The USS Laertes (AR-20) was a repair ship belonging to the Xanthus-class that was used by the US Navy after World War II. The ship was originally built as the Liberty Ship SS Dutiful by Bethlehem-Fairfield Shipyard in August 1944. During its short World War II service, the ship operated in the Eniwetok Atoll, Pacific Ocean, repairing damaged ships. The USS Laertes was recommissioned in December 1951 to be used once again during the Korean War. The ship was decommissioned in February 1954 and placed in the reserve fleet at San Diego. It was eventually sold for scrapping to Zidell Explorations in July 1972. For its service during the Korean War, the USS Laertes received two battle stars. One of the greatest dangers of asbestos is that it is very hard to detect. Asbestos is odorless and tasteless, and cannot be observed with the naked eye. This makes it hard to detect when someone is being exposed to asbestos. If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer, bronchial cancer, mesothelioma, or you have lost a loved one to an asbestos-related illness, you have the right to seek compensation from those responsible for your situation. While monetary compensation cannot alleviate your pain, it will ease the burden of financial concerns.