LST (491) - Naval Cruise Book

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THE CRI-ZW FORMS. . . OUR SHIP. . . THE SHAKI-IDOWN. . . CONTENTS EASTWARD HO! DESTINATION U. K.. . OPERATION OVPIRLlJRD. . MEUITERRANEAN ADVENTURE .. GOING HOME. . . ON OUR WAY AGAIN. . . ORINAWA . . THE IMPERIAL EMPIRE DECOMMISSIONED ..

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THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON, D. C. To you who answered the call of your country and ser-oed in its Armed Forces to bring about the total defeat of the enemy, I extend thenheart- felt thanks of a grateful Nation. As one of the Nation's finest, you undertook the most severe task one can be called upon to perform. Be- cause you demonstrated the fortitude, resource- fulness and calm judgment necessary to carry out that task, we now look to you for leadership and example in further exalting our country in peace. HARRY S. TRUMAN

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INTRODUCTIGN , The strategical and combat requirements of World War II resulted in the most novel departures in the de- sign of naval vessels that had occurred in the past half century. The LST probably remains the most special- ized type developed. These mass-produced shoe boxes with propellers, specifically designed to land vehicles and accompanying troops on hostile shores, became the work horses of the Navy. With modifications, they served as train ferries, horse ferries, casualty evacuation ships, tenders, and often bulk cargo carriers. To the professional mariner, the LST, with its char- acteristics of: no draft and all freeboard, contrary and always surprising maneuverability, buggywhip flexibility, and its ultimate mission of being driven upon the shore, was at the same time ridiculous and alarming. Their officers and crews, however, were almost totally non-pro- fessional. These men, few of whom had ever seen blue water, much less sailed it, solved her idiosyncrasies and made her perform above and beyond what had been in- tended or expected. The U.S.S. LST 491, with two and one half years war service, including assault landings at Normandy and southern France, combat landing at Okinawa, finally terminating with the occupation of Japan, can match her performance and experiences with the best in this highly respected branch of the amphibians. To her officers and crew, my shipmates and friends, I extend the fondest affection of an old sea dog. L ' L. F. TEUSCHER Captain United States Navy l 2 if 9' , if