53 | GROMMET REEFER | 2243 | Launched as KENNETH E GRUENNERT of the C1-M-AV1 type, completed 9 Dec 1944, renamed GROMMET REEFER 1945 and redesignated R1-M-AV3. Delivered to commercial operator at New Orleans 31 May 1945. To Army 23 Sep 1948. To MSTS 1 Mar 1950. Heavy seas and hight winds caused her to drag anchor, go aground, and later break in half near Leghorn, Italy, on 15 December 1952. Bow raised followed by stern, declared constructive total loss 18 Mar 1953, sold 4 Jun 1953, to MA and sale completed 23 Jul 1953. |