USS Saunter (AM-295)

USS Saunter (AM-295) was an Admirable-class minesweeper built for the United States Navy during World War II. She was designed to clear mines from enemy-held waters, as well as perform escort and patrol duties.

Saunter was laid down on 22 March 1943 by the Winslow Marine Railway and Shipbuilding Co., Winslow, Washington; launched on 18 June 1943; sponsored by Mrs. George P. Hitchcock; and commissioned on 15 December 1943, Lt. Comdr. J. S. Quigley, USNR, in command.

Following shakedown off southern California, Saunter reported for duty to the Western Sea Frontier and spent the remainder of the war in and around the Aleutian Islands. Initially operating out of Dutch Harbor, she was assigned to patrol and escort duties and served in this capacity throughout 1944 and the first half of 1945. She participated in the occupation of Attu, and performed minesweeping operations in the Attu area.

In July 1945, Saunter transferred to Adak, Alaska, and commenced similar operations in the Aleutian chain. With the end of hostilities in August, Saunter remained in the Aleutians, performing local patrol and minesweeping duties until November.

Saunter was decommissioned on 18 December 1945, at Adak and placed in reserve. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on 12 April 1946, and sold to Dulien Steel Products of Seattle, Washington, on 18 December 1946, for scrapping.

Saunter received one battle star for World War II service.