USS Capella (AK-13)

USS Capella (AK-13) was a Crater-class cargo ship commissioned by the U.S. Navy for service in World War II. She was responsible for delivering troops, goods and equipment to locations in the war zone. Named after the star Capella, the brightest star in the constellation Auriga, she was one of only a few ships of the Navy to bear this name.

Originally the SS Meteor, a Maritime Commission type C1-B cargo ship, she was laid down on 29 December 1939 by the Moore Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company, Oakland, California. She was launched on 14 September 1940, sponsored by Mrs. Roger D. Lapham, and delivered to the American-Hawaiian Steamship Company on 29 November 1940. The Navy acquired her on 15 January 1942, renamed her USS Capella (AK-13), and commissioned her on 18 January 1942, Commander A. M. Granum in command.

During her service, Capella primarily operated in the Pacific Theater, transporting supplies and personnel to support various naval operations. She participated in campaigns in the South Pacific and contributed to the logistical support vital for the Allied war effort.

Following the end of World War II, USS Capella was decommissioned on 26 February 1946 and struck from the Naval Vessel Register on 17 April 1946. She was sold to the Kaiser Company, Inc. on 22 July 1946.