LST-306

• USS LST-306 was a United States Navy tank landing ship (LST) built during World War II, part of the LST-1 class. • She was laid down on 15 September 1942 at the Boston Navy Yard and launched on 23 November 1942. • LST-306 was commissioned on 7 February 1943, with Lieutenant J. W. Whitaker, USNR, in command. • Her primary mission was to transport tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without docks or piers, a critical capability for amphibious invasions. • LST-306 participated in the Allied invasion of Sicily (Operation Husky) in July 1943, landing troops and equipment under enemy fire. • The ship also took part in the Salerno landings (Operation Avalanche) in September 1943, supporting the Allied push into Italy. • During the Normandy invasion (D-Day), LST-306 played a significant role by landing troops and equipment on the beaches of France in June 1944. • Throughout her service, LST-306 was frequently targeted by enemy aircraft and U-boats but survived the war without being sunk or heavily damaged. • After World War II, LST-306 performed occupation duties in the Far East and served in China until mid-March 1946. • The ship was decommissioned on 1 July 1946, struck from the Navy list on 28 August 1946, and eventually sold for scrap, ending her notable career.