The USS Mary Alice (SP-397) was a United States Navy patrol vessel with a notable yet brief service during World War I. Originally constructed as the private steam yacht Bernice in 1897 in Brooklyn, New York, the vessel was characterized by its design as a fast yacht, reflecting its private origins. Over the years, she underwent a series of renamings, first to Oneta in 1907 and later to Mary Alice in 1910, indicating her transition from private ownership to military service. In August 1917, the U.S. Navy acquired her from William J. Conners of Buffalo, New York, for patrol duties as part of the wartime effort. She was commissioned on the same day as USS Mary Alice (SP-397) and assigned to the 3rd Naval District as a unit of the Naval Coast Defense Reserve. Her primary mission involved patrolling Long Island Sound and the approaches to New York Harbor, safeguarding vital maritime routes during the war. Her service was relatively short-lived; however, a significant event marked her operational history. In October 1918, while serving as an escort for the newly commissioned submarine USS O-13 during its pre-commissioning acceptance trials, Mary Alice was involved in a tragic accident. While conducting a submerged circular run off Bridgeport, Connecticut, O-13 suddenly rammed her amidships, puncturing her hull. This collision caused Mary Alice to sink within minutes approximately 1,800 yards south of Penfield Reef Light. Remarkably, there was no loss of life, as O-13's crew quickly rescued all personnel from the water. The sinking of USS Mary Alice underscores the hazards faced by patrol vessels during wartime operations, especially during testing and training exercises. Despite her brief service, her role in patrol and escort missions contributed to the maritime security efforts of the United States during World War I.

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