USS Midas (ARB-5)

The USS "Midas" (ARB-5) was one of 12 "Aristaeus"-class battle damage repair ships built for the United States Navy during World War II. Named for Midas (in Greek mythology, the king of Phrygia, whose touch turned all to gold), she was the only U.S. Naval vessel to bear the name.

Originally laid down as "LST-514" on 31 August 1943 by Chicago Bridge & Iron Company of Seneca, Illinois; reclassified as a battle damage repair ship 3 November 1943 and converted by the Maryland Dry Dock Company; launched 24 December 1943; sponsored by Mrs. Frederick J. Miller; and commissioned 23 May 1944 at Baltimore, Maryland with Lieutenant Robert A. Young in command. "Midas" got underway for the Pacific, departing Norfolk, Virginia 25 June 1944. She arrived off New Guinea 26 August, having repaired ships in the Society Islands and New Caledonia en route. She continued to operate along the northern coast of New Guinea until late in October when ordered to the Philippines, arriving 12 November as the first 7th Fleet repair ship at San Pedro, Leyte. During her stay she witnessed numerous air attacks. She splashed one plane 27 November and she repaired ships of all types, readying them for further operations in the Philippines. After 25 May 1945 she continued her battle damage and routine repair work from Guiuan Roadstead, Samar, in the Philippine Islands. With the end of the War, "Midas" centered more on mine damaged hulls. Short handed as a result of men transferred for discharge, she steamed for home 10 December, arriving San Francisco 17 January 1946. "Midas" served in the 12th Naval District until transferred to San Diego in May. The repair ship was placed in reserve, in commission, 30 November 1946 as part of the 19th Fleet. She was decommissioned on 17January 1947. Transferred to the Maritime Commission for lay up in the National Defense Reserve Fleet, Suisun Bay, California. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register 15 April 1976. Disposed of by MARAD sale 19 November 1980, Sold to Columbia and also named Midas date unknown. "Midas" received one battle star for World War II service.

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