USS LCI(G)-516 landing craft

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aukepalmhof
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USS LCI(G)-516 landing craft

Post by aukepalmhof » Thu Jun 25, 2015 8:33 pm

70th Anniversary of Liberation
As any Islander knows, you can't wander far in Guernsey without coming across its war defences, which act as a stark reminder of the harsh attacks its occupants suffered during World War Two. The first raid, when the island was attacked by air, occurred on June 28, 1940, killing 33 islanders and injuring a further 67.
Thankfully, around 4,000 people - mainly children - had been evacuated in the months before the attack.
The German Occupation began two days later, on June 30, and lasted for almost five years later, when the island was finally liberated on May 9 1945.
This year, which is the 70th anniversary of Liberation, is set to be the biggest celebration in years with a parade including 135 pre-1946 European military vehicles and vintage cars, tractors and motorcycles. Other events including a trilogy of films about the occupation made in Guernsey will be screened at the Town Church.
And Dawn Gallienne, head of philatelic at Guernsey Post, believes it’s really important to commemorate the closure of one of the most difficult periods in the island’s recent history.

On the stamp for postage of a large letter is depict the USS landing craft USS LCI (G)-516.
Built by the New Jersey Shipbuilding Corp., Barber, N.J. for the USA Navy.
09 November 1943 laid down.
08 December 1943 launched as the USS LCI(L)-516
Displacement 246 ton light, 419 ton loaded. Dim. 158.5 x 23.3ft, with a maximum draught when loaded 5.11ft.
Powered by two sets of four GM diesel engines, 1,600 bhp, twin shafts, variable pitch propellers, speed 14 knots.
Endurance by a speed of 12 knots, 4,000 mile.
Armament: 5 – 20mm guns.
Cargo capacity 75 tons, troop capacity 188 men.
Crew 4 officers and 24 enlisted.
11 December 1943 completed. Built in a little more as one month.
During World War II assigned to the Europe-Africa-Middle East Theater.
Took part in the invasion of Normandy from 6 to 25 June 1944.This landing craft were assembled on the south coast of England in various ports.
Took part in the invasion Southern France from 15 August to 18 September 1944.
08 May 1945 took part in the invasion and liberation of Guernsey
15 July 1945 was she reclassified in a Landing Craft Infantry (Gunboat) LCI(G)-516.
1946 Struck from the Naval Register.
26 February 1947 transferred to the US Army.
Fate unknown.

Guernsey 2015 ? sg?, scott?

Source: http://www.navsource.org/archives/10/15/150516.htm Guernsey Post
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