USS Summit County (LST-1146)

• Commissioned in World War II’s Aftermath: USS Summit County (LST-1146) was laid down on 3 February 1945 and commissioned on 19 May 1945, just after the end of major combat operations in Europe and shortly before Japan's surrender in World War II. • Part of the LST-542-class: The ship was one of the LST-542-class tank landing ships, designed to transport tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without docks or piers. • Postwar Service: Although too late for major WWII battles, Summit County played a crucial role in postwar occupation duties in the Far East, helping stabilize the Pacific region. • Korean War Operations: The ship saw extensive service in the Korean War, transporting men and materiel to and from the Korean Peninsula, and supporting amphibious operations. • Arctic Resupply Missions: During the 1950s, Summit County participated in resupply and support missions to remote Arctic bases, showcasing the versatility of LSTs in extreme environments. • Renamed for a County: On 1 July 1955, the ship was named USS Summit County, after counties in Colorado, Ohio, and Utah, following the Navy’s policy of naming LSTs after U.S. counties. • Service in Vietnam: The ship was active during the Vietnam War, supporting U.S. and allied operations with logistics, transport, and supply missions along the Vietnamese coast and rivers. • Transferred to the Royal Malaysian Navy: In 1971, Summit County was transferred to Malaysia, where she served as KD Raja Jarom (A-1502), extending her operational life in Southeast Asia. • Long Service Life: The ship served over 25 years in the U.S. Navy and continued for decades more in Malaysia, exemplifying the durability and utility of LSTs. • Decorated for Service: USS Summit County earned multiple campaign and service medals for her participation in Korean and Vietnam War operations, honoring her contribution to U.S. military efforts.