USS Mataco (AT-86)

USS Mataco (AT-86)

USS Mataco (AT-86/ATF-86) was a Navajo-class fleet tug constructed for the United States Navy during World War II. Her purpose was to aid ships, usually by towing, on the high seas or in combat or post-combat areas, plus "other duties as assigned." She served in the Pacific Ocean and, after a successful career, her crews returned home proudly displaying five battle stars for World War II, four battle stars for the Korean War, and seven campaign stars for Vietnam War service.

Mataco was laid down on 27 June 1942 by United Engineering Co., San Francisco, California; launched on 14 October 1942, sponsored by Miss Evelyn B. Piper; and commissioned on 29 May 1943, Lt. William G. Baker in command.