 Naval vessel to bear the name.Originally laid down as LST-803 by the Jeffersonville Boat & Machine Company of Jeffersonville, Indiana 14 September 1944; launched 23 October; sponsored by Mrs. Katie Bryant; and commissioned 17 November with Lieutenant H. M. Parsons in command.After shakedown off Florida LST-803 departed New Orleans in December, arriving San Diego 8 January 1945.