The USS Fresno (LST-1182) was the fourth tank landing ship of the Newport class, laid down in 1967, launched in 1968, and commissioned in 1969. The vessel entered service in 1969 and was assigned to the Pacific Fleet to transport tanks, heavy vehicles, engineer groups, and supplies too large for helicopters or smaller landing craft to carry. The landing ship was initially armed with four Mark 33 3-inch 50 caliber guns in two twin turrets and was equipped with two Mk 63 gun control fire systems (GCFS) for the 3-inch guns removed between 1977 and 1978. She also had an SPS-10 surface search radar and a helicopter deck. Her assignments included the Pacific Fleet’s Amphibious Force, alternating between training operations and regular deployments to the western Pacific. She fulfilled an extensive duty during the latter stages of the Vietnam War, earning her two battle stars. The USS Fresno was decommissioned in 1993 and struck from the Register in 2008. Asbestos was a staple in military ship construction due to its fire-proofing and heat insulation properties, exposing everyone onboard ships built before the 1980s to the material's toxic fibers. Navy veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer may qualify for compensation from asbestos trust funds and the VA.
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