport LPD-12

The USS Shreveport (LPD-12) is an Austin-class amphibious transport dock that served the United States Navy. Her keel was laid down on December 27, 1965, at the Lockheed Shipbuilding and Construction Company in Seattle, Washington. After careful construction, she was launched on October 22, 1966. The USS Shreveport was commissioned on December 12, 1970, kicking off her journey in the Navy. Built during the Cold War, she was part of a push to boost the Navy's amphibious strength, ensuring the U.S. could project power and respond to global crises.

Named after Shreveport, Louisiana, the ship honors a city with a rich military history. This tradition of naming ships after cities and states highlights their contributions to the nation. Shreveport, the third-largest city in Louisiana, has deep military ties, making it a fitting namesake for a ship designed to support and transport Marines. Naming the USS Shreveport not only honored the city but also strengthened the bond between the Navy and the American public, emphasizing community support for the armed forces.

The USS Shreveport is known for her well deck, which allows for launching and recovering landing craft and amphibious vehicles, and her flight deck, which supports helicopter operations. Equipped with advanced communication and navigation systems, she's a versatile platform for various missions. Her medical facilities, including a surgical suite and intensive care units, enable her to provide critical care in combat and humanitarian situations. These features make the USS Shreveport a formidable asset in the Navy's amphibious fleet.

The USS Shreveport's legacy in the Navy is marked by extensive service in various operations and exercises. Over the years, she participated in numerous deployments, including humanitarian missions, peacekeeping operations, and combat support roles. She played a crucial role in operations like Desert Storm and provided vital support during disaster relief efforts. Her adaptability and reliable performance earned her a distinguished reputation within the Navy.

As part of the Austin-class, the USS Shreveport was designed to enhance the Navy's amphibious warfare capabilities. These ships transport and land Marines, their equipment, and supplies using embarked landing craft or amphibious vehicles, supported by helicopters. The Austin-class ships are key to the Navy's ability to conduct amphibious assaults, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations. Their design, with a combination of well deck and flight deck, allows for high operational flexibility, making them valuable in a wide range of scenarios.

Commissioned on December 12, 1970, the USS Shreveport began her service when the Navy was expanding its amphibious capabilities to meet global demands. The commissioning ceremony was a significant event, attended by naval officials, dignitaries, and representatives from Shreveport. It marked the culmination of years of planning and construction, signaling the USS Shreveport's readiness to join the fleet. Over the years, her crew upheld the highest standards of naval service, contributing to her storied legacy.

 

USS Shreveport LPD-12: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry

The USS Shreveport (LPD-12) was an Austin-class amphibious transport dock. These ships were built to transport and land Marines, their gear, and supplies using landing craft or amphibious vehicles. The Shreveport stretched 570 feet long and had a beam of 84 feet. This size was perfect for its main job: amphibious warfare. Its well deck could hold up to four landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) or a mix of traditional landing craft. These could be launched and recovered through a stern gate. Above the well deck, the flight deck supported helicopter operations, making the ship even more versatile in deploying troops and equipment.

The USS Shreveport was packed with advanced tech for its varied missions. It had a top-notch command and control system for smooth communication and coordination with other naval and Marine units. Its radar and navigation systems were cutting-edge for their time, giving accurate situational awareness in different environments. The ship's propulsion system included two boilers and two steam turbines, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 21 knots. This meant it could deploy quickly when needed.

For defense, the USS Shreveport had a range of weapons to protect against air and surface threats. It was armed with two 20mm Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS), which acted as a last line of defense against missiles and aircraft. The ship also had two twin 3-inch/50 caliber gun mounts, effective against surface targets and low-flying aircraft. These weapons were backed by electronic countermeasures and decoys to confuse enemy targeting and boost the ship's survival in hostile situations.

The Shreveport's firepower was enhanced by its ability to deploy Marine units with their own weapons and vehicles. Its well deck and flight deck allowed for the quick deployment of amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs), light armored vehicles (LAVs), and various helicopters, like the CH-46 Sea Knight and the CH-53 Sea Stallion. This mix of shipboard and embarked weaponry let the USS Shreveport project power ashore effectively, supporting everything from humanitarian missions to full-scale amphibious assaults.

 

Crew Accounts of Time Aboard

The USS Shreveport (LPD-12) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and countless experiences. The ship's guestbook is filled with reflections that paint a vivid picture of life aboard this vessel, from its commissioning to its decommissioning.

Jacob Hamby, who served as an ABF2 (SW) in 1996, recalls the hard work and the mix of good and bad times during his two cruises. He made E-6 on shore duty before transitioning to a career as a registered nurse and an Ironman competitor. Dominick Acquaro, a MM3 in 1973, fondly remembers his colleagues, including Glazier, Dodds, and Chief Charles. Norman Allen, an AA in 1970, seeks to reconnect with fellow airdales from the ship's early days and its equator crossing.

Ralph Allsopp, a plankowner and ENSIGN in 1970, served as the interim Officer in Charge of the pre-commissioning crew. Mike Altman, a young E3 Hospital Corps Striker in 1974, reminisces about his time in sick bay and being medivac'd off with the Commodore. A town Anderson, a BM2(SW) in 2002, was moved by seeing the ship in Philadelphia, bringing back memories from his service.

Phillip Ashcraft, an HT1 in 1981, enjoyed his time as the LPO of R-Div, despite some challenges. Clyde Atwood, an EM3 in 1982, reflects on the constant state of being either broken or underway, and his wish for a better outcome in the Navy East Regionals in skiing. Steve Badaczewski, a Boatswain's Mate Seaman in 1981, cherishes the great times and memories, hoping to reconnect with old shipmates.

Marty Baggott, a GM3 in 1973, recalls the "BIG WAVE" off Hatteras and the friends he made, including Todd Baldwin and Steve Luca. Leslie Bailey, a SN in 1989, expresses sadness over the ship's decommissioning and seeks to reconnect with shipmates David Rhodes and Randall Brookshire. Doug Ballard, a CAPTAIN, USMC in 1978, remembers the long turnover with his predecessor and the positive overall experience.

Scott Barum, a SK2 in 1987, has a mix of good and bad memories but overall had fun, suggesting a reunion in Lisbon. Allan Barwick, an E3 in 1970, reaches out to the original crew for contact. Andrew W Bazar, an ETN2 in 1974, lists the various port calls and the memorable experiences they brought.

Larry Beaty, a BM3 in 1977, reflects on the great cruises and the fun he had, noting that his youngest son is now in the Navy. Robert Beck, who served in 1997, enjoys his retirement and gives a shout-out to Eric Jost. Becker Becker, a CSSN in 2005, recalls the insane people he met and the camaraderie in repair locker 3 FIREPARTY.

Josh Becker, also a CSSN in 2005, appreciates the strict but educational environment of his first command. Greg Benegar, an RM3 in 1991, is excited to reconnect with fellow RMs. Ricky Bennett, a DC3 in 2003, fondly remembers the people he met and the experiences he had.

Richard Berkley, a PN2 in 1972, values the lifelong friends he made and the great memories from the Med '73. Wayne Bernard, an ABHC in 1973, had a good tour of duty, made many friends, and retired as an E8 in 1981. Norm Blackwell, a PN2 in 1982, reflects on his busy tour and the haze gray, underway life.

Carl Bland, a PN2 in 1970, is proud of being a plankowner and becoming a Shellback on the maiden voyage. Chris Blythe, an E-3 in 1992, lists the shipmates he served with and his current career as a firefighter. Mark Boardman, an SH3 in 1975, remembers the big wave at the Cape and the friends he made.

Keith Bohanan, an SH3 in 1977, recalls the unofficial ship motto "No Bar Too Far" and the fishing trip owed to him by Mark Davis. Theodore Bolthouse, an RM3 in 1983, enjoyed his tour and retired from the Reserves in 2004. Alan Bonser, a LTJG - LT in 1977, vividly remembers the near-collision with the USS Guam during Northern Wedding.

Larry Bowman, an EW1 in 1982, reminisces about Beirut, Antalya, and Harstad, Norway, and the memorable Christmas picnic off Beirut. John Boyle, a LT, DENTAL in 1978, values the significance of his time aboard the Shreveport. Robert Bradley, an ASAN in 2004, misses the ship and hopes to reconnect with shipmates.

Richard Brannon, a SM3 in 1971, often thinks about the ship and his shipmates, cherishing his 1973 Med-Cruise yearbook. Bmc Brennan, a CWO5 in 2003, proudly states, "Many are called, Few are chosen Boatswain Mates." Carl Briles, a PN2 in 1976, recalls the various cruises and the good times despite hating his job.

Randall Brookshire, an ABF3 in 1989, can still navigate the ship in his mind and misses it dearly. Bob Brostrom, a PH3 in 1978, remembers the Northern Wedding cruise and the near-collision with the USS Guam. Patrick Brotherton, a SMSA in 1981, survived a 30-foot fall off a rope ladder and fondly remembers his time with the signalmen.

Ronald Brown, an OS3 in 1980, was the youngest on the ship and enjoyed the various cruises and the camaraderie. William Brown, an RM3 in 1984, recognizes some names and hopes more shipmates sign in. Michael Bryant, an FC1 in 1984, had a great time and met some really cool people.

Harold Bunt, an E3 HT in 1970, recalls becoming a Blue Nose and a Shellback, and the good times with Jim Morland. Peter Burdett, a LCDR in 1982, served as the AIR BOSS during North Sea ops and Beirut for Christmas 1982. Dave Burgh, a BM3 in 1975, remembers the good times and the friends he made.

Bryan Burney, an HT2 in 1977, was the only high-pressure welder and enjoyed the various cruises. Gordon Burns, a RMCM in 1977, served as the Command Master Chief and had a great last two years of his career. Joaquin Cadena, an MM1(SW) in 2002, found the duty challenging but rewarding.

Dan Canipe, a SERGEANT in 1988, was a jarhead in charge of a Navy space and appreciated the professional and accommodating crew. Gibson Cappareella, an E-3 in 1972, worked in various roles and enjoyed the first Med cruise and a Caribbean cruise. Carmelo Castro, a PO3/YN3 in 2002, enjoyed his first command and the camaraderie.

William Champion, an HT3 in 1984, had some of the best times in his Naval Service on the Shreveport. Ray Chapman, a RMSN in 1973, is grateful for the care he received as a young seaman. Steve Chaszeyka, a RM3 in 1970, recalls the collision with the Nashville and the adventures in Paris and Corfu.

Patrick Chiari, a CWO2 in 2000, had a great first officer tour and learned a lot from the crew. Charles Christoph, a LTJG in 1974, remembers the good liberty with R Div and the friends who attended his wedding. Richard Clark, a LT in 1988, served under multiple COs and had the best engineering crew in the fleet.

Jerry Clark, an E3 in 1970, recalls the good times with his friends and the memorable events like showing Woodstock in the Helo hanger. Dan Clifford, an EN3 in 1972, was in charge of A-Div Steam-Heat and enjoyed the various cruises. Ronald Coe, an MS3 in 1979, served as the personal cook for Capt Richard White and had a memorable ride.

Kevin Colley, an EN3 in 1982, went on multiple cruises and had fun despite the challenges. Harry Collis, a LTJG in 1971, stayed for 30 years in the Reserves and retired as a CAPT. Kevin Comstock, an HT-2 in 1981, spent a lot of time with great people and remembers the crazies on board.

Martin Conklin, an FC2 in 1986, is living in NC and working in VA, and would like to hear from old buddies. Don Conklin, a BM2 in 1986, had great times and memories on board. Leonard Conner, an EM-3 in 1970, went on the maiden voyage and enjoyed the various cruises.

Chris Courter, an MM3 in 2005, remembers the camaraderie and what it meant to be a real sailor. Rob Cracchiolo, an HT 3 in 1970, is a plankowner and remembers the good times and the laughable moments. Philip Crawford, an IT2-SW in 1997, recalls the ship running aground in the Suez Canal and the repairs in Israel.

Thomas Culley, a DC3/Sergeant in 1995, transitioned to the Army and is nearing retirement. Kyle Dahl, an E6 in 1992, caught the boat in Rota and decided to join the Seabees. Jimmy Davis, a PC3 in 1970, is a plank owner and became a shellback on board.

Rick Davis, an IC3 in 1971, missed being a plank owner but became a shellback and is looking for old shipmates. Roy De La Fuente, an E3 in 1976, had the best time of his life on the Shreveport. Mark De Michiel, an IC2 in 1975, remembers the hurricane coming back from the Med and the hot dogs for three days.

Marc Deitsch, an MS3 in 1986, had fun times in the Brooklyn Navy Yard and spent the rest of his time in the Galley. Jeff Delaney, a YN2(SW) in 1982, served in various yeoman roles on board. Harry Deverna, a BM2 in 1991, misses the steel beach picnics and the swim call in the well deck.

Tony Di Luciano, an E4 in 1970, is a plankowner and sailed the maiden voyage from Bremerton to Norfolk. Dale Dickerson, an HT2 in 1980, had a love-hate relationship with his time on the Shreveport but wouldn't trade it. Big D Doster, an OS2 in 1999, found the Shreveport to be a memorable experience.

Douglas Douty, a BM3 in 1987, hopes all is well with old shipmates and gives a shout-out to the gang. Darrin Dowd, an SK3 in 1984, is sorry to hear about the ship's decommissioning and plans to visit Philly for one last look. Pete Downes, an ENS in 2006, is currently the Admin Officer and is looking for former crewmembers to attend the decommissioning ceremony.

Chuck Drahos, an MM2 in 1983, had one of the wildest duty stations in his Navy career and enjoyed the fun times. Wilfred Drew, an ETN3 in 1970, is looking to get in touch with others from the commissioning crew. Robert Dripps, a BT1 in 1983, had a lot of good and hard times and would do it all over again.

Nelson Driver, a YN3 in 1971, had the best duty station under the command of Captain William A. Gureck. James Driver, an SMC in 1977, served as Chief Master at Arms until his retirement in 1979. Greg Dudash, an EN3 in 1984, had good times playing hockey in the well deck and making rod play goalie with no pads.

Wayne Eason, an RM3 in 1976, recalls the New York arm of the gang and the memorable weekends. Robert Easter, an (EW)SN in 1976, remembers the weather surprise for the amphip ops off the Shetlands and is looking for old shipmates. Randall Elliott, an HT-2 in 1973, remembers the friends he made and the loss of lives from the big wave.

Roger Ellis, an MR2 in 1983, helped bring the Machine Shop back to A-Gang and had great deployments. Kenneth Farish, a QM2 in 1978, enjoyed his time on board and is now with the US Border Patrol. Brian Faul, an FC2 in 1999, misses the good times on the Shreveport and worked for the best CO ever.

Marchiz Felton, an E-4/OS3 in 2001, had a wild ride and remembers the ones who didn't make it. Karl Finklea, a BM 3 in 1988, still talks about the old days and looks forward to hearing from old shipmates. Jeff Fitzsimons, an HT2 in 1976, is proud to have served and is still working for Uncle Sam.

Robert Fraize, an OS2 in 1975, counts down the days of discharge but now cherishes the good times and friends. Jim Fritz, a YN3 in 1981, remembers the great guys and the time spent in Beirut. James Gabisch, a BM3 in 1983, started as an undesignated seaman and made BM3 on the Shreveport.

James Jpaul Gaddy, a PCSN in 1976, was the postal clerk and played in the ship band. Roman Gamble, an ET3 in 1992, had a great time and is looking for old shipmates. Cary Gavan, an MM3 in 1985, had tough years on the Shreveport but also fond memories.

Dan M. Gay, an HT1 in 1975, came aboard just in time for Med 77 and battled the Zumwalt changes. Brandon George, an OS3/E4 in 1999, is looking to reconnect with shipmates. Rick Giancarlo, an MM2 in 1983, remembers Gitmo, the Med Cruise, and the tough engineers.

Mark Gilbert, an EM2 in 1972, had a wild time in the 70s and remembers the Kentucky Bar in Palma, Spain. Michael Gilman, a YEOMAN E-4 in 1978, is trying to find Bos'n Eddie Spain. Douglas Glazier, an MM3 in 1974, worked in the forward Engine Room with a great group of guys.

Victor Gomez, an E-3 AIRMAN in 1974, remembers the memorable days and the band on the ship. Felipe Gonzales, an EN3(SW) in 1998, had a blast and met a lot of cool people. Dan Gore, a LTJG in 1972, served as the Supply Corps Officer and went on the North Atlantic tour and Med Cruise.

Don Gourley, an LI2 in 1988, served over 5 years on the Shreveport and is now living in Jax, Florida. Aaron Gregory, an OS2(SW)/SFC in 1996, had a great experience and is looking to connect with shipmates. Gary Gregory, a SN in 1970, is a plankowner and remembers the great times during the shakedown period.

Gary Grice, an MM2 in 1989, spent his entire time in the Oil Lab except for a short stint in M Division. Mike Griffin, an MM2 in 1989, has fond memories and would love to meet up with old friends. Kim Gross, an ENFA in 1978, had good and bad times and is looking for old shipmates.

Jim Haire, an RMSN in 1985, had a great experience and misses his friends. Merv Hall, an MM-2 in 1977, is looking for old shipmates and would love to hear from more of the crew. Roger Hamilton, an E3 in 1970, enjoyed his time aboard the Shreveport, especially the equator crossing.

Gary Harbison, an E3 in 1970, commissioned the ship in Bremerton and found the Panama Canal very interesting. Joseph Harriman, an ISC/E-7 in 1999, had a difficult time but survived and is grateful for the experience. Richard Harris, an EN2 in 1980, had a great time and met a lot of good friends.

These memories shared by the crew members of the USS Shreveport (LPD-12) highlight the camaraderie, challenges, and unforgettable experiences that defined their time aboard this storied vessel.

 

USS Shreveport LPD-12: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet

The USS Shreveport (LPD-12) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy's amphibious fleet. Commissioned in 1970, it was part of the Austin-class of amphibious transport docks. These ships were designed to transport and land Marines, their gear, and supplies using air cushion or conventional landing craft and amphibious vehicles. Over the years, Shreveport received several upgrades, like advanced radar and communication systems, better navigation tools, and improved defensive weaponry. These enhancements kept the ship ready for action and extended its service life, allowing it to meet new military needs and tech advancements.

The USS Shreveport was a versatile ship, playing a key role in the Navy's amphibious warfare strategy. It could handle a variety of missions, from humanitarian aid to full-scale amphibious assaults. Its well deck could accommodate landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) vehicles, and amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs). The flight deck supported helicopter operations, including the CH-46 Sea Knight and the CH-53 Sea Stallion. These features allowed Shreveport to quickly deploy Marines and their equipment, making it a flexible and responsive platform for many missions.

Throughout its service, the USS Shreveport made significant contributions to the fleet. It was part of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting the liberation of Kuwait. The ship also participated in humanitarian missions, like providing aid to Haiti after the devastating earthquake in 2010. These operations highlighted Shreveport's ability to project power, deliver aid, and support allies, proving its worth as a versatile and reliable asset in the Navy's amphibious fleet.

The legacy of the USS Shreveport is one of adaptability and enduring service. Over nearly four decades of active duty, it embodied the Navy's commitment to a strong and capable amphibious force. The upgrades it received ensured it remained a formidable platform, ready for modern naval warfare and humanitarian missions. Shreveport's service history is a testament to the evolution of the U.S. Navy's amphibious capabilities and its dedication to global maritime security and stability.

 

USS Shreveport LPD-12: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations

The USS Shreveport (LPD-12) has a rich history that highlights its versatility and importance in the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1970, this ship was built to transport and land Marines, their gear, and supplies using air cushion or conventional landing craft. Over the years, Shreveport took part in many deployments, including Mediterranean and Caribbean cruises, playing a key role in projecting American naval power and providing humanitarian aid. Its ability to operate in different environments made it a valuable asset in both peace and conflict.

When it comes to major conflicts, the USS Shreveport was actively involved in several significant operations. During the Gulf War in 1991, it was part of Operation Desert Storm, supporting amphibious operations and providing logistical support to coalition forces. Shreveport also played a crucial role in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia in 1992-1993, helping deliver humanitarian aid and supporting U.S. and United Nations forces in stabilizing the region. Additionally, the ship was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom in the early 2000s, proving its continued relevance in modern military operations.

The USS Shreveport's outstanding service has been recognized with numerous awards and commendations. It earned multiple Navy Unit Commendations and Meritorious Unit Commendations for its exceptional performance during various deployments and operations. The ship also received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and the Humanitarian Service Medal, reflecting its dual role in combat and humanitarian missions. These accolades are a testament to the ship's operational excellence and the dedication of its crew over the years.

Throughout its nearly four decades of service, the USS Shreveport (LPD-12) showed a remarkable ability to adapt to the changing demands of naval warfare and humanitarian assistance. Its deployments and participation in major conflicts highlight the ship's strategic importance, while its numerous awards and commendations underscore the high standards of performance and commitment exhibited by its crew. The legacy of the USS Shreveport is one of resilience, versatility, and unwavering service to the United States Navy and the nation.

 

USS Shreveport LPD-12 Ship Specifications

Specification	Details
Class	Austin Class Amphibious Transport Dock
Commissioned	December 12, 1970
Displacement	17,326 tons
Length	570 feet
Beam	84 feet
Draft	23 feet
Speed	21 knots
Complement	420