From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships

Merchant name retained.

dr. 22'6" s. 14 k. cpl. 62 a. 2 x 3"

Cauto (No. 1538) was launched in 1916 by Seattle Construction and Dry Dock Co., Seattle, Wash.; acquired by the Navy from the Shipping Board 12 July 1918; commissioned 13 July 1918, Lieutenant Commander J. R. Curtis, USNRF, in command; outfitted at Philadelphia; and reported to the Naval Overseas Transportation Service.

Between 21 July 1918 and 9 February 1919, Cauto made three transatlantic voyages carrying supplies for the American Expeditionary Force in France. She was decommissioned at Philadelphia 22 February 1919, and returned to her owner.