The USS Rail (AM-26/AT-139/ATO-139), a Lapwing-class minesweeper built for the United States Navy during World War I, was laid down on 15 December 1917 by the Puget Sound Navy Yard, Bremerton, Washington; launched 25 April 1918; sponsored by Mrs. Robert Morgan; and commissioned on 5 June 1918. Reclassified as an Ocean Tug AT-139 on 1 June 1942, the USS Rail (AM-26/AT-139/ATO-139) remained in the Hawaiian area, serving on ASW patrol and conducting experimental minesweeping operations in addition to completing salvage and towing assignments. Decommissioned on 29 April 1946, the ship was transferred to the Maritime Commission for disposal on 17 January 1947. Asbestos was widely utilized in almost all kinds of military transportation, particularly Navy ships, due to its useful qualities, low cost, and accessibility. Unfortunately, asbestos's long-term effects cause lung diseases. Numerous studies have examined the risk of developing cancer in organs other than the lungs and found that asbestos exposure may be associated with laryngeal, stomach, colon, and rectal cancers. Veterans who suffer asbestos-related illnesses are eligible for compensation.
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