She was acquired by the U.S. Navy for use in World War II, and was assigned the task of transporting troops to and from battle areas.

Operating in dangerous Mediterranean waters on 12 November 1942, she was sunk after being struck by a German submarine’s torpedo at Fedala Bay, Morocco.

Departing Hampton Roads 24 October, she landed troops at Fedhala, French Morocco, on 8 November, and lay off the beach unloading her cargo with two lifeboats, the only boats remaining after the Naval Battle of Casablanca.

On 12 November she was torpedoed by U-130 commanded by Ernst Kals, who slipped past the escort screen to sink three transports.

Edward Rutledge's crew attempted to beach her but all power had been lost; she settled rapidly by the stern and sank with the loss of 15 men.