USS Relief (ID-2170)

The USS Relief (ID-2170) was a hospital ship that served in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II. Originally built as the passenger and cargo liner SS Pennsylvania for the Hamburg American Line, she was launched in 1896 and primarily operated on routes between Europe and North America.

At the outbreak of World War I, SS Pennsylvania was interned in the United States to avoid capture by the Allied forces. Upon the United States' entry into the war in 1917, the ship was seized by the U.S. government. She was renamed Relief and designated ID-2170. Extensively refitted as a hospital ship, she was equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities to treat wounded soldiers and sailors.

During World War I, USS Relief served primarily in the Atlantic, transporting patients from Europe back to the United States. She played a crucial role in providing medical care and comfort to returning veterans.

Following the end of World War I, Relief remained in naval service as a hospital ship. She continued to provide medical support to the fleet, participating in various fleet exercises and deployments.

With the outbreak of World War II, USS Relief was again called into active service. She provided hospital services during the war in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, treating casualties from battles and operations.

After the end of World War II, the USS Relief was decommissioned from naval service. She was eventually sold for scrap, marking the end of her long and distinguished career as a passenger liner and a hospital ship. Her service stands as a testament to her role in providing crucial medical support during times of conflict.