Landing Craft Vehicle and Personnel (LCVP)
2009 Display Schedule
See our newly restored LCVP on display at the dates listed below.
July 20 – August 3
August 17 – 31
September 21 – October 5
What is an LCVP?
Known as the “Higgins Boat” after designer Andrew Higgins, the 36 foot LCVP landed American troops in every amphibious assault of World War II. Originally designed during the 1930’s as the Higgins “Eureka” boat, the LCVP was capable of navigating the shallow waters of an invasion beach to land troops and material. The LCVP could then ‘back away” from the beach under its own power and return to the larger troop ships for another load of men and supplies. This unique capability prevented the invasion beaches from becoming clogged with ships stuck on the beach and allowed for a faster transfer of men and supplies. LCVP’s were tough and maneuverable craft, capable of holding 36 infantrymen and their equipment. Higgins boats were responsible for transporting men to shore at Omaha Beach during the Normandy invasion and were also used by Army and Marine forces in amphibious landings in the Pacific theatre of operations. Over 20,000 LCVP’s were manufactured during World War II, yet fewer than a dozen are known to exist today.
For more information on LCVPs check out our new LCVP online
exhibit!
Click here for the LCVP Online Exhibit
