Floating Drydocks Serve U.S. Fleet In Pacific -- Two battle-damaged U.S. Navy ships receive simultaneous attention in this huge ten-section floating drydock. Floating machine shops secured alongside provide additional facilities. The huge drydocks, towed in sections to Pacific combat areas, save damaged ships the long trip back to the U.S. for repairs. July 18, 1945. (Photo by U.S. Office of War Information Picture).