USS Gypsum Queen (SP-430)

USS Gypsum Queen (SP-430) was a tugboat acquired by the United States Navy during World War I. She was assigned to the French coast as a minesweeper, as well as a tugboat to provide assistance to disabled Allied ships. Performing this dangerous work, Gypsum Queen struck a rock near Brest, France, and sunk, with 15 of her crew lost.

Constructed in New Jersey
Gypsum Queen — a sea-going tug — was built by Dialogue & Company, Camden, New Jersey in 1890, acquired from her owners, J. B. King Transportation Co. of New York City in September 1917; and commissioned on 4 December 1917 at New York City.

World War I service
Turned over to the 3d Naval District, Gypsum Queen was fitted out for overseas service at New York Navy Yard and subsequently served in French ports as a towing vessel and a minesweeper.

Gypsum Queen sunk at sea
While returning from rendering assistance to minesweepers foundering off the coast of France, Gypsum Queen struck a rock near Armen Light House off Brest on 28 April 1919 and sank with a loss of 2 officers and 13 men.