USS Marengo (AK-194)

USS "Marengo" (AK-194) was an "Alamosa"-class cargo ship that was constructed by the U.S. Navy during the closing period of World War II. She was declared excess-to-needs and returned to the U.S. Maritime Commission shortly after commissioning.

Built in Superior, Wisconsin

"Marengo" (AK 194) was laid down under a Maritime Commission contract by Walter Butler Shipbuilders Inc., Superior, Wisconsin, 4 July 1944; launched 4 December 1944; sponsored by Mrs. R. W. Higgins; acquired by the Navy at New Orleans, Louisiana, 24 August 1945.

Military service

"Marengo" was placed in service the same day she was acquired, and was used for ferrying from Beaumont, Texas, to Galveston, Texas. She was placed out of service on arrival the 29th; and commissioned 21 September.

Dispositioning

The end of World War Il reduced the need for cargo ships, so "Marengo" decommissioned 23 November and was transferred to War Shipping Administration (WSA) the same day. The ship was subsequently operated by North Atlantic & Gulf Steamship Co., under the name "Coastal Spartan".

ee also

* United States Navy
* World War II

References

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* [http://www.navsource.org/archives/09/13/130194.htm NavSource Online: Service Ship Photo Archive - AK-194 Marengo]