The USS Celeritas (SP-665) was a United States Navy patrol vessel that served during World War I from 1917 to 1919. Originally built as a private motorboat in 1916 by Robert Jacobs at City Island in the Bronx, New York, the vessel was designed by the firm of Swasey, Raymond, & Page. The boat was initially owned by David Goodrich, who used it for commuting purposes. Later, the vessel was sold to R. B. Myer of New York City before being acquired by the U.S. Navy. Constructed as a private motorboat, the Celeritas was subsequently adapted for military use. The Navy purchased her on 28 May 1917, and she was officially commissioned the following day as USS Celeritas (SP-665). The vessel was assigned to the 2nd Naval District, located in southern New England, where she carried out patrol duties throughout the duration of the war. Her role was primarily to perform section patrol duties, which involved monitoring and safeguarding the coastal waters against enemy submarines, mines, and other threats during wartime. Celeritas's service was relatively brief, ending shortly after the conclusion of World War I. She was stricken from the Navy Directory on 17 May 1919 and sold on 25 June 1919. While specific details regarding her dimensions, armament, or notable patrol engagements are not provided, her service exemplifies the widespread utilization of private vessels converted for wartime patrol duties during World War I. Her conversion from a private motorboat to a naval patrol vessel highlights the Navy’s rapid adaptation of civilian craft to meet wartime needs, contributing to coastal defense efforts during a critical period in U.S. maritime history.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.