USS Schenectady (LST-1185)

• 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. • Commissioned in 1970: USS Schenectady was commissioned into the US Navy on 13 June 1970, serving for over two decades. • 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. • 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. • Vietnam War service: USS Schenectady participated in Vietnam War operations, transporting Marines, vehicles, and supplies to support US military activities. • Pacific Fleet assignments: The ship was primarily assigned to the Pacific Fleet, operating out of San Diego and Pearl Harbor during her career. • Humanitarian missions: Schenectady was involved in several humanitarian operations, including disaster relief and evacuation missions in the Pacific region. • Decommissioned in 1993: After 23 years of service, Schenectady was decommissioned on 15 December 1993 as the Navy reduced its amphibious force. • 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. • 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.