USS Hope (AH-7)

The USS Hope (AH-7) was a hospital ship that served in the United States Navy during World War II. She was built as the merchant ship SS Mariposa for the Matson Navigation Company, intended for passenger service in the Pacific. In 1941, she was acquired by the Navy and converted into a hospital ship.

The USS Hope (AH-7) was commissioned on June 12, 1941. During World War II, she served primarily in the Pacific Theater. Her duties included providing medical care to wounded sailors and Marines, transporting patients between hospitals and naval facilities, and supporting amphibious operations. She participated in numerous campaigns, including operations around Guadalcanal, New Guinea, and the Philippines.

The ship was equipped with operating rooms, X-ray facilities, laboratories, and a large number of beds to accommodate patients. Her medical staff consisted of doctors, nurses, and corpsmen.

After the war, the USS Hope (AH-7) was decommissioned on February 7, 1946. She was later sold and returned to civilian service.