Rock Island Bridge was part of the second optional order for 68 additional vessels placed by USSB with Submarine Boat Corp. on 16 November 1917.

[3] Upon acceptance by USSB the ship was allocated to Boston-based operators Roger & Webb for service to Low Countries and France.

After loading her cargo, Rock Island Bridge sailed out on February 20 on her maiden voyage bound for Antwerp and Rotterdam.

On March 5 in thick fog the ship went aground just west of Beachy Head, but was able to free herself without suffering any apparent damage and was instructed to proceed to Antwerp where she arrived next day.

The collision did not produce significant amount of damage, with the hull of Rock Island Bridge withstanding the impact only resulting in some plates being stove in.

Instead, Rock Island Bridge was offered and sold in May 1920 at auction in 'as-is' condition for £15,250 to All Seas Marine & Salvage Co. with the intention of raising and repairing the ship.

All attempts to pull her upright using tugs or cables attached to huge concrete blocks were unsuccessful and salvage operations were terminated.