USS Endurance (ARDM-3) explained
was originally laid down as ARD-18, a non self-propelled
United States Navy Auxiliary floating drydock in 1944. Built by the
Pacific Bridge Company in
Alameda, California. During
World War II USS ARD-18 was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater and serviced ships at
Guadalcanal,
Ulithi, and
Leyte-Samar Naval Base. After the war, floating dry dock ARD-18 was sent to Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Corp.'s yard, circa 1967-68 and was lengthened by adding a 100feet midsection as well as an additional deck above the uppermost crane deck. Redesignated Medium Auxiliary Repair Dry Dock Endurance (ARDM-3), she served until retirement in 1995.
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