Historical Narrative

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Cape Girardeau is a break-bulk cargo ship built for American Mail Line, Ltd. in 1968 as Alaskan Mail.  The vessel was later sold to American President Lines and renamed President Adams. 

The Maritime Administration purchased the vessel in 1988 and renamed it Cape Girardeau.  While part of the Ready Reserve Force, Cape Girardeau was part of the flotilla that engaged in cargo operations during Operation DESERT STORM. 

In October 2008 Cape Girardeau, already anchored in the Suisun Bay Reserve Fleet, was downgraded to the National Defense Reserve Fleet retention program where it is currently in emergency sealift status.

Vessel Name History

1968 - 1978: Alaskan Mail
1978 - 1988: President Adams
1988 - present: Cape Girardeau

Vessel Name History

ALASKAN MAIL

CAPE GIRARDEAU