The USS Eugene E. Elmore (DE-686) was a Rudderow-class destroyer escort launched on December 23, 1943. It was commissioned on February 4, 1944, under Lt. Comdr. G. L. Conkey’s command as DE-686 and served in the U.S. Navy for 2 years until it was decommissioned on May 31, 1946. During its activities, the ship carried a complement of 186 people on board and had its main missions in Norfolk, New Guinea, Hollandia, San Pedro, New York, Biak, Lingayen Gulf, and Casablanca. For the services brought to the country during World War II, the USS Eugene E. Elmore received 4 battle stars.
Because of its unique high-temperature resiliency and nearly indestructible qualities, asbestos was used to cover electrical wirings on board as well as steam pipes, engines, and boilers. Additionally, sleeping quarters onboard ships were also lined with asbestos, putting service members at risk of asbestos exposure while they slept. Because these ships were poorly ventilated, any disturbed asbestos fibers could continue to circulate through the ship and risk being inhaled by crew members.
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