From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, Vol. I p 66

Asheville

Asheville is a city in western North Carolina.

The first Asheville (PG-21) was launched 4 July 1918 by Charleston Navy Yard ; sponsored by Miss Alyne J. Reynolds ; and commissioned 6 July 1920, Lieutenant Commander E. Buckmaster in command.

Her first assignment was to the Special Services Squadron in Caribbean waters during 1920--22. She departed Charleston, S. C., 5 June 1922 for the Asiatic Squadron. Sailing via the Suez Canal, she reached Manila, Philippine Islands, 11 September 1922. For the next seven years she cruised in Asiatic waters protecting American interests. In 1929 she rejoined the Special Services Squadron in Caribbean waters, but returned to the Asiatic Fleet in 1932. From March 1932 to December 1940 Asheville operated mainly in Chinese waters protecting American interests. In December 1940 she returned to the Philippines and was assigned to the Inshore Patrol at Manila.

Following the Japanese attack Asheville attempted to make her way to Australia, but was intercepted and sunk by a Japanese squadron south of Java, Netherlands East. Indies, 3 March 1942.

Ashville received one battle star for her World War II service.