The first ship to be named Ruff by the Navy, AMc-59, originally named Speaker, was laid down in 1940 by Martinolich Shipbuilding Co., San Diego, California; acquired by the Navy 31 December 1940; named Ruff and designated AMc-59 on 5 March 1941; launched 24 April 1941; sponsored by Miss Martha Jane Shown; and placed in service 31 October 1941, Ens. W. H. Roberts, USNR, in command.