USS Adair
USS "Adair" (APA-91) was a in service with the United States Navy from 1944 to 1946. She was sold to commercial service in 1947 and was finally scrapped in 1970. History. Laid down as "Exchester", "Adair" (APA-91) was named after counties in Iowa, Kentucky, and Missouri. She was launched 29 February 1944 by Bethlehem Sparrows Point Shipyard, Sparrows Point, Maryland, under a Maritime Commission contract; transferred to the Navy 15 July 1944; and commissioned the same day, Captain S. P. Comly in command. 1944–1947. During 1944 and 1945 "Adair" carried troops and cargo between Pearl Harbor, Eniwetok, Saipan , Tinian, Ulithi, Hollandia, Manus, and Guam, with two diversions to amphibious duty. From 11 to 12 January 1945 she participated in the Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, landings and from 1 to 5 April 1945 in the Invasion of Okinawa. With the end of World War II, she supported the occupation of Korea (September–October) and China (16–30 December). She also served with the Operation Magic Carpet fleet, returning American servicemen to the United States from the Pacific. "Adair" reported to Commander, 5th Naval District, 8 March 1946; was decommissioned 30 April 1946; and returned to the Maritime Commission 3 May 1946 . She was struck from the Navy Vessel Register on 8 May 1946. 1947–1970. "Adair" was sold in 1947 to American Export Lines, Inc., New York, who renamed her SS "Express". Later, she was sold again to the Mutual Steamship Operating Company. She was scrapped in 1970. Awards. "Adair" received two battle stars for her World War II service.