lst 983

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About lst 983

**Military Unit LST 983 History:** LST-983 was a tank landing ship (LST) of the LST-542 class built for the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, she played a critical role in the European Theater, participating in the Normandy landings (D-Day) in June 1944 by delivering troops, vehicles, and equipment directly onto the beaches. After the war, LST-983 continued to serve in occupation duties in Europe before being decommissioned in 1946. The vessel was eventually struck from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for civilian use, marking the end of her distinguished service.

Unit Members

Raeford Clark

U.S. Navy

lst 983View Profile

Richard Collins

U.S. Navy

lst 983View Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About lst 983

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Amphibious Beginnings: LST 983 was a tank landing ship (Landing Ship, Tank) constructed for the United States Navy during World War II, designed to deliver tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore. • Launched in 1944: LST 983 was laid down on January 22, 1944, by the Boston Navy Yard and launched on March 1, 1944, reflecting the rapid shipbuilding pace of wartime America. • Operational Theatre: The ship served in the European Theater, supporting critical Allied operations, including the Normandy landings in June 1944. • D-Day Participant: LST 983 is believed to have supported the D-Day invasion, bringing reinforcements and supplies to Omaha Beach, which was pivotal for the success of Operation Overlord. • Post-Normandy Service: After Normandy, LST 983 continued to ferry troops and equipment between England and France, helping sustain the Allied advance into occupied Europe. • Versatile Design: Like other LSTs, LST 983 could carry up to 20 tanks, 30 trucks, or 200 troops, making it a highly flexible asset for amphibious operations. • Unheralded Heroism: Crew members of LST 983, like many LST crews, often faced enemy fire and rough seas with little recognition, playing a crucial but underappreciated role in Allied victories. • Post-War Fate: After WWII, LST 983 was decommissioned in 1946 and later sold for commercial service, a common fate for many LSTs that survived the war. • Legacy in Naval Engineering: The LST 983 and her class inspired the design of modern amphibious warfare ships, influencing military logistics for decades. • Honors and Awards: LST 983 earned one battle star for her World War II service, marking her participation in significant combat operations.