The USS Conestoga was an "ocean-going tug". The USN requires such vessels because large ships (naval and civilian) can become disabled at sea and require towing.
Prolly got caught in the infamous “Potato Patch”, shallow bottom around the Faralones, mostly between them and the shore. Pleasure sailors know to steer clear in stormy weather and at low tide when a short, steep breaking swell will separate the sheep from the dead.
Oh that makes sense, in case the big boys get disabled.
Thanks for the clarification and lesson Okie. :)