About this Unit
USS Duval County (LST-758) was a tank landing ship of the LST-542 class, commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. She served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, participating in critical operations such as the assault and occupation of Okinawa in 1945. After the war, Duval County supported occupation duties in the Far East until she was decommissioned in 1946. Reactivated for service during the Korean War, the ship continued to serve with the Atlantic Fleet until her final decommissioning in 1969.
Historical Facts
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World War II Service: USS Duval County (LST-758) was commissioned in 1944 and actively participated in the Pacific Theater, notably in the invasion of Okinawa, one of the largest amphibious assaults in the war.
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Name Origin: The vessel was named after Duval County, Florida, following the tradition of naming LSTs after U.S. counties.
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Ship Class: LST-758 was part of the LST-542-class tank landing ships, designed to deliver tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without docks or piers.
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Pacific Operations: Aside from Okinawa, LST-758 operated throughout the Pacific, delivering essential supplies and reinforcements to various island campaigns.
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Post-War Occupation: After Japan’s surrender, the ship assisted in occupation duties in the Far East, transporting personnel and equipment to support stabilization efforts.
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Decommissioning and Recommissioning: LST-758 was decommissioned after WWII but was recommissioned for service during the Korean War, reflecting the ongoing need for amphibious capabilities.
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Korean War Service: The ship took part in Korean War operations, including transporting men and supplies along the Korean Peninsula, supporting United Nations forces.
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Official Naming: The ship was not officially named USS Duval County until July 1, 1955, years after her initial commissioning, reflecting a Navy policy of naming LSTs after counties in the 1950s.
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Multiple Battle Stars: For her service in WWII and Korea, LST-758 earned several battle stars, marking her participation in major combat operations.
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Final Fate: After being decommissioned for the final time in 1969, USS Duval County was struck from the Naval Vessel Register and sold for scrap, ending her long and storied career.
