Historic LST 325 docks in Chester

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[ The City of Chester was privileged to host the historic USS?LST 325 ship and it's crew on September 16, 17, & 18. The USS LST-325 was docked at the Chester riverfront near the boat ramps and was available for touring from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Numerous schools toured the ship on Friday.

Opening Ceremonies were held on Friday and included a presentation of the colors by the Chester VFW and American Legion, words from local leaders, and music by the Chester High School Band.

A Historical Military Vehicle Display and World War II Living Camp was also held along the banks of the Mississippi River during the weekend.

USS?LST 325 Captain Robert Jornlin was the guest speaker at the Regional Leaders Luncheon on Friday. After the luncheon Regional Leaders were granted a tour of the ship.

The LSTs (Landing Ship Tanks) were created during World War II to transport large quantities of vehicles, supplies and troops directly onto any shore. History reports that the concept for the design and building of the LST was inspired by Sir Winston Churchill. Early in World War II, Churchill dreamed of a ship versatile enough to carry troops, tanks, fuel and equipment across large bodies of water and deposit the cargo onto enemy beaches. The LST became known as "the ship that won the war".

The LST 325 now participates in annual River Tours to various locations and Ports of Call and has been the focal point of several conventions and events, including the 2009 Military Vehicle Preservation Association's National Convention. At approximately 330' long with a 50' beam and a 3,942 ton loaded displacement, she is quite an impressive piece of living history.