The USS Gypsum Queen (SP-430) was a sea-going tugboat constructed in 1890 by Dialogue & Company in Camden, New Jersey. Originally owned by J. B. King Transportation Co. of New York City, the vessel was acquired by the United States Navy in September 1917 during World War I and was commissioned on December 4, 1917, in New York City. Designed for towing and assistance operations, the Gypsum Queen was adapted for service overseas, where she was assigned to the French coast. After being fitted out at the New York Navy Yard, she served primarily as a minesweeper and tugboat, providing vital support to Allied naval operations. Her duties included towing disabled ships and clearing mines, tasks that were crucial yet hazardous in the wartime maritime environment. The vessel's service was marked by its active involvement off the coast of France, notably around Brest. On April 28, 1919, during an operation to assist minesweepers foundering off the French coast, the Gypsum Queen struck a rock near Armen Light House off Brest and sank. This accident resulted in the loss of 15 crew members, including two officers and 13 enlisted men. The sinking was a significant event, highlighting the perilous conditions faced by support vessels operating in wartime waters. As a vessel, the Gypsum Queen exemplified the versatile utility of early 20th-century sea-going tugs, playing a critical role in maritime support during World War I. Her service, though cut short by her tragic loss, contributed to the Allied war effort by ensuring the mobility and safety of ships along the French coast. Her sinking underscored the dangers faced by support vessels engaged in critical but hazardous operations during wartime maritime activity.

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