USS Cabildo (LSD-16)

• Commissioning & Class: USS Cabildo (LSD-16) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship, commissioned on 16 March 1945 near the end of World War II. • Name Origin: The ship was named after The Cabildo, the historic city hall in New Orleans, Louisiana, where the Louisiana Purchase transfer ceremonies were held. • World War II Service: Although commissioned late in WWII, Cabildo participated in the occupation of Japan, transporting troops and equipment for postwar operations. • Korean War Operations: Cabildo played a key role in the Korean War, particularly in amphibious operations, including the famous Inchon landings in 1950. • Innovation in Amphibious Warfare: During her service, Cabildo helped pioneer the use of helicopters in amphibious operations, which would become standard in future military doctrine. • Atomic Testing Support: In 1952, Cabildo supported Operation Ivy, a series of atomic bomb tests in the Marshall Islands, serving as a support and transport vessel. • Vietnam War Deployments: The ship made multiple deployments to Vietnam, providing amphibious support, troop transport, and serving as a floating base for riverine operations. • Humanitarian Missions: Cabildo participated in disaster relief, including assisting the population of Guam after a devastating typhoon in 1962. • Decommissioning: After more than 25 years of service, the USS Cabildo was decommissioned on 31 March 1970, marking the end of her active duty. • Final Fate: In 1985, after years in reserve, the Cabildo was sunk as a target off the coast of California, concluding her long and varied career.