USS Killdeer (AMc-21) was a unique coastal minesweeper acquired by the U.S. Navy for the dangerous task of removing mines from minefields laid in the water to prevent ships from passing. Killdeer was originally built as a purse seiner in 1930 by Al Larson Boat Building, Los Angeles, California, with the name of Vindicator; rebuilt in 1940 by Harbor Boat Works, San Pedro, California; acquired by the Navy from her owner, Mr. Martin Trutanich, 8 November 1940; and placed in service the same day as Killdeer.