craft to carry. The LSTs have a ramp forward of the superstructure that connects the lower tank deck with the main deck and a passage large enough to allow access to the parking area amidships. The vessels are also equipped with a stern gate to allow the unloading of amphibious vehicles directly into the water or to unload onto a utility landing craft (LCU) or pier. At either end of the tank deck there is a turntable that permits vehicles to turn around without having to reverse. The Newport class has the capacity for of vehicles, of cargo area and could carry up to 431 troops. The vessels also have davits for four vehicle and personnel landing craft (LCVPs) and could carry four pontoon causeway sections along the sides of the hull. Racine was initially armed with four Mark 33 /50 caliber guns in two twin turrets. The vessel was equipped with two Mk 63 gun control fire systems (GCFS) for the 3-inch guns, but these were removed in 1977–1978. The ship also had SPS-10 surface search radar. Atop the stern gate, the vessels mounted a helicopter deck. They had a maximum complement of 213 including 11 officers. Construction and career The LST was ordered as the fourth hull of the third group in Fiscal Year 1967 and a contract was awarded on 15 July 1966. The ship was laid down by the National Steel & Shipbuilding Company, at their yard in San Diego, California on 13 December 1969. Named for the city in Wisconsin, Racine was launched on 15 August 1970, sponsored by the wife of Vice Admiral Edwin B. Hooper. Racine was placed in commission on 9 July 1971. Racine entered service on the west coast of the United States and spent time performing routine tasks along the coast and participating in naval exercises. Beginning in June 1972, the ship was sent on a training cruise to South America before returning to the US in July. On 13 September 1972, the LST was deployed to the western Pacific, transporting troops and supplies between the various US bases there and Vietnam. Racine returned to San Diego on 17 May 1973. The LST returned to the western Pacific in 1974, 1976–1977, 1978–1979 and 1980. For service during the Vietnam War, Racine earned one battle star. On 6 November 1979, Racine collided with Li Tung Sol, a small fishing vessel. No