USS Constant (AM-427)

USS Constant (AM-427) was an Admirable-class minesweeper built for the United States Navy during World War II. She was designed to clear enemy minefields in combat areas, and to perform escort and patrol duties.

Constant was laid down on 19 April 1944 by the Winslow Marine Railway and Shipbuilding Co., Winslow, Washington; launched on 16 June 1944; sponsored by Mrs. J. D. Phelan; and commissioned on 16 December 1944, Lieutenant Commander F. G. Reinberger, USNR, in command.

Following shakedown off California, Constant departed San Francisco on 20 February 1945, and arrived at Pearl Harbor on 27 February. She then sailed to Eniwetok and Ulithi before joining Task Force 51 (TF 51) at Saipan on 14 April. As part of Mine Division 35 (MineDiv 35), she participated in the Okinawa campaign, sweeping mines in Kerama Retto, Buckner Bay, and other key areas. The dangerous work of clearing mines enabled the safe landing of troops and the establishment of vital supply lines.

After the cessation of hostilities, Constant remained in the Far East, engaged in minesweeping operations off Japan and Korea. She assisted in clearing the way for occupation forces and ensuring safe passage for maritime traffic.

Constant returned to the United States in 1946 and was decommissioned on 13 September 1946, at Astoria, Oregon. She was placed in reserve.

Reactivated due to the Korean War, Constant was recommissioned on 16 February 1952, Lieutenant Commander G. H. Smith in command. She participated in minesweeping operations off the Korean coast, contributing to the safety of allied naval forces.

Following the Korean War, Constant was again decommissioned on 11 December 1954, at Astoria, Oregon, and returned to the reserve fleet. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on 1 July 1972. Her final disposition is unknown.

Constant received one battle star for her World War II service and one battle star for her Korean War service.