 USS "Tills" was named in honor of Robert George Tills who was the first American naval officer killed in the defense of the Philippines.The ship was laid down on 23 June 1943 at San Pedro, California, by the Western Pipe and Steel Company; launched on 3 October 1943; sponsored by Miss Helen Irene Tills, the sister of the late Ensign Tills; and commissioned on 8 August 1944, Lt. Comdr.James L. Brooks, USNR, in command.