USS Hickman County (LST-825)

• World War II Service: USS Hickman County (LST-825) was commissioned on November 11, 1944, and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, primarily supporting operations in the Philippines and Okinawa. • Namesake: The ship was named after counties of the same name in Kentucky and Tennessee, following the tradition of naming LSTs (Landing Ship, Tank) after U.S. counties. • Landing Operations: LST-825 played a vital role in landing troops, vehicles, and supplies directly onto enemy beaches, a hallmark of amphibious warfare that was crucial to Allied victories in the Pacific. • Korean War Reactivation: After decommissioning post-WWII, the ship was recommissioned for service in the Korean War, transporting troops and equipment to support United Nations operations. • Vietnam War Service: The vessel also saw action during the Vietnam War, delivering cargo and participating in riverine and coastal operations, showcasing its versatility across three major conflicts. • Renaming: In July 1955, LST-825 was officially renamed USS Hickman County, becoming one of the first LSTs to receive a county name instead of a hull number. • Operation Passage to Freedom: The ship helped evacuate thousands of Vietnamese civilians, soldiers, and non-communist personnel from North to South Vietnam in 1954, during the operation following the Geneva Accords. • Awards: USS Hickman County earned one battle star for World War II service, two for Korean War service, and four campaign stars for Vietnam War operations, reflecting its extensive and decorated career. • Decommissioning and Fate: The ship was finally decommissioned on March 24, 1971, and was later sunk as a target off the coast of California in 1976, serving one last purpose in naval training. • Legacy: USS Hickman County’s longevity and service in three wars made it a symbol of the flexibility and durability of the LST class, and its crew members have held reunions to honor their shared history and the ship’s legacy.