"Private Joe E. Mann" (AK–253) was laid down, under U.S. Maritime Commission contract, as "Owensboro Victory" (MCV hull 719) by the Permanente Metals Corporation, Yard #2, Richmond, California, 12 June 1945; launched 21 July 1945; sponsored by Mrs. Robert A. Nieman; and delivered to the Maritime Commission, thence to Coastwise Lines for operation, 27 August 1945.A month and a half after delivery, "Owensboro Victory" departed San Francisco, California, carrying cargo and passengers to occupied Japan.