USS Charleston (LKA-113)

• Commissioning: USS Charleston (LKA-113) was commissioned on December 14, 1968, as the lead ship of her class of amphibious cargo ships designed to support the transport and landing of Marines, vehicles, and supplies. • Vietnam War Service: Charleston participated in Vietnam War operations, transporting troops, vehicles, and equipment to support U.S. military efforts in Southeast Asia. • Class Leader: She was the first of five Charleston-class amphibious cargo ships, specifically designed to replace the aging attack cargo ships (AKAs) from World War II. • Humanitarian Missions: Throughout her career, Charleston was involved in several humanitarian and disaster relief operations, including evacuating refugees and delivering aid. • Lebanon Peacekeeping: In the early 1980s, Charleston supported U.S. Marines during peacekeeping operations in Lebanon, highlighting her versatility in rapid deployment. • Operation Desert Storm: Charleston took part in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, transporting Marines and equipment to the Persian Gulf in support of coalition forces during the Gulf War. • Arctic Circle Crossing: The ship and its crew crossed the Arctic Circle during exercises, earning members the “Blue Nose” distinction, a traditional naval honor. • Decommissioning: After nearly 26 years of service, USS Charleston was decommissioned on April 27, 1992, marking the end of her operational career. • Namesake Legacy: She was the fifth U.S. Navy ship named after the city of Charleston, South Carolina, a tradition reflecting the city’s naval heritage. • Final Fate: After decommissioning, USS Charleston was laid up in the National Defense Reserve Fleet and eventually sold for scrapping in 2012, concluding her story.