USS Inflict (AM-251) was an Admirable-class minesweeper built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. She was built to clear minefields in offshore waters, and served the Navy in the North Atlantic Ocean and then in the Pacific Ocean. At war's end, she returned home with three battle stars to her credit.

Inflict was laid down 26 October 1943 by Savannah Machine & Foundry Co., Savannah, Georgia; launched 16 January 1944; and commissioned 28 August 1944, Lt. Comdr. Sherman B. Wetmore in command.

World War II North Atlantic operations

After shakedown and minesweeping exercises off the Virginia coast, Inflict arrived Casco Bay, Maine, 30 October for antisubmarine warfare exercises. Following upkeep at Norfolk, Virginia, she arrived Miami, Florida, 1 December for duty as training school ship. Inflict trained student officers until 1 April 1945 when she sailed for the U.S. West Coast, arriving San Diego, California, 5 May.

Transfer to the Pacific Fleet

Two days later she sailed for the Far East, and engaged in convoy escort duty and minesweeping off Okinawa while American units ashore fought against the opposition. After the Americans declared the island secured 21 June, Inflict operated out of it as a base.

End-of-War Activity

From 13 to 23 August she swept minefields on Kyūshū clearing the way for vessels bringing American occupation forces. She then returned to Okinawa to prepare for occupation duty.

As the greatest sea war in history ended in Allied victory, Inflict departed Okinawa 30 August for operations in Korea, Formosa, and Japan, remaining there until January 1946.

The minesweeper returned to San Pedro, California, 17 February for training and readiness operations.

Post-War Decommissioning

After a summer cruise to Guam and Pearl Harbor, she arrived Bremerton, Washington, in mid-October, decommissioning there 6 November 1946. Inflict was transferred to the Maritime Commission 8 October 1948 and released to her purchaser, Ricardo Granola, the same day. She was renamed Manabi and placed into mercantile service. Her ultimate fate is not known.

Awards

Inflict received three battle stars for World War II service.

References

External links

• NavSource Online: Mine Warfare Vessel Photo Archive - Inflict (AM-251)