Genesee sailed from Philadelphia 20 November 1917 and, after joining a convoy at New London, reached Queenstown, Ireland, 27 January 1918.

Until the end of World War I she operated in the Bremerhaven-Queenstown areas patrolling, towing, and serving as standby for deep sea rescue work.

She provided tug services and aid to stricken ships and finally got underway 30 September for a 7-month tour of duty off Spalato, Dalmatia, and in Castella Bay.

Next assigned to the Far East, Genesee arrived Cavite, Luzon, 7 September 1920 for permanent duty on the Asiatic Station.

Subsequently she operated as a tug, a ferry, and a target tow in the Philippines until she was scuttled at Corregidor 5 May 1942 to avoid capture.