Dozens of people boarded LST 325 in cold, blustery weather to honor the nation’s veterans. WNIN’s John Gibson was there:
(Bell rings)
The World War Two ship on Evansville’s riverfront rang its bells 21 times and retired TV journalist Brad Byrd addressed the Veterans Day gathering:
"We are here today not to celebrate war but to commemorate and celebrate the sacrifice and service that 41 million men and women have given to our country in the military since World War 1."
LST Director Chris Donahue noted the troops that served on the ship dealt with a lot more than chilly weather:
"Imagine the North Atlantic in February. The other side of that coin would be the Pacific, you know. Come and take a tour of this ship in July or August. You'll know what we're talking about."
The observance included a gun salute, taps, and bagpipes played by Adam Biggie.
(Bagpipes play)
LST 325 took part in the D-Day Invasion and is the only functioning Landing Ship Tank left in the world.
167 such ships were built in Evansville during the Second World War.
