The Higgins boat, officially the Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel or LCVP, carried troops and vehicles from ships to beaches during World War II.
It was designed by Andrew Higgins of New Orleans, who adapted a shallow draft boat built for Louisiana swamps. A front ramp dropped down so soldiers could rush onto the beach.
Key Battles
Higgins boats were used in landings across the Pacific and in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and on D Day in Normandy.
Did You Know
Many were built with plywood hulls, and the National WWII Museum in New Orleans displays a restored example.
See It in Person
Ohio is a great place to see military history up close. The National Museum of the United States Air Force near Dayton is free and displays hundreds of aircraft, and local veterans memorials, county historical societies, and VFW and American Legion posts across the state often display vehicles and artifacts. Thank a veteran when you visit.
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