 On 25 May 1917, the U.S. Navy acquired her under a free lease from her owner, W. L. Suyden of Else Point, Long Island, New York, for use as a patrol boat during World War I.She was placed in service as USS "Nemesis" (SP-343) on 7 June 1917.Assigned to the 3rd Naval District, "Nemesis" served on patrol duties in the New York City area through the end of World War I.