USS Ardent (SP-680)

The first USS Ardent (SP-680) was a United States Navy patrol vessel and minesweeper in commission from 1917 to 1921.

[1] On 11 June 1917, the U.S. Navy purchased her from Raymond J. Anderson of Newport, Rhode Island,[1] for use as a section patrol boat and minesweeper during World War I.

Following her conversion, Ardent was assigned to the Mining Force of the 2nd Naval District in southern New England.

Ardent conducted patrol and minesweeping duties, and also was used for tending submarine nets in the Newport and Block Island sections for the duration of her World War I service.

[1] In 1919, following the end of the war, Ardent was reassigned to Submarine Base New London at Groton, Connecticut.

The submarine tender USS Fulton (Submarine Tender No. 1) is the large ship in this photograph taken at Submarine Base New London , Groton , Connecticut, during World War I. A motor launch is in the center foreground and USS Ardent (SP-680) is at right.
USS Ardent (SP-680) off Submarine Base New London , Groton , Connecticut, ca. 1918.