USS Commodore (IX-7)

USS Commodore (IX-7) was a former coal barge acquired by the U.S. Navy during World War I and designated a miscellaneous unclassified vessel. She served a brief but critical role providing mobile coaling services to naval vessels in European waters.

Originally built as a civilian coal barge, the Commodore was purchased by the Navy in 1918. She was assigned to the Naval Overseas Transportation Service (NOTS). Her primary duty was to transport and provide coal to ships operating off the coast of France. This mobile coaling service allowed warships and other naval vessels to remain on station longer, as they did not need to return to port as frequently for refueling.

The Commodore's service was primarily logistical, supporting the Allied war effort by ensuring ships had the necessary fuel to maintain their operations. She operated in a demanding environment, frequently navigating challenging waters and enduring harsh weather conditions.

Following the end of World War I, the Commodore was decommissioned and sold back into civilian service. Her brief naval service exemplified the crucial support role auxiliary vessels played during the war, enabling the Navy to project power and maintain a sustained presence overseas. The vessel's ultimate fate after being sold is not widely documented.