The USS Westchester County (LST-1167) was a Terrebonne Parish-class tank landing ship, commissioned in 1954 after being laid down in 1952 and launched in 1953. In the 1950s, she participated in amphibious warfare exercises, transporting Marines and cargo, and completed a Mediterranean deployment with the 6th Fleet. Throughout the 1960s, Westchester County engaged in joint amphibious operations with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marines, playing a crucial role during the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1972. She carried troops, equipment, and supplies to key locations such as Qui Nhơn, Da Nang, and Vũng Tàu, supporting significant operations like "Market Time" and "Lamson III." In 1966, the ship survived a Viet Cong limpet mine attack, underwent repairs, and continued to support U.S. forces, including during troop withdrawals. After her decommissioning in 1973, she was transferred to the Turkish Navy. The USS Westchester County earned three Navy Unit Commendations, two Meritorious Unit Commendations, and 14 campaign stars for her service in Vietnam. Like many ships of her time, the USS Westchester County contained asbestos products, potentially exposing her personnel to health risks. Veterans who served aboard may be eligible for compensation through asbestos trust funds and the VA.
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