sentences:  "Phobos" (AK–129) was laid down as SS "Joseph H. Kibbey" under Maritime Commission contract by Todd Houston Shipbuilding Co., Houston, Texas, 25 September 1943; launched 6 November 1943; sponsored by Mrs. J. S. Burrows; and delivered to the Maritime Commission 17 November 1943 for operation by the American Export Lines.Following one cruise as a merchant vessel, SS "Joseph H. Kibbey" was acquired by the Army Transportation Service for use as a troop transport.While under conversion at Todd-Johnson Dry Docks, Inc., New Orleans, Louisiana, she was reassigned to the Navy and named "Phobos" 15 January 1944.