Definition USS LST-657 was a tank landing ship (LST) of the United States Navy during the mid-20th century, specifically of the LST-542 class.
Overview LST-657 was laid down during World War II as part of the large-scale production of Landing Ship, Tank (LST) vessels designed to support amphibious operations. These ships were crucial for transporting troops, vehicles, and supplies directly onto unimproved shores. The vessel was used primarily in the Pacific Theater, though specific deployment records and operational history for LST-657 are limited in publicly available sources.
After World War II, many LSTs were decommissioned, transferred to allied nations, or repurposed. The ultimate fate of LST-657, including details of decommissioning, transfer, or scrapping, is not fully documented in authoritative naval records accessible to the public. Accurate information is not confirmed.
Etymology/Origin The name follows standard U.S. Navy hull classification nomenclature: "USS" stands for "United States Ship," "LST" denotes "Landing Ship, Tank," and "657" is the unique hull number within the LST series. The ship was constructed as part of a wartime emergency shipbuilding program, with over 1,000 LSTs produced between 1942 and 1945.
Characteristics As a member of the LST-542 class, LST-657 likely had the following general characteristics:
- Length: Approximately 328 feet (100 meters)
- Beam: 50 feet (15.2 meters)
- Draft: Around 8 feet (2.4 meters) when light, over 14 feet (4.3 meters) when fully loaded
- Propulsion: Typically powered by two diesel engines driving twin screws
- Speed: Roughly 10–12 knots
- Capacity: Designed to carry multiple tanks, trucks, and hundreds of troops
- Armament: Light anti-aircraft weaponry, commonly including 40 mm and 20 mm guns
These vessels featured a large bow door and ramp for unloading vehicles directly onto beaches.
Related Topics
- LST-class landing ships
- Amphibious warfare vessels
- United States Navy in World War II
- Pacific Theater operations
- Naval logistics and support vessels
While LST-657 was one of many ships in its class, it does not appear to have been distinguished by notable individual service records in widely accessible historical documentation.