The USS Gypsum Queen was a steam-powered cargo ship that operated during World War II. Originally built as SS William L. Marcy in 1919, the vessel was acquired by the U.S. Navy in 1942 and converted into a naval auxiliary ship. Renamed USS Gypsum Queen, the ship was primarily used to transport gypsum, a mineral used in construction, between various ports in the United States and the Caribbean. The ship had a crew of 104 officers and enlisted men, and was armed with a single 5-inch gun for self-defense. During its service, the USS Gypsum Queen made numerous voyages carrying gypsum and other cargo, facing challenges such as enemy submarines and rough seas. The ship was involved in a collision with another vessel in 1943 but was repaired and continued its missions. After the war, the USS Gypsum Queen was decommissioned and returned to its original owners in 1946. The USS Gypsum Queen's service history highlights the vital role played by auxiliary ships in supporting military operations during World War II. It also underscores the versatility of ships like the Gypsum Queen, which could be repurposed for naval use and adapt to different missions as needed. The ship's story is a part of the broader maritime history of the United States during the mid-20th century, showcasing the contributions of merchant vessels turned naval auxiliaries in wartime logistics and operations.

This description has been generated using GPT-3.5-TURBO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.