Built by American Bridge Company at the Ambridge Manufacturing Plant in Ambridge, PA. Launched December 30, 1943. Commissioned USS LST-138 on February 5, 1944. During World War II USS LST-138 was assigned to the Europe-Africa-Middle East Theater. Participated in the Invasion of Normandy (June 6 to 25, 1944). USS LST-138 earned one battle star for World War II service. Decommissioned on November 20, 1945. Struck from the Naval Register on December 5, 1945. Sold for conversion to merchant service on June 16, 1947, to Three Star Line, Inc., Lake Charles, LA. Purchased by the Irgun Etzel (Jewish freedom fighters), named Altalena, used to transport passengers and arms during a truce. Final Disposition, shelled and burned on the beach at Tel Aviv, Israel during the Israeli War for Independence on June 20, 1948, blown up by the Haganah.
Project Details
- Owner: U.S. Navy
- Location: Ambridge, Pennsylvania, United States
- Performed as: American Bridge Company
- Completion Date: February 1944