Question: In which year did this steel and shipbuilding company, one of America's largest steel producers and shipbuilders, which contributed to the launching of USS Cherokee begin operations?
Sentence (from "USS Cherokee (AT-66)"): She was launched on 10 November 1939 by Bethlehem Shipbuilding Corp., Staten Island, New York and sponsored by Miss E. Mark; and commissioned 26 April 1940, Lieutenant Commander P. L. F. Weaver in command.
Relevant evidence: Yes