The USNS Taurus (T-AK-273) was the lone ship of its class and the second US Naval warship to receive the name Taurus. The USNS Taurus (T-AK-273) was put down on 8 November 1944 by the Gulf Shipbuilding Corporation in Chickasaw, Alabama. After World War II ended, its services became obsolete, and the Navy terminated the contract for its acquisition. The unnamed hull changed ownership twice before being finished in 1956 as the roll-on/roll-off ship SS Carib Queen for Trailer Marine Transport, Inc. The ship was chartered for transatlantic duty by the Military Sea Transportation Service (MSTS) in 1957. Because the USNS Taurus (T-AK-273) was built during the height of the asbestos era, those who served on it should pay close attention to their health, as they may develop serious diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, or lung cancer 20 to 50 years after being exposed to the asbestos fibers on board. Everyone who served aboard the USNS Taurus (T-AK-273) is highly encouraged to get regular medical checkups to confirm that the asbestos fibers in their bodies have not caused any harm.
760-621-6147