USS Heron (AM-10) was a Lapwing-class minesweeper acquired by the United States Navy for the dangerous task of removing mines from minefields laid in the water to prevent ships from passing.

Heron was launched 18 May 1918 by the Standard Shipbuilding Co.; sponsored by Miss Astrid Rundquist, daughter of the minesweeper's prospective commanding officer; and commissioned 30 October 1918.

She operated principally in Chinese and Philippine waters, performing such diverse tasks as patrol, survey, target-towing, and plane-tending in addition to tactical maneuvers.

Heron was reclassified AVP-2 on 22 January 1936 and continued to play an important role in protecting American citizens and interests in the Far East.

When the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor thrust America into war on 7 December 1941, Heron (Lt. William L. Kabler) was stationed in Port Ciego, Philippines.

Upon hearing that Peary (DD-226) had been bombed and was in need of help, she got underway 29 December with oil and spare parts intending to rendezvous with the stricken destroyer at Ternate.

During that night the fires were extinguished; the forward hold was pumped out to bring the ship back to an even keel; and the 3-inch gun was repaired.

Steaming to the Solomons 1 September, Heron served as tender for Patrol Squadron 101, which was engaged in search and rescue work as the Pacific Ocean campaign moved into high gear.

When the U.S. Navy brought MacArthur back to the Philippines in the momentous Leyte campaign, Heron was there, reaching San Pedro Bay on 21 November.

In the thick of almost continuous enemy air attacks, Heron spent over a month in the Philippines tending seaplanes before returning to New Guinea for repairs.

She decommissioned at Subic Bay, Philippines on 12 February 1946 and was transferred to the State Department (Foreign Liquidation Commission) in July 1947 for disposal.