| History | |
|---|---|
 United States | |
| Name | USS Gretchen |
| Namesake | Previous name retained |
| Acquired | 30 July 1917 |
| Fate | Returned to owner 1 November 1917 |
| Notes | Operated as private motorboat Gretchen before and after U.S. Navy service |
| General characteristics | |
| Type | Patrol vessel |
| Tonnage | 84 gross register tons |
| Length | 86 ft (26 m) |
| Beam | 13 ft 6 in (4.11 m) |
| Draft | 4 ft (1.2 m) |
| Speed | 10 knots |
The first USS Gretchen (SP-423) was a patrol vessel acquired by the United States Navy in 1917.
Gretchen was built as a private motorboat. On 30 July 1917, the U.S. Navy acquired her from her owner, Sylvanus Stokes, for use as a section patrol boat during World War I. She was placed in service as USS Gretchen (SP-423).
Assigned to the 5th Naval District, Gretchen was found unsuited for use in patrol duties. The Navy returned her to her owner on 1 November 1917.
Gretchen should not be confused with USS Gretchen (SP-1181), another patrol vessel in U.S. Navy service at the same time.
References
This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships. The entry can be found here.- NavSource Online: Section Patrol Craft Photo Archive: Gretchen (SP 423)