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USS LST 907 LOG OF ACTIVITY
(and some personal experiences)
April 30, 1944 – July 18, 1945
As recorded by Shirl T. Reinhart SC 2/C


This is a log of activity from the USS LST 907 that was commissioned on April 30, 1944 at Hingham Shipyard outside of Boston, Massachusetts. After a “shakedown cruise” on Chesapeake Bay, we moved to Norfolk, Virginia where loading operations began. This included an LCT and crew, a small Crash Boat and crew, and 100 men from a repair unit. Our decks were loaded with equipment consisting of derricks, tractors, machinery/ tools, and cement. We have heard that we will drop all of this at our first port which is expected to be Oran, North Africa. Everyone is anxiously awaiting departure.

Ports visited

June 2, 1944 – Friday
Started to rendezvous with other LSTs and DEs including our sister ship, the 906. At about 1600 hours, we sighted the convoy we were to join moving slowly so that all ships could get into position. We are in the 2nd column, last row, and equalized our speed to the convoy pace. The convoy is made up of 104 ships – mostly cargo and tanker types – plus several Escort Ships. At 2000 hours, we had GQ and were at our stations for about 30 minutes. Hot during the day but cooled off in the evening. back to top

June 3, 1944 – Saturday
Had GQ at dawn for about half an hour. This will be routine at sunrise and sunset as they are the most likely times for submarines to attack. Water was a little rough today. Another warm day but, again, cooled off in the evening. back to top

June 6, 1944 – Tuesday
Received word of the invasion at Normandy. All here are very happy to hear that things are happening and appear to be in our favor. back to top

June 12, 1944 – Monday
Nothing much new. The daily reports we received about the invasion sound very optimistic. Weather is excellent and water is calm. We are approximately 200 miles from the Azores and 700 miles from the Rock of Gibraltar. Had firing practices to limber up the guns. back to top

June 12-18, 1944 – Monday-Saturday
Nothing much new during this period. We had rough water for a couple of days which cause some problems in the galley. Don Purtill got burned and banged up a bit but recovered okay. Saw land for the first time. We saw the tip of North Africa and the coast of Spain. The sunrise over the mountains in Spain was spectacular. At 1030 hours, we could see the Rock of Gibraltar but it was very hazy. An hour beyond the Rock, we lost sight of land. back to top

June 19, 1944 – Monday
Sighted land again today through the long arm. Can see mountainous areas of North Africa. Since we entered the Mediterranean, the water has calm and weather ideal. Have had several warnings of air attacks, but nothing has happened. Still having routine GQs. back to top

June 22, 1944 – Thursday
Reached our destination, and everyone is so happy to see land again. Anchored in a bay outside of Bizerte in AM. Pulled into docks about 4 miles from Bizerte at an Amphibious Base, formerly a French Air Force Base – Karouba. Tied up and immediately started to unload. Italian prisoners are doing all the work. Sold my watch to one of them for $20. Received mail as soon as we arrived. We saw the first horrible sights of war as we pulled into the harbor. Two LSTs, the 414 and 387, were destroyed plus several other ships. Weather is very warm, but nights get cool. back to top

June 23, 1944 – Friday
This is payday. Got paid in gold seal dollars which we’ll be using from now on. All passengers left the ship. The Crash Boat was unloaded and most of the tank deck is cleared away. We went swimming this evening and enjoyed it.
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June 24, 1944 – Saturday
Had my first liberty in Africa. We left the base at 1400 and hitched a ride into Ferryville, a small town about 15 miles from Karouba. We walked around the town and were amazed with the dirt and filth in which these people live. Saw many French and Italian refugees. Had some French vermouth that we had trouble drinking because of the silt/dirt in it. We went on to Bizerte, and the devastation got worse. There wasn’t a whole building standing in the entire city. People are living in huge wine casks and anywhere else they can find including the sidewalk. The Arabs are starting to return to the city and are trying to live in the Casbah. An interesting and educational day – one that I’ll never forget. back to top

June 25, 1944 – Sunday
Pulled out and anchored in the bay. Launched the LCT and cleared the deck. Seabees came aboard and put the pontoons on. back to top

June 28, 1944 – Wednesday
Took the test for 2C 3/C and passed it. If Captain approves, it will be effective July 1, 1944. Started loading again today. back to top

June 29, 1944 – Thursday
Loading continued. 125 soldiers came aboard. Tank deck is full of trucks, ducks, jeeps. We also have 40 Seabees aboard. Left Karouba this PM for Naples (we think). back to top

June 30, 1944 – Friday
Off the coast of Sicily. We can see mountains. Water was rough early but calmed down later in the day. We are in a group of six ships, all towing LCTs.
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July 1, 1944 – Saturday
Another day, another country, and advancement in rate, SC 3/C (official). Arrived in Salerno, Italy and anchored in a bay at about 2030 hours. Can’t make out anything but mountains. Seventeen members of the crew received rate advancement and took the Petty Officer oath in the PM.
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July 2, 1944 – Sunday
Pulled into the port of Salerno, then left there for Naples. Saw the Isle of Capri early this evening and then saw Mt. Vesuvius. Went by Naples to Nasida, a port about 10 miles north of Naples where we docked. back to top

July 3, 1944 – Monday
Left Nasida with about 400 Italian troops and the ship loaded with trucks. Very rough water during this trip. Had GQ tonight but no action. Got soaked from spray over the bow. back to top

July 4, 1944 – Tuesday
Routine GQs. Pulled into the port of Civitavecchia about 35 miles north of Rome. The harbor is full of sunken ships, and the city is totally destroyed. Unloaded troops and equipment. Glad to get rid of that dirty bunch. Had a holiday dinner – roast turkey and all the trimmings which everyone enjoyed. Had GQs at suppertime but was a false alarm – mistaken identity of one of our planes. back to top

July 5, 1944 – Wednesday
The last 24 hours have been busy. We had five air raid alarms starting at 0100 continuing until 1200. No sightings of aircraft but looks like we’re getting closer to the action. Took on 300 American troops and are loaded to capacity with trucks, jeeps, etc. Cooking for this number is a real chore. Left Civitavecchia on route to Corsica. Damaged a screw as we left. back to top

July 6, 1944 – Thursday
Tied up at an Army base in Corsica. The nearest town is in the mountains called Porto Vecchio. Unloaded all troops and equipment which took most of the day. It appears we will act as a Ferry Command between there and ports in Italy. They started to work on the damaged screw. back to top

July 7, 1944 – Friday
Remained in port as they continue to work on the screw. Seabees are trying their best but are limited because the right tools are not available. The rest of the Flotilla left today to pick up another load of troops and equipment.
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July 8, 1944 – Saturday
Nothing new. They’re still working on the screw and making some progress, I guess. I was sick today, and had a temp of 102. The doctor from the 1011 gave me medication that helped enough to allow me to do some exploring in the area. back to top

July 11, 1944 – Tuesday
Pulled out of Corsica with only one screw. There are 350 French and American troops aboard who are just back from the front. back to top

July 12, 1944 – Wednesday
Arrived in Civitavecchia but didn’t stay long. back to top

July 13, 1944 – Thursday
Pulled into Pozzuoli and unloaded. Expect to stay here until a dry dock spot is open for us. back to top

July 14, 1944 – Friday
Went on liberty in Naples with Lemon and Zimmerman. Walked around the city, picked up a few souvenirs, and found a Navy Beer Garden where enjoyed a couple very welcome beers. If we’re around here very long, their business will pick up. back to top

July 15, 1944 – Saturday
Pulled into dry dock (Naples, I assume). It is a very old-fashioned dry dock similar to our docks. It will take the rest of the day to drain the water and no telling how long to fix the screw. Received mail today. back to top

July 17, 1944 – Monday
Pulled out of dry dock into the Bay of Naples. The screw is on but shafts are not fixed yet. Italian workmen are working on the job with antiquated tools. They are very slow, backward people compared to our standards. back to top

July 18-19, 1944 – Tuesday and Wednesday
Same old routine. Not much new. Went on liberty – walked around the city and went to the Beer Garden. We are laying next to the heavy cruiser, Augusta, which is the flagship for the task force that is now assembling here.

July 20, 1944 – Thursday
Left Naples and pulled into Nasida where we loaded 500 Italian troops and their equipment. Heading for Civitavecchia. When we arrived at the “demolished” city, we unloaded, then reloaded with American troops and equipment and got underway for Corsica. back to top

July 22, 1944 – Saturday
Arrived in Porto Vecchio, Corsica where we unloaded. We then took 50 British troops aboard and left for Naples. This ferry business is monotonous but certainly better than combat. back to top

July 23, 1944 – Sunday
Pulled into Nasida and anchored. back to top

July 24-25, 1944 – Monday and Tuesday
Nasida to Pozzuoli where we unloaded the British. Pontoons were installed again. Went swimming, received mail. Went out and anchored on the other side of Vesuvius near Pompeii. back to top


August 5, 1944 – Saturday
For the past 12 days, we have done nothing – anchor here, tie up there, etc., etc., very monotonous. Today I saw the LST 285 and, knowing Jerry Butlers from home (Elmira, NY) was aboard, I had a signalman get a message to him. He came over to the ship in the PM, but couldn’t stay very long. It was sure good to see someone from home. Hope we’ll have a chance to see each other again. back to top

August 6, 1944 – Sunday
Pulled into Nasida and loaded 250 troops. I think we’re going on maneuvers. We got underway at midnight, and are with a group of fleet ships and landing craft. At 0400, we were rammed by the LST 988 which took off our stern anchor. There were a few anxious moments, but everything turned out okay. Other than that, there’s nothing new. back to top

August 11, 1944 – Friday
Over the past several days, it has been very routine. We’ve moved about, here and there. Went on liberty in Naples with Zimmerman and picked up more cameos.

The Bay of Naples is starting to fill up with every kind of ship imaginable, including those from Allied countries. There’s a battleship out there too, but do not know which one. It’s an impressive sight – so many ships you can hardly see the water. Tension is starting to build up as it’s evident that the invasion is not far off.

Saw Jerry Butlers again. He has seen Dick Seems, also from Elmira.

We have 400 American troops aboard; cooking for them is really a chore. We had mail today which will probably be our last until after the invasion.
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August 13, 1944 – Sunday
Received official news of the invasion of Southern France – D-Day, August 15, 1944. Hour 0800.

During the day, Army personnel were given instructions regarding their duties when we land on the beach.

This evening Ships Company assembled, and the Captain informed us of the details concerning the invasion and our duties upon reaching the assault area. Protective gas equipment was issued, and we are all equipped well for whatever might happen.

Pulled out of the Bay of Naples. Next stop – the beaches of Southern France.
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August 15, 1944 – D-Day – Tuesday
At 0500, we went to GQs. It wasn’t quite light yet, but we could see outlines of battleships, cruisers, destroyers, and the water was covered with various sizes of landing craft. We approached the transport area at 0600, at which time the salvos from the larger ships started. This continued for about an hour after which rockets started to be fired. We could only see the flash of the discharge and the sound of them hitting the beach. This continues until about 0750. At 0800, we saw the first wave of small boats start for the beach and, from then on, an never-ending stream of landing craft headed toward the beach. During the time, we were too far out from the beach to see what was happening. Later the planes started to come over and that continued for some time. There were so many it would have been difficult to count even the squadrons.

The day dragged on until 1430. We received orders to proceed to Green Beach to unload. It was then we learned that the 13th wave had gone in and met with gunfire. Prior to that, there was little resistance except for the 6th wave which met with machine gun fire.

At 1450, we hit Green Beach and started to unload. Just as the first truck went off, we heard gunfire and saw shells landing nearby on the beach. It was a German 88 from the hills beyond the beach. Several shots were close and several soldiers on the beach were wounded by shrapnel which we heard hitting the bow of the ship.

After the gunfire stopped, we continued to unload and, about an hour after we hit the beach, we started to pull off only to find out we were stuck. The stern anchor wouldn’t pull us off, so they got a bulldozer to push us off.

We then headed for Yellow Beach to drop the pontoons. We had heard numerous unfavorable reports about this location and didn’t know what to expect. At about sunset, the Seabees dropped the pontoons and we towed them to the beach. We saw hundreds of German prisoners lined up on the beach – what a welcome sight!! At 2200, we pulled off Yellow Beach and, as we did, we saw 20 MM tracers. A JU88 was spotted, and we got orders to commence firing. He was out of the range of our 20 MM, but it was still a thrill to fire at a Jerry.

General Quarters were secured at 0100 (8/16/44). It was an exciting day, one I hope we don’t have to experience again. Everyone sacked out – clothes and all.
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August 21, 1944 – Monday
Since D-Day, nothing very exciting has happened. We had a couple of GQs for air raids, but no harm done. We have made two trips to Corsica and back to France with Air Corps ground crews.

We saw the LST 282 which was hit just an hour after we left the beach on D-Day. It was really a mess, and they told us that only 20 men survived from the crew and troops aboard.

We took on troops at Calvi, a small port in Corsica, unloaded at Green Beach and then headed for Naples, I think. Another air raid tonight, but no harm done. back to top


September 5, 1944 – Tuesday
Since I last wrote, we have made numerous trips to Corsica. We loaded at Calvi, Il Ruesse, and Ajaccio and took troops and equipment to France.

At Ajaccio, we had a wonderful time swimming, playing ball, etc. We named it “Amphibious Playground.” I met Dick Seems from Elmira who is a full LT on the LST 603. It was nice to see someone from home.

Today we pulled into Nasida and received mail. I had 42 letters. We also received new orders and are now back in Flotilla 20. back to top

September 6, 1944 – Wednesday
Completed loading and are anchored out. At 1900, got underway for France again. back to top

September 9, 1944 – Saturday
Arrived in Southern France and unloaded near Ste Maxime. This is near the other small areas where we have unloaded Ste Raphael and Ste Tropez. Word has it that we’re going to Oran, North Africa next. back to top

September 13, 1944 – Wednesday
Pulled into Oran. Was surprised at the size of the city. It is a large harbor with many loading docks. We loaded French troops and equipment. They are anxious, understandably, to get back to their homeland. back to top

September 14, 1944 – Thursday
I went on liberty in Oran and was surprised to see the place so civilized. Even with all the Arabs in their dress, there were many people dressed conventionally and very nicely. There are nice shops and it is, relatively speaking, fairly clean. Received mail today. back to top

September 15, 1944 – Friday
Got underway for France today. The weather was great. Seems like a Mediterranean cruise. (Ha, ha, ha). back to top

September 19, 1944 – Tuesday
We hit a big storm today, and the 907 is taking her worst beating since she was commissioned. A lot of the Frenchmen are sick, but that’s all the easier on the galley crew – they can’t eat!! back to top

September 20, 1944 – Wednesday
Sighted land today, but it is still very rough. We rode out the storm last night as it was too rough to go in. Pulled into Green Beach area and unloaded the French troops. As soon as the French troops were off, we started loading German prisoners. There are about 150 of them. They are staying on the tank deck.
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September 22, 1944 – Friday
Got underway for Oran. The German prisoners are doing odd jobs around the ship -- some as chipping decks and we have two as mess cooks. Some of them look like kids – 15-16 years old; others look like they’re in their 70s and 80s. We are feeding them as their pay for working, and we do it 35 at a time. It’s difficult to communicate with them. back to top

September 24-25, 1944 – Sunday and Monday
Anchored at Oran. Had a smooth trip and made good time. Went into Oran on 25th and unloaded the prisoners. Got mail and had a beer party. back to top

September 26-27, 1944 – Tuesday and Wednesday
Loaded more French troops and have to cook for them. Got underway at 1400 (9/27) and are supposed to be headed to Marseilles this time. back to top

September 28, 1944 – Thursday
On route to Marseille, we hit another bad storm. It’s worse than the last one, I think. LST 49 lost all her trucks on topside and had quite a bad time of it. We’re at least 24 hours behind schedule. back to top


October 1, 1944 – Sunday
Anchored in harbor at Marseilles, France. Weather is still heavy. The liberty party that went ashore can’t get back because of it. back to top

October 2, 1944 – Monday
The storm is getting worse. We lost our bow anchor which had us a bit uptight. Looks like the stern anchor will hold us until things calm down. back to top

I’m all alone cooking for the crew and Frenchmen. Others are ashore, not able to get back. Gilbert helped some.

October 3, 1944 – Tuesday
The liberty party got back about noon. I went on liberty in Marseilles with a bunch of guys. Looked around and now understand why people rave about French cities. back to top

October 4, 1944 – Wednesday
Slept all AM and got special liberty in the PM. Went into Marseilles with Purtill and had a good time. This is, by far, the best liberty town we’ve been in so far. Had some “famous” French wine. back to top

October 6, 1944 – Friday
Pulled out of Marseilles with a load of men from the 12th Air Corps. Heading for Leghorn (Livorno), Italy. We’re having bad weather again -- very rough -- but we’re used to it now and it doesn’t bother us as much as it did, although it’s still difficult to operate in the galley under these rough conditions. back to top

October 9, 1944 – Monday
Pulled into Leghorn, about 20 miles from the front. Unloaded and left immediately to let in another convoy. Anchored outside Leghorn. The harbor is full of sunken Italian and German ships. The city is in total ruin, and there are very few people left here. Got underway for Naples this evening. back to top

October 11, 1944 – Wednesday
Pulled into Nasida at 1400. Expect to load troops again and appears that we’ll be seeing more than we thought. Rumors are still flying, but it doesn’t look like we’ll be heading westward for a while. back to top

October 13, 1944 – Friday
Got underway for Salerno early AM. Arrived at Salerno at 1100 and left there at 1800 for Bizerte. Stopped at Salerno to pick up some small boats for some of the ships. back to top

October 15, 1944 – Sunday
Pulled into Bizerte (Karouba). Went to the movies and saw “Happy Go Lucky.” Heard we’re going to be here for a while. back to top


October 16 – November 4, 1944
In this time frame, we spent a lot of time on “field days” and inspections. Almost every day we had some kind of an inspection. We also had plenty of movie time and play a lot of basketball. We have a good team – only lost one of five games against the other ships. back to top

November 5, 1944 – Sunday
Pulled out of Bizerte for Oran, North Africa. All ships are towing LCTs which looks encouraging for going home. Beautiful weather and calm sea. back to top

November 8, 1944 – Wednesday
Arrived in Oran. Received mail and had movie aboard. back to top

November 9, 1944 – Thursday
Left Oran in early evening for Corsica. There goes the hope that we might be heading west. Weather is getting bad, and it looks like we will have a rough trip. back to top

November 13, 1944 – Monday
This morning we spotted the snow-capped mountains of Corsica. Pulled into Bastia at 0930, and got some disappointing news. We’re going to make three more trips to Marseilles with troops and equipment. We were all pretty disappointed but, as the saying goes, “war is hell.” Saw some movies. We now have a projector on board. back to top

November 15 – 26, 1944
Pulled out of Bastia for Marseilles. For the next 12 days we made several shuttle runs between the two ports. We had mixed weather – some very rough trips and others in very calm sea. During this time, we had two submarine alerts. The DEs chased them and dropped depth charges, but to no avail. back to top

November 27, 1944 – Monday
Arrived in Toulon from Marseilles. This is the harbor in which the French scuttled their fleet. The harbor is full of sunken ships. We tied up between two sunken French battleships. Quite a sight, one that I’ll never forget. back to top

November 28, 1944 – Tuesday
Still in Toulon. Lemon and I cooked a full Thanksgiving dinner. We had Turkey and all the trimmings. The crew really enjoyed it, but is sure was a lot of work.

Went on liberty. It’s hard to believe that this place used to be a very popular summer resort. It is almost totally destroyed.
We’re picking up pontoons (cause ways) but not sure where we’re going.
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December 1-2, 1944 – Friday and Saturday
Pulled out of Toulon for Corsica. Arrived Bastia on 12/2/44, loaded, and shoved off for Naples. back to top

December 4-5, 1944 – Monday and Tuesday
Pulled into Naples, unloaded, and left 12/5/44 for the Island of Elba. No one can imagine why we’re going to Elba but, at this point, nothing will surprise us.
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December 6-10, 1944 – Wednesday-Sunday
Pulled into the bay outside of the capital of Elba, Porto Ferraio. The next few days are the most interesting I’ve spent over here. Few Americans can say they’ve seen and experienced what we did on this island. back to top

On 12/7/44 – Thursday – we tied up at the dock and began to load. We were surprised when we saw the cargo of sheep, goats, mules, and tons of miscellaneous things like rails, tools, antiquated equipment, etc., etc. This belonged to divisions of the French and Italian Armies. What a sight!!

The first night the people of the town had a big party for the crew. I had duty so was unable to go. The next day, I had liberty. We toured Napoleon’s home and castle. It was very interesting. I bought a sword (sabre) there. That same night a group of young men had a party for us with plenty of wine and girls. A boy about 14 years old sang which really impressed us. We also met twin girls about 9 years old. They danced with us, and we really had a good time.

On December 8, 1944, we went to Rio Marino, a small port about 10 miles from Porto Ferraio, to complete loading. Arson and I walked through the mountains – it was a beautiful sight.

December 11, 1944 – Monday
Finished loading and shoved off for Marseilles. back to top

December 12-13, 1944 – Tuesday and Wednesday
Arrived Marseilles and unloaded. Shoved off from Marseilles on 12/13/44 for Bizerte. Hit a tailwind and are really moving fast (relatively speaking).
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December 15, 1944 – Friday
Pulled into Bizerte. Received all of our back mail which made everyone feel better. back to top

December 17, 1944 – Sunday
Left Bizerte for Palermo with a load of trucks, jeeps, and troops. back to top

December 18-21, 1944 – Monday-Thursday
Arrived in Palermo, Sicily. It’s the same old story – the place is in ruins, but we saw some very interesting sights.

On maneuvers for a couple of days – very boring!! back to top

December 22-27, 1944 – Friday-Wednesday
Pulled into dock in Palermo for the holiday.

On Christmas Eve, I went to a midnight service – took communion.

Got up early on Christmas Day but nothing to do as I did not have duty. Had a nice Christmas dinner and, for once, I had a chance to eat with the crew.
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December 28, 1944 – Thursday
Left Palermo for Bizerte. Rough weather. Also, many rumors continue to fly. The Basketball team received a special letter from the Skipper today. back to top


December 30-31, 1944 – Saturday and Sunday
Arrived in Bizerte and started to load equipment and troops from the base. Looks like about 400 men which isn’t going to make it a very pleasant trip. Had a New Year’s Eve toast aboard for a victorious year. back to top


January 2, 1945 – Tuesday
Left Bizerte for Oran with 450 Seabees. Rough weather which made it difficult to cook for the 550 aboard, but we did it without mishap. One of -- if not the worst -- storm we have encountered. back to top

January 5-9, 1945 – Friday-Tuesday
Arrived in Oran, and we were all glad to see a port again. Went on liberty several times. Still the same old place. We’re having a lot of rain and snow. The snow looks good as we haven’t seen much of it since we came over. Spend most of our liberty time at a nice Red Cross facility – movies are usually good.
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January 10-12, 1945 – Wednesday-Friday
Left Oran on 1/10/45 and had a beautiful trip down the coast of Africa. We could see snow-capped mountains most all the way. back to top

Arrived in Bizerte on 1/12/45 and are waiting to see what happens now. I met another fellow from home at the Red Cross here. back to top

January 13-14, 1945 – Saturday and Sunday
Loaded up and pulled out of Karouba. Weather is starting to clear up.

Arrived in Palermo at 1700, 1/14/45. Received lots of mail. It’s like spring here; a welcome change. back to top

January 15-22, 1945 – Monday-Monday
Nothing much new or exciting. We went out on maneuvers several times but only for a day at a time. Went on liberty a couple of times, and saw many interesting sights including a beautiful cathedral with a very unique sea dial in the floor. back to top

Had orders to form riot squads because of the rash of civilian outbreaks. Nothing ever came of it.

January 23-25, 1945 – Tuesday-Thursday
Pulled out of Palermo to go on maneuvers for two days. Familiar routine by now.

On 1/24/45 PM, pulled in to dry dock in Palermo. All hands scraped the bottom. We had a few holes we didn’t know about.

Finished work in dry dock on 1/25/45, and pulled out to tie up. Had mail but nothing else new. back to top

January 26 – February 10, 1945
During this period, life was pretty routine. We got into a softball tournament, but lost the consolation championship. Still going on maneuvers but just seem to be fooling around. Played some more ball but didn’t do very well. Haven’t had mail for some time now. Had liberty several times. back to top


February 11-13, 1945 – Sunday-Tuesday
Left Palermo at 1730 for Italy. This seems like a secret trip. On route to Piombino, a port south of Leghorn.

Arrived Piombino on 2/13/45 at 1200. Still no news as to what this trip is all about. Expect to leave for Leghorn tomorrow. back to top

February 14, 1945 – Wednesday
Pulled out of Piombino and arrived in Leghorn at 1200. Weather is beautiful – just like summer.

Started to load on Air Corps unit, but still don’t know what’s going on or where we’re going. back to top

February 15, 1945 – Thursday
Pulled out of Leghorn for France. We have 160 Air Corpsmen and their equipment aboard. Weather is nice and smooth sea. back to top

February 16, 1945 – Friday
Pulled into Marseilles at 0900. This trip continues to have mystery around it. We cannot have liberty, so assume we’re on a very secret mission. back to top

February 17, 1945 – Saturday
Pulled out of Marseilles in AM. Met another convoy moving into Marseilles Harbor. We have specially camouflaged trucks on the mail deck. Still appears to be something secretive about this whole thing. back to top

February 18-19, 1945 – Sunday and Monday
Arrive in Leghorn in AM. Liberty has been granted again.

On 2/19/45, we went to Pisa. It was a wonderful experience to see the Tower, Cathedral, and other sights in the town. back to top

February 20, 1945 – Tuesday
Started to load Canadian troops and tanks in the PM. Got mail today.
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February 21, 1945 – Wednesday
Left Leghorn in the AM. Have 300 Canadian troops and equipment aboard. They are really nice guys. back to top

February 22, 1945 – Thursday
Arrived in Marseilles early AM. Had nice weather. Unloaded the Canadians and immediately loaded some US troops and trucks. back to top

February 23, 1945 – Friday
Left Marseilles with US troops on route to Leghorn. back to top

February 24-25, 1945 – Saturday and Sunday
Arrived in Leghorn 2/24/45 AM. Started to load more Canadian troops.
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On 2/25/45, pulled out of Leghorn for Marseilles. Weather is okay. Feeding about 300 troops. back to top

February 26, 1945 – Monday
Arrived in Marseilles early this AM and unloaded. We were granted liberty here again for the first time in several trips. I had duty so didn’t go out.
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February 27, 1945 – Tuesday
Left Marseilles early in the AM. Looks like we’ll be making these runs for a while. back to top

February 28, 1945 – Wednesday
Arrived in Leghorn and started to load Canadian troops. back to top


March 1, 1945 – Thursday
Left Leghorn with Canadians. Weather is okay. back to top

March 2, 1945 – Friday
Arrived in Marseilles. Went on liberty with “Chuck” (Matthews??), and had a great time. Came close to spending the night ashore as the harbor was very rough. Got back to the ship at 0200. back to top

March 3, 1945 – Saturday
Underway again for Leghorn. Weather is a bit rough, but we’ve seen worse.
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March 4 – 13, 1945
We continue our trips from Marseilles to Leghorn. Most of the troops we’re moving are Canadian. Several trips in this period were, for the most part, good.
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March 14-17, 1945 – Wednesday-Saturday
Started a five-day R&R leave in Florence, Italy. Stayed at the 5th Army Rest Camp which was a converted railway station. Met a lot of GIs who have been having it rough at the front. Some I met were from the 10th Mountain Division which is really having a bad time up in the mountains not far from here.

Toured Florence and saw many interesting things. Many of the valuable statues, monuments, pictures, etc. are sandbagged, but it was still a very thrilling experience.

Met a Red Cross worker, Given Roediger, from Rochester, NY. Had a great time talking about home. back to top

March 18, 1945 – Sunday
Arrived back in Leghorn today. The 907 was out so slept on the 602. Expect the 907 tomorrow. back to top

March 19, 1945 – Monday
The 907 arrived in Leghorn today. They ran into mine fields on German E-Boats on the northern tip of Corsica. No damage, but “Sally” is still sending us warnings so we’re looking forward to more trouble. back to top

March 20-26, 1945 – Tuesday-Monday
Left Leghorn 3/20/45 with a load of Canadian and British troops. We’re taking the southern route apparently to stay away from E-Boats and submarines.

Arrived in Marseilles on 3/22/45. Unloaded and immediately started to load about 300 Jap-American troops (242nd Division), who I learned later were real heroes up in the mountains of northern Italy.

Got underway from Marseilles at 1630 on 3/23/45.

Arrived Leghorn on 3/25/45 after taking the long route again to avoid trouble. Unloaded the Jap-American troops and immediately took on about 100 more British troops. back to top

March 27-29, 1945 – Tuesday-Thursday
Left Leghorn on 3/27/45 with British troops and equipment.
Arrived in Marseilles 3/29/45 early, unloaded and immediately shoved off for port unknown. back to top

March 31, 1945 – Saturday
Arrived in Palermo, Sicily at 1000 hours. Looks like we’ll be here for a week or ten days on availability basis. back to top


April 1, 1945 – Sunday
Went to church today. It was a beautiful service. back to top

April 9, 1945 – Monday
Left Palermo at 2400 hours. Good sailing weather. back to top

April 11, 1945 – Wednesday
Arrived in Bastia, Corsica in AM. Looks like we’re going to start making more trips from here. Rumors are starting to fly about going home.

Took on about 40 US troops and vehicles. back to top

April 12-15, 1945 – Thursday-Sunday
Arrived in Leghorn in PM. Only a 7-hour trip with good weather. Then back to Bastia on 4/14/45.

Back to Leghorn on 4/15/45 with troops.

April 16-19, 1945 – Monday-Thursday

Left Leghorn in AM on 4/16/45. The weather is great, getting warmer.

Arrived Bizerte 4/18/45 in the AM. Looks like we’re clearing our the base at Karouba.

Played ball each day. Getting hotter each day. back to top

April 20-21, 1945 – Friday and Saturday
Left Bizerte with a load of Navy equipment.

Arrived in Palermo on 4/21/45. Looks like we’ll be here for a while. back to top

April 26-27, 1945 – Thursday and Friday
Left Palermo with a load of LCs.

Arrived in Naples on 4/27/45 in the AM. Unloaded and immediately pulled our at 1500 hours. back to top


April 28 – May 6, 1945
Pulled into Leghorn. Again, it appears that something secretive is going on, but have no ideas of what it is.

Laid in here for several days. Played ball, drank beer, and saw several movies. back to top

May 7, 1945 – Monday IT’S OVER!!
We heard the wonderful news today. Everyone is thrilled, happy – can’t describe the feeling. back to top

May 8, 1945 – Tuesday
Pulled out of Leghorn and arrived in Bastia just in time for a BIG celebration. This place went absolutely wild, and we enjoyed sharing it with them. They have been through so much. back to top

May 9-12, 1945 – Wednesday-Saturday
A couple more trips from Bastia to Leghorn moving troops and equipment.
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May 13, 1945 – Sunday
Pulled out of Leghorn for Oran. Looks like this will be one of the last runs.
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May 16, 1945 – Wednesday
Arrived in Oran. Some LSTs already have LCTs aboard. Looks pretty good for heading west. back to top

May 17, 1945 – Thursday
Bad news again. Received orders to make another run. Got underway at 1700 hours. back to top

May 21-23, 1945 – Monday-Wednesday
Arrived in Taranto, Italy at 1100 hours. Went on liberty – not much to see here.

Have been informed that we will be taking British troops to Trieste where Tito has been causing trouble.

Loaded British troops and a hospital corps, apparently to take somewhere up the west coast of Italy. back to top

May 24-27, 1945 – Thursday-Sunday
Left Taranto at 1730 hours with about100 British troops and equipment.

Weather is cloudy; dark with apparent storms.

Arrived at Ancona on 5/26/45 at 1600 hours. Anchored out. Looks like we’re going all the way to Trieste.

At anchor all day on 5/27/45. More ships arriving. back to top

May 28, 1945 – Monday
Left Ancona at 2100 hours. Still have the “bloody” British. They are a real pain. back to top

May 29-30, 1945 – Tuesday and Wednesday
Arrived in Trieste in AM. Looks like a lot of trouble. Tito has his guerillas here and trouble is expected any minute. There are two British cruisers standing by ready to take action. For a few hours, we had our starboard guns constantly trained on the streets but nothing happened.

Unloaded the troops and glad to get rid of that bunch.

Pulled out of Trieste at 1430 hours. back to top

May 31, 1945 – Thursday
Arrived in Ancona. Anchored out, but no news as to what happens now.
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June 1, 1945 – Friday
This is the end of our first year over here. Went swimming – weather is warm and so is the water. Pulled out of Ancona at 1900 for Palermo.
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June 3, 1945 – Sunday
Received mail at sea from an LCI. It was a pleasant surprise and very welcome.
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June 4-20, 1945
Arrived in Palermo, Sicily. Received more mail. Looks like we’ll be here for a while.

Had several liberties. Went to Mondello Beach on 6/7/45 for swimming, sailing, and had a wonderful time with great weather. back to top

June 21, 1945 – Thursday
Left Palermo after two weeks of great fun and enjoyment. Haven’t had any mail since we arrived here, however looks like this will be another try at heading home. back to top

June 24, 1945 – Sunday
Arrived in Oran. Looks like this is really it. Some ships are already loaded ready to go. We expect to do the same very soon. back to top

June 28, 1945 – Thursday
Oran – loaded LCT 1042 today. Sure looks good for going home. back to top

June 30, 1945 – Saturday
Pulled out of Oran.

Flew our victory pennant. Everyone is excited. back to top


July 1, 1945 – Sunday
Underway heading west – finally. Went by the Rock of Gibraltar and could see it clearly. back to top

July 2, 1945 – Monday
Arrived in Casablanca at 2000 hours. Got paid in blue seal money. Starting to take on passengers going home. back to top

July 3, 1945 – Tuesday
Received mail for the first time since June 3rd. Unloaded the tank deck.

Pulled out of Casablanca at 1700 for the USA. To say we’re happy and excited is the understatement of the year. back to top

July 18, 1945 – Wednesday
Arrived in New York Harbor at 1000 after a very calm, pleasant trip across the Atlantic. It was a thrill to see the Statue of Liberty and no words could describe how it feels to be home again and to know that we will see our loved ones soon.

Talked to my family after we got tied up and settled. No words can describe that either. back to top

July 19, 1945 – Thursday
Left New York for Norfolk, VA at 0800. back to top

This is the end of my entries. I must have gotten lazy. Because of no berth space in several ports, we ended up in Houston, TX from where we go our 30-day leave. We were on leave at the time that VJ-Day was declared. At the end of August 1945, we returned to the ship and from that date we continuously bid farewell to our shipmates who got discharged.

07/30/1985
STR:yy

Originally typed from handwritten log
Edited by Shirl T. Reinhart
July 31, 1985

Reformatted by Christine (Reinhart) Hoek
August 25, 2003


USS LST 907 PORTS ENTERED
June 2, 1944 – July 3, 1945


North Africa
Bizerte (Karouba)
Casablanca
Oran
Tunis

Italy
Ancona
Civitavecchia
Leghorn
Naples
Nasida
Piombino
Pozzuoli
Salerno
Taranto


France
Marseilles
Nice
Ste. Maxime
Ste. Raphael
Ste. Tropez
Toulon

Elba
Porto Ferraio
Rio Marino

Corsica
Ajaccio
Bastia
Calvi
Il Ruesse
Porto Vecchio

back to top

Sicily
Messina
Palermo

Yugoslavia
Trieste

Other Cities Visited
Pisa, Italy
Florence, Italy
Ferryville, North Africa

© 2003 | Updated: Oct. 10, 2005  
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