MUSKEGON, MI – The USS LST 393 Veterans Museum will host its 12th annual D-Day commemoration May 29-31, marking the 82nd anniversary of the Normandy invasion aboard a ship that participated in the historic operation.
The landing ship tank vessel, built in 1942, made 30 round trips to Omaha Beach during the invasion, delivering weapons and earning three battle stars. Now permanently moored at the Mart Dock on Muskegon’s downtown waterfront, the ship serves as a museum honoring veterans from all eras.
LST 393 at Muskegon.
A 1940s-era swing dance aboard the nearby Milwaukee Clipper cruise ship highlights this year’s event. The dance will feature live music, food and beverages for $15 per ticket. The Aquastar cruise boat will offer rides throughout the weekend.
Dozens of World War II reenactors representing American, French, British, Australian, German and Japanese forces will portray sailors, Marines, soldiers, airmen, nurses and civilian fighters on the ship and surrounding grounds. World War II-era vehicles including halftracks, trucks, Jeeps and an anti-aircraft searchlight will be on display.
Saturday’s schedule begins with an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast by the Northside Lions Club starting at 8 a.m. Food vendors including G&L Chili Dogs and Culver’s will serve throughout the day
At noon, “Air Raid Muskegon” will feature replica anti-aircraft guns firing at the Hooligans Flight Team flying vintage aircraft in a mock attack on LST 393, accompanied by a narrated ground battle between Allied and Axis forces.
Museum tours will be discounted Saturday to $10 per person or $20 per family, with free admission for members.
After serving as the car freighter Highway 16 on Lake Michigan, local volunteers restored the LST 393 ship to its military appearance and established the museum.
The museum operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Regular admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students and veterans, which includes museum membership.
All event proceeds benefit the museum and area veterans. Special tours and group events can be arranged by calling 231-730-1477, or by clicking here.
