USS Fentress (AK-180)


USS Fentress was an acquired by the US Navy during the final months of World War II. In 1950, she was reactivated and placed into service with the Military Sea Transportation Service as USNS Fentress. She was ultimately transferred to the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

Construction

Fentress was launched on 10 March 1945, by Kaiser Cargo, Inc., Richmond, California, under a Maritime Commission contract, MC hull 2376; sponsored by Mrs. G. M. Ellis; and commissioned 4 May 1945, Lieutenant G. T. Malley, USNR, in command.

Service history

World War II-related service

After shakedown and availability, Fentress engaged in local operations until 27 June 1945 when she departed San Francisco, California, to transport cargo among the Philippine Islands. On 20 February 1946 she was placed out of commission and returned to the U.S. Maritime Commission.

Service with the MSTS

After the organization of the Military Sea Transportation Service, Fentress was reacquired on 1 July 1950 for service.

Merchant service

Fentress was struck from the Navy List on 15 October 1973 and transferred to the Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands on 20 July 1974.
On 4 July 1982, she was transferred permanently to the Republic of the Marshall Islands, her fate is unknown.
This ship was apparently still docked on the Hawaiian Islands in 1982, as it was seen on the Magnum P.I. episode, "I do".