USS Meadowlark (AMS-196) was a Falcon-class coastal minesweeper acquired by the United States Navy for clearing coastal minefields. Meadowlark was laid down on 18 May 1953 by Broward Marine Inc., Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and launched on 28 August 1954, sponsored by Mrs. Thomas E. Sheridan. Reclassified as Coastal Minesweeper MSC-196 on 7 February 1955, and commissioned on 10 May 1955, Lt. J. P. Cromwell in command.