From: Dictionary of American Fighting Ships

A former name retained.

(SP - 210: dp. 304; l. 187'; b. 21'; dr. 8'6"; s. 16 k.; a. 2 3")

The first Helenita was a yacht built by Gas Engine & Power Co., Morris Heights, N.Y., acquired by the Navy from Frank J. Gould August 1917, and commissioned 17 October 1917 at Morris Heights, N.Y.

Originally intended for foreign service, Helenita sailed from Newport, R.I., to Bermuda 4 November, and until 1 January 1918 engaged in patrol, search, and dispatch service out of Bermuda. Found to be too lightly built for sea service, she was sent back to the United States, arriving 10 January 1918 at Charleston. Helenita then entered Philadelphia Navy Yard 17 January for extensive repairs.

Subsequently, Helenita was assigned briefly in May to New London, Conn., and New York, moving to Base 2, Delaware Bay, as a patrol vessel in June. She continued on this duty until sent to Norfolk for repairs 6 August to 26 November 1918. Returning to New York in May 1919, Helenita decommissioned and was simultaneously returned to her owner 17 June 1919.

Transcribed by Yves HUBERT (hubertypc@aol.com)