USS Magnet (AM-260)

The USS Magnet (AM-260) was an Admirable-class minesweeper built for the United States Navy during World War II. Laid down on 29 November 1943 by the Winslow Marine Railway and Shipbuilding Co., Winslow, Washington, she was launched on 28 February 1944, sponsored by Mrs. P. E. O'Brien, and commissioned on 14 July 1944, Lieutenant Commander G. W. Lauterbach, USNR, in command.

After shakedown off southern California, Magnet reported to Commander, Western Sea Frontier, for duty. From September 1944 through April 1945, she operated along the coast of southern California, performing minesweeping exercises and serving as a schoolship for minesweeping techniques.

In April 1945, Magnet sailed for the western Pacific. Arriving at Okinawa in June, she remained in the area until the end of the war, sweeping mines in Buckner Bay and contributing to the clearing of sea lanes.

Following the cessation of hostilities, Magnet participated in the occupation of Japan, sweeping mines in Japanese waters to ensure safe passage for Allied shipping. She remained in the Far East until November 1945, when she sailed for home.

Decommissioned on 23 May 1946, Magnet was placed in reserve at Astoria, Oregon. She was struck from the Navy List on 1 October 1962 and sold for scrap in June 1963.

Magnet received one battle star for her World War II service at Okinawa.