From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships

Any of various gallinaceous birds, such as the ruffed grouse or bob-white quail, found in North America.

(AM-16: dp. 950, 1. 187'10"; b. 35'6"; dr. 9'9"; s. 14 k.; cpl. 72; a. 2 mg., cl. Lapwing)

The first Partridge (AM-16) was laid down 14 May 1918 by the Chester SB Co., Chester, Pa.: launched 15 October 1918; sponsored by Miss C. H. McCay; commissioned 17 June 1919, Lt. (j.g.) W. K. Bigger in command.

Completed too late to participate in World War I Partridge operated in the Pacific until returning to the Atlantic in June 1941. Converted to an ocean-going tug, Partridge was reclassified AT-138 on 1 June 1942. The tug participated in rescue and towing duties along the eastern seaboard and in the Caribbean, making an important contribution to saving lives and ships, until early May 1944. Reclassified ATO-138 on 15 May, Partridge was ordered to England to assist in preparing for the coming invasion of Normandy. The ship remained in England until 10 June, when she was ordered to sail for the beachhead. Enroute the veteran mine sweeper was hit by a torpedo from a German E-Boat at 0200 on 11 June and sank shortly after. Partridge was struck from the Naval Vessel Register 29 July 1944.