USS Merit (AMc-90)

USS "Merit" (AMc-90) was an Accentor-class coastal minesweeper acquired by the U.S. Navy for the dangerous task of removing mines from minefields laid in the water to prevent ships from passing.

"Merit" was laid down 15 August 1941 by F. L. Fulton Co., Antioch, California; launched 4 January 1942; sponsored by Mrs. Walter H. Eels; and placed in service 28 March 1942.

World War II service

After shakedown along the coast of California, the new coastal minesweeper was assigned to the Western Sea Frontier force. Transferred 16 March 1943 to Naval Local Defense Force, 12th Naval District, she continued her sweeps and patrols to protect San Francisco Harbor as a major departure point for men and materials to the Pacific fighting fronts.

Post-war inactivation and disposal

Regarded as surplus following V-J Day, she was placed out of service 10 December 1945 and struck from the Navy list 8 May 1946. Eight months later "Merit" transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wild Life Service.

References

See also

* List of United States Navy ships
* Minesweeper (ship)

External links

* [http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/#Anchor-Editoria-14954 Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships]
* [http://www.navsource.org/archives/11/03090.htm NavSource Online: Mine Warfare Vessel Photo Archive - Merit (AMc 90)]