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SS Exchequer
Founded in 1938 by Robert Ingalls in Pascagoula, Mississippi, Ingalls Shipbuilding quickly became a growing force in American industry. In 1940, Ingalls launched and delivered SS Exchequer, the nation's first all-welded hull, helping usher in a new era of shipbuilding. It was later renamed USS Pocomoke (AV 9) and went on to receive two battle stars for service in the war in the Pacific. During 1940 and 1941, Ingalls launched three more cargo ships, and the venture was considered an early success.