The USS Kent Island (AG-78) was a Belle Isle-class miscellaneous auxiliary acquired by the U.S. Navy shortly before the end of World War II. The ship was used to transport cargo and personnel and was inactivated and disposed of shortly after the war. The USS Kent Island (AG-78) was laid down on 19 November 1944 under a Maritime Commission contract by New England Shipbuilding Corporation, South Portland, Maine, and launched on 9 January 1945. Her awards include the American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and World War II Victory Medal. On 2 November 1960 the USS Kent Island (AG-78) was sold to Southern Scrap Material Co. to be scrapped. Asbestos was extensively used in the construction of Navy warship in a variety of components and products used on board. Exposure to this deadly mineral has left many Navy veterans sick and diseased. Because these ships remained in service for several years, they continually exposed Navy workers to asbestos. Anyone who served on board the USS Kent Island (AG-78) should monitor their health carefully, and consult a doctor if they experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, dry cough or wheezing, chest pain or tightness.
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