Surface Forces: August 10, 2004

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The last World War II PT boat, fully equipped in wartime configuration, is up for sale. PT-728 was one of 800 PT (Patrol Torpedo) boats the United States built during World War II. This one was produced in 1945, and never saw combat. After the war, it spent several decades serving as a fishing boat in Canada. Bought by an American collector in 1994, PT-728 was returned to its wartime state. However, the twin .50 caliber machine-guns and 20mm cannon are not functional, and the four Mark VIII torpedoes are dummies. But at a glance, the 72 foot boat looks like a World War II photo come to life. The owner, Bill Bohmfalk, is auctioning it off on eBay. Floor bid is $500,000.