Kaiser Liberty Ship presentation set for 80th D-Day anniversary

Built by thousands of civilians in Henry Kaiser’s Portland shipyards, Liberty ships made significant contributions in World War II.

The workforce of more than 100,000 was able to efficiently build ships that helped secure the United States’ victory on D-Day, and on the 80th anniversary Thursday, June 6, Columbia County residents have an opportunity to learn more about their efforts.

Peter Marsh, Astoria resident and author of “Liberty Factory: The Untold Story of Henry Kaiser’s Shipyards,” will deliver a presentation about the Liberty ships at the Columbia Learning Center Auditorium, located at 375 S. 18th St. in St. Helens.

According to a press release by the Columbia County Museum Association, Marsh credits the ability to build merchant ships faster than German U-Boats could sink them as a crucial advantage for the U.S. in the war. His book discusses the role Kaiser’s shipyards played in achieving that goal.

The presentation is free, and doors open at 6:30 p.m. ahead of the 7 p.m. start time.