I've heard it said around ship restoration projects that evidence of rust never hurts & especially when a ship such as LST-325 has engineering, electrical and communications systems functioning to keep her "alive". Considering her age, the rust is just cosmetic and a little fresh "battle grey" makeup will do the trick to make her beauty "shine"! (after a little chipping, of course.)
A lot of Historic Naval ships that gleam with shining surfaces would give anything to have working systems to leave their docks under their own power but those glory days are gone forever. It's a credit to the LST-325 organization who has always considered engineering as a top priority so the ship & her history can be brought to other locations.
Another thing to consider is that folks can see what it takes to keep a vessel "ship-shape" & how their contributions are well spent towards the overall maintenance, including the purchase of paint !!!
By the way, the open bow door photos are super & especially when one considers all the work done there. What a wonderful way to show the purpose of LST's as the ship approaches the shore and those doors open wide to welcome visitors !!!
Congratulations and sincere appreciation to everyone who made this successful Paducah trip possible !!
