America's first cement ocean-going vessel "Faith" was built in a Redwood City shipyard and launched from the port there in 1918.  It never saw military action as the Armistice was signed a few months later (Redwood City Public Library).  (Coincidentally, we are thinking of holding our fall conference in Redwood City, and perhaps locating our offices there as well).

Patri Friedman's Trip Report
Offshore Technology Conference
Houston, Texas
May 6-7, 2008.