Counties in Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
De Soto County (LST-1171) was launched 28 February 1957 by Avondale Marine Ways, Inc., Avondale, La.; sponsored by Mrs. C. H. Smith; and commissioned 10 June 1958, Lieutenant Commander D. A. York in command.
From her home port of Norfolk, Va., where she arrived 3 July 1958, De Soto County operated off the Virginia Capes and joined in amphibious exercises in the Caribbean from 17 July to 7 August and from 1 to 17 December. On 24 February 1959 she sailed from Norfolk to embark Marines at Morehead City, N.C., with whom she sailed for a tour of duty in the Mediterranean with the 6th Fleet. After taking part in a variety of exercises and calling at ports all around the historic sea, De Soto County returned by way of More-head City to Norfolk 26 August. Exercises with Marines along the North Carolina coast and local operations continued through 1962.
