The USS Bushnell and other **submarine tenders** served a vital role in supporting the US Navy’s submarine force. Their duties included providing forward logistics support, such as replenishing torpedoes, food, and other essential supplies to submarines deployed at sea or in forward operating locations. They also offered intermediate-level maintenance and repair services, allowing submarines to remain operational for longer periods without returning to a major shipyard. Additionally, submarine tenders provided berthing and messing facilities for submarine crews undergoing repairs or refits, acting as a floating support base for the “silent service.”