About this Unit
USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) was an Ashland-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in September 1943. Named after Carter Hall, the historic Virginia estate, the ship played a critical role in World War II, supporting amphibious assaults in the Pacific Theater, including operations at Leyte, Luzon, and Okinawa. After the war, Carter Hall participated in occupation duties in the Far East before being decommissioned in 1947. The ship was recommissioned during the Korean War era, serving in various capacities until her final decommissioning in 1969.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Carter Hall (LSD-3) was named after Carter Hall, the historic home of Lt. Col. Nathaniel Burwell in Virginia, continuing the Navy tradition of naming Dock Landing Ships after prominent American estates.
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World War II Service: Commissioned on 18 September 1943, USS Carter Hall played an active role in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including operations in New Guinea, the Philippines, and the Borneo campaign.
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Landing Craft Operations: As a Dock Landing Ship, Carter Hall was specifically designed to transport, launch, and repair landing craft, playing a central logistical role in amphibious assaults.
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New Guinea Landings: Carter Hall supported the landings at Aitape and Hollandia in New Guinea, providing crucial logistical support for the Allied advance through the Southwest Pacific.
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Recognition: The ship received six battle stars for her distinguished service during World War II.
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Post-War Occupation Duties: After Japan’s surrender, Carter Hall assisted with occupation duties in the Far East, including operations in Okinawa and China.
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Decommissioning and Reactivation: The ship was decommissioned in 1947 but was reactivated in 1950 in response to the Korean War, reflecting the Navy's need for amphibious support during times of conflict.
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Korean War Service: During the Korean War, Carter Hall was active in training exercises and fleet maneuvers, supporting the U.S. Marine Corps and Army units.
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Final Decommissioning: Carter Hall was decommissioned for the last time on 22 October 1955 and was struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1961.
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Legacy: The name Carter Hall lives on in the U.S. Navy, with the commissioning of a new Dock Landing Ship, USS Carter Hall (LSD-50), in 1995, honoring the legacy of her WWII predecessor.
