About this Unit
USS Madera County (LST-905) was a tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. She served in the closing months of World War II, supporting occupation duties in the Far East and China. The ship was later reactivated for service during the Vietnam War, where she transported troops and equipment along the coast and rivers of South Vietnam. After distinguished service in two major conflicts, USS Madera County was decommissioned in 1970 and subsequently struck from the Naval Vessel Register.
Historical Facts
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
