After overhaul at San Pedro and training along the Pacific coast, Monticello got underway from San Diego 13 January 1967, heading for the Far East. Much action awaited her in Vietnam. She served as primary command ship for "Beacon Hill I" at Quang Tri 20 March to 2 April and "Beacon Star" there 22 April to 12 May. She joined in operation "Bell" in the latter half of May, in "Beacon Torch" and "Bear Chain" in July, and in August participated in "Kangaroo Kick," an amphibious feint off Hue, and "Belt Drive," again at Quang Tri. Relieved at Danang in September. Monticello returned to San Diego 13 October. After an overhaul that lasted until early 1968, Monticello conducted refresher training and local operations out of San Diego. In November of that year, she once again deployed to Vietnam where she remains into 1969.
Medals & Ribbons Awarded:
(During my time on her, 1967-69)
Navy Combat Action, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense, Vietnam Service w/silver star, Vietnam MUC Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Campaign w/60's device.
All Awards & Medals
Combat Action Ribbon (3) - Navy Unit Commendation (2) - Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
National Defense Service Medal - Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (5-Vietnam) - Vietnam Service Medal (11)
Humanitarian Service Medal (1-Entewetok Clean Up, 1-Boat People) - Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation (11) - Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
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Class: LSD-28 (Thomaston)
Fleet: Pacific
Award Date: 10/14/1954
Keel Date: 06/06/1955
Launch Date: 08/10/1956
Delivery Date: 03/29/1957
Builder: Ingalls SB INC/MS
Commission Date: 03/29/1957
Decommission Date: 10/01/1985
Yrs. From Commission to Decommission: 28.5