STURGEON BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Door County Maritime Museum dedicated a plaque on Friday afternoon on the Sturgeon Bay West Waterfront to honor the 23 U.S. servicemen who lost their lives aboard the USS Westchester County (LST 1167) during the Vietnam War. Built at Christie Corporation in Sturgeon Bay, the vessel suffered a devastating attack on November 1, 1968, when Viet Cong swimmers placed mines on it, resulting in the deadliest single-combat loss of life for the Navy in the Vietnam War. Defensive lineman Lukas Van Ness to represent the Packers for 2024 NFL Salute to Service Award The explosion claimed the lives of 23 U.S. servicemen and two South Vietnamese personnel and left dozens more wounded. Of the 23 American men who lost their lives, 17 were crew members, five were 9th Infantry Division soldiers, and one was a sailor from River Assault Division 111. USS Westchester County Plaque (WFRV) This new plaque is part of a trio memorializing the servicemen, with additional plaques located in San Diego, the ship's home port, and Westchester County, New York. Waupaca County Sheriff’s Office ramps up efforts against wrong-way drivers The USS Westchester County earned distinguished honors, including three Navy Unit Commendations, two Meritorious Unit Commendations, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 14 service stars. The memorial plaque behind the Door County Maritime Museum is inscribed with the names of those who perished, standing as a permanent tribute to their sacrifice on the shores where the ship was first constructed.