USS Mercury (AK-42)

The USS Mercury (AK-42) was a Crater-class cargo ship commissioned by the U.S. Navy for service in World War II. Named after the planet Mercury, she was responsible for transporting troops, cargo, and equipment to support military operations in the Pacific Theater.

Mercury was built by the Moore Dry Dock Company of Oakland, California. She was laid down on October 29, 1941, launched on April 18, 1942, and commissioned on October 20, 1942, with Commander Carl F. Trenkle in command.

During her service, Mercury participated in numerous campaigns throughout the Pacific, including Guadalcanal, the New Guinea campaign, and the Philippines campaign. She transported vital supplies to forward operating bases, playing a critical role in sustaining Allied forces.

Following the end of World War II, Mercury was decommissioned on January 18, 1946, and struck from the Navy List on February 8, 1946. She was sold for scrap on December 19, 1946. Mercury received three battle stars for her World War II service.