USS Catskill MCS-1

• Unique Designation: USS Catskill (MCS-1) was the lead ship of the Catskill-class minelayer, and was later reclassified as a Mine Countermeasures Support Ship, giving her the unique hull number MCS-1. • World War II Origins: Laid down in July 1941 and launched in May 1942, she was originally designed as a Landing Ship, Vehicle (LSV-1), intended to support amphibious operations during World War II. • Multiple Reclassifications: Catskill underwent several reclassifications in her career: from a vehicle landing ship (LSV-1) to a minelayer (CM-6), and finally to a mine countermeasures support ship (MCS-1). • Pacific Theater Service: During World War II, Catskill participated in major Pacific campaigns, including the invasion of Leyte and Luzon in the Philippines. • Fast Transport Capabilities: As a converted LSV, she could carry and launch up to 18 LVT amphibious vehicles directly onto enemy beaches, a significant innovation for amphibious assaults. • Postwar Service and Decommissioning: After World War II, Catskill was placed in reserve, only to be recommissioned in 1967—over two decades later—for service as a mine countermeasures support ship during the Vietnam War era. • Vietnam War Role: In her later years, Catskill served as the flagship for Mine Squadron 3, supporting mine warfare operations in Southeast Asia. • Honors and Awards: For her World War II service, USS Catskill received two battle stars. • Long Service Life: The ship's career spanned nearly three decades, with service in both World War II and the Vietnam War, making her one of the few ships to serve in both conflicts. • Namesake: USS Catskill was named after the Catskill Mountains in New York, a tradition of naming ships after prominent American geographic features.