About this Unit
USS Colonial (LSD-18) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945, near the end of World War II. Although she missed combat in World War II, USS Colonial played a significant role during the Korean War, supporting amphibious operations and transporting troops, vehicles, and equipment. She continued her service through the 1950s and 1960s, including deployments during the Vietnam War, where she assisted in landing operations and logistical support. Decommissioned in 1970, USS Colonial earned multiple battle stars for her service and contributions to U.S. naval operations.
Historical Facts
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USS Colonial (LSD-18) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship, commissioned by the United States Navy during World War II, though she was launched too late to see combat in that conflict.
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The ship was named after Colonial Beach, Virginia, continuing the Navy tradition of naming landing ships after American counties or communities.
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USS Colonial was launched on 28 May 1945 by Newport News Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company and officially commissioned into service on 15 February 1946.
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She played an important role during the Korean War, participating in the Inchon amphibious landings in September 1950, a pivotal operation that turned the tide in favor of United Nations forces.
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The ship was crucial in supporting the evacuation of Hungnam in December 1950, helping rescue thousands of UN troops and civilians from advancing Chinese forces.
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USS Colonial was involved in the testing and deployment of early U.S. Navy helicopters for amphibious assault operations, thus contributing to the development of modern amphibious warfare tactics.
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During the Vietnam War, Colonial conducted multiple deployments, serving as a mobile base for riverine and amphibious operations, and providing support for the famous “Brown Water Navy”.
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In 1967, while off the coast of Vietnam, USS Colonial rescued survivors of the SS Alva Cape, a merchant ship that had struck a mine, demonstrating her crew's bravery and humanitarian commitment.
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The ship was decommissioned on 15 March 1970 after nearly 25 years of service, and subsequently sold for scrap in 1977.
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USS Colonial earned eight battle stars for her service during the Korean War, a testament to her significant role in several critical military operations.
