About this Unit
USS Bulloch County (LST-509) was a tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944 during World War II. Originally designated LST-509, she participated in the Normandy invasion, landing troops and equipment on Omaha Beach under heavy enemy fire. After the war, she continued her service by supporting occupation forces in Europe. In 1955, the vessel was renamed USS Bulloch County (LST-509) and later served with the Military Sea Transportation Service before being decommissioned in 1958.
Historical Facts
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World War II Service: USS Bulloch County (LST-509) was originally commissioned as USS LST-509, a tank landing ship, and played a critical role in the Normandy landings (D-Day) on June 6, 1944, delivering tanks, vehicles, and troops to Omaha Beach under heavy fire.
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Renaming: The ship was re-designated USS Bulloch County (LST-509) on July 1, 1955, named after Bulloch County in Georgia, following Navy tradition of naming LSTs after US counties.
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Multiple Theaters: During World War II, LST-509 was not limited to the European Theater; after the war, she also served in the Pacific, supporting occupation forces in Japan.
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Korean War Service: Reactivated for the Korean War, USS Bulloch County transported equipment and personnel, participating in the UN effort during the conflict.
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Vietnam War Operations: The ship saw extensive service in the Vietnam War, where she delivered men and materials along the Vietnamese coast, supporting American and allied operations.
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Innovative Design: The LST-509 was part of the LST-491 class, known for its ability to deliver tanks directly onto unimproved beaches, a key innovation that contributed to Allied amphibious successes.
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Battle Star Recipient: For her service in World War II, USS Bulloch County (LST-509) earned one battle star, a testament to her significant contributions during major campaigns.
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Post-Navy Service: After being decommissioned and struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1969, the ship was sold for commercial service and later scrapped, ending a long and storied life.
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Survivor of Danger: During D-Day, LST-509 faced minefields, artillery, and air attacks, yet successfully landed her cargo and helped evacuate wounded soldiers, highlighting the vessel’s resilience and the crew’s bravery.
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Legacy: USS Bulloch County (LST-509) represents the vital, often unsung, role of tank landing ships in 20th-century amphibious warfare, with her story preserved in naval history and by veterans who served aboard her.
