USS President Hayes (APA-20) was a President Jackson-class attack transport that saw service with the US Navy in World War II. President Hayes was laid down as MC Hull No. 55 by the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Co. 26 December 1939; launched 4 October 1940; turned over to American President Lines 20 February 1941; acquired by the Navy 7 July 1941; designated AP–39; and commissioned 15 December 1941, Commander F. W. Benson in command. The ship was redesignated an attack transport (APA-20) on 1 February 1943.