About this Unit
USS Schenectady (LST-1185) was a Newport-class tank landing ship commissioned into the United States Navy on 13 June 1970. Designed to transport and deploy tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore, she supported amphibious operations throughout her service. Schenectady participated in numerous exercises and deployments in the Pacific, contributing to U.S. naval readiness during the Cold War era. She was decommissioned on 15 December 1993 and later sunk as a target during a fleet training exercise in 2001.
Historical Facts
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USS Schenectady (LST-1185) was a Newport-class tank landing ship:
She was one of only 20 ships in her class, designed to provide greater speed and ocean-going capabilities than previous LSTs.
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Commissioned in 1970:
USS Schenectady was commissioned into the US Navy on 13 June 1970, serving for over two decades.
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Named after Schenectady, New York:
The ship was named to honor the city of Schenectady, reflecting the tradition of naming LSTs after US counties or cities.
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Distinctive bow ramp design:
Unlike earlier LSTs, the Newport class vessels, including Schenectady, used a 112-foot aluminum bow ramp supported by two derrick arms, allowing for faster offloading.
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Vietnam War service:
USS Schenectady participated in Vietnam War operations, transporting Marines, vehicles, and supplies to support US military activities.
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Pacific Fleet assignments:
The ship was primarily assigned to the Pacific Fleet, operating out of San Diego and Pearl Harbor during her career.
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Humanitarian missions:
Schenectady was involved in several humanitarian operations, including disaster relief and evacuation missions in the Pacific region.
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Decommissioned in 1993:
After 23 years of service, Schenectady was decommissioned on 15 December 1993 as the Navy reduced its amphibious force.
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Spectacular sinking during target practice:
On 19 November 1995, Schenectady was sunk as a target during a training exercise, breaking in two and sinking in less than a minute—a dramatic and rare event for a ship of her size.
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Legacy and memorabilia:
Artifacts and memorabilia from USS Schenectady are preserved by veterans' organizations and museums, remembering her service and the crews who served aboard.
