 Named after counties in Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas, she was the only U.S.Naval vessel to bear the name.Originally laid down as "LST-802" on 2 September 1944 at Jeffersonville, Indiana by the Jeffersonville Boat and Machine Company; launched on 19 October 1944; sponsored by Mrs. Dolores Alberts; and commissioned on 13 November 1944 with Lieutenant K. G. Adams, USNR, in command.