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History of USS Catamount (LSD-17)

USS Catamount (LSD-17) was a Casa Grande-class dock landing ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Initially serving in the final stages of World War II, she participated in occupation duties in the Far East. During the Korean War, Catamount played a crucial role in amphibious operations, including the Inchon landings, and supported minesweeping activities. The ship continued service through the Vietnam War, providing logistical support and transporting troops and equipment before being decommissioned in 1970.

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ABOUT USS Catamount (LSD-17)

  • Commissioned in WWII: USS Catamount (LSD-17) was commissioned on 9 April 1945, just as World War II was drawing to a close, and quickly served in the Pacific theater.
  • First of Her Kind: She was the lead ship of the Catamount-class dock landing ships, setting standards for future LSD designs.
  • Operation Crossroads: In 1946, Catamount participated in “Operation Crossroads,” the atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll, supporting the historic nuclear experiments.
  • Korean War Service: Catamount was among the first dock landing ships to see action in the Korean War, transporting troops, vehicles, and equipment for amphibious assaults.
  • Inchon Landing: She played a crucial role in the famous Inchon Landing in September 1950, one of the most daring amphibious operations in history.
  • Arctic Operations: In the early 1950s, Catamount participated in Arctic supply missions, supporting the construction and resupply of the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line.
  • Minesweeping Support: She was among the first LSDs to be outfitted to carry and support minesweeping boats during Korean War operations.
  • Vietnam War Service: Catamount served multiple tours in the Vietnam War, supporting amphibious landings, troop movements, and logistics.
  • Humanitarian Missions: The ship also participated in humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, including assistance to Japanese communities after typhoons.
  • Decommissioning and Fate: After a distinguished 23-year career, USS Catamount was decommissioned on 31 March 1970 and eventually scrapped in 1974.

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