The USS Tutuila (ARG-4) was a Luzon-class internal combustion engine repair ship in the service of the US Navy during World War II. It was laid down on 11 August 1943 as SS Arthur P. Gorman at Bethlehem Steel Shipyard, Baltimore, Maryland, and launched on 12 September 1943. The vessel was converted to a repair ship at Maryland Drydock Co after the Navy acquired it and commissioned it as USS Tutuila on 8 April 1944 with CDR. George T. Boldizsar in command. The USS Tutuila was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater during World War II, serving as a floating advance base. It was awarded thirteen campaign stars for its service. In 1972 the USS Tutuila was struck from the Naval Register. Asbestos was the main ingredient onboard due to its insulating and fire-retardant properties. All Navy personnel was directly in contact with asbestos because of the mineral's extensive use throughout all types of Navy ships for decades. Those serving on Navy ships have come into contact with the material at some point during their career and should seek medical consultation urgently.
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