USS Madera County LST 905

• World War II Service: USS Madera County (LST-905) was commissioned in December 1944 and served in the Pacific Theater during the final months of World War II, supporting operations by transporting troops, vehicles, and supplies. • Namesake: The ship was named for Madera County, California, following the U.S. Navy tradition of naming LSTs (Landing Ship, Tank) after U.S. counties. • Okinawa Campaign: LST-905 participated in the Okinawa campaign, one of the largest amphibious assaults in history, delivering essential equipment and reinforcements to the embattled island. • Post-War Occupation Duties: After Japan’s surrender, USS Madera County supported occupation forces in the Far East, transporting occupation troops and supplies to Japan and Korea. • Deactivation and Recommission: The ship was decommissioned in 1946 but was recommissioned in 1963 for service during the Vietnam War, reflecting the Navy’s need for versatile amphibious ships. • Vietnam War Service: During the Vietnam War, USS Madera County played a critical role in river and coastal operations, supplying bases and participating in amphibious assaults and troop movements. • Operation Market Time: The ship was involved in Operation Market Time, a naval blockade designed to stop the flow of supplies to the Viet Cong by sea. • Decorations: USS Madera County earned several awards, including four battle stars for World War II service and three campaign stars for Vietnam War service, highlighting her active combat and support roles. • Unique Ship Design: As an LST-542-class ship, she featured a large bow door and ramp, allowing tanks and vehicles to drive directly onto shore, revolutionizing amphibious warfare logistics. • Final Fate: After her Vietnam service, the ship was decommissioned again in 1969 and struck from the Navy list in 1975, ending a service career that spanned two major conflicts and over two decades.