About this Unit
USS Page County (LST-1076) was a tank landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in May 1945, near the end of World War II. Although she arrived too late to participate in wartime combat, she served in occupation duties in the Far East before being decommissioned in 1946. The ship was recommissioned in 1960, taking part in amphibious operations and logistical support missions during the Vietnam War. After her active service, USS Page County was decommissioned in 1971 and later transferred to the Hellenic Navy of Greece.
Historical Facts
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Namesake: USS Page County (LST-1076) was named after Page County, located in both Iowa and Virginia, following the US Navy tradition of naming LSTs (Landing Ship, Tank) after US counties.
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Construction: The keel was laid down on March 13, 1945, at Bethlehem-Hingham Shipyard in Hingham, Massachusetts.
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World War II Service: Commissioned on May 22, 1945, LST-1076 was completed too late to see combat in World War II but participated in post-war occupation duties in the Far East.
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Decommissioning and Reserve: The ship was first decommissioned on July 18, 1946, and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet at San Diego, reflecting the typical post-war drawdown.
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Korean War Recommission: Reactivated during the Korean War, LST-1076 was recommissioned on September 27, 1950, and served by transporting troops, vehicles, and supplies.
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Renaming: On July 1, 1955, she was officially named USS Page County, making her one of the later LSTs to be given a county name.
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Vietnam War Service: USS Page County took part in numerous logistical operations during the Vietnam War, supporting amphibious and riverine operations, and earning campaign stars for her service.
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Awards: The ship received multiple awards, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal (with campaign stars), and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
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Decommissioning and Transfer: USS Page County was decommissioned on August 1, 1971, and struck from the Navy list on November 1, 1976. She was subsequently transferred to the Hellenic Navy (Greece), where she served as HS Lesvos (L-172).
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Legacy: LST-1076/USS Page County exemplified the versatility and longevity of the LST-542-class ships, serving in three major conflicts and continuing her career overseas, reflecting the global impact of American shipbuilding.
