The USS Bolster (ARS 38) was a rescue and salvage ship of the Bolster class, constructed during World War II. Built by the Basalt Rock Company in Napa, California, the keel was laid on June 20, 1944, and the vessel was launched on September 23, 1944. The USS Bolster officially joined the United States Navy on May 1, 1945.
The construction of the USS Bolster was part of a strategic initiative to enhance the Navy's capabilities in rescue and salvage operations, aimed at recovering damaged ships and ensuring the safety of naval personnel. The name "Bolster," which signifies support and reinforcement, aptly reflects its mission to assist and salvage vessels. This designation underscored the ship's role in providing essential services, including firefighting, dewatering, and towing operations, thereby strengthening the Navy's preparedness and resilience in challenging circumstances.
Notable characteristics of the USS Bolster included its robust design and specialized equipment tailored for salvage tasks. Equipped with heavy-duty winches, cranes, and diving gear, the ship was capable of conducting repairs and recoveries. Bolster-class vessels were constructed with reinforced hulls to withstand the demands of salvage operations, making them valuable assets within the Navy's fleet.
The USS Bolster's impact on the U.S. Navy is significant, demonstrating the vital role of salvage and rescue vessels in maintaining operational effectiveness. Throughout its service, the USS Bolster participated in missions that included war recovery efforts and support during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Its contributions emphasized the importance of salvage ships in ensuring the efficiency and safety of the Navy's operations.
As part of the Bolster class of rescue and salvage ships, the USS Bolster was specifically designed to meet the Navy's requirements for support vessels. These ships were primarily tasked with conducting salvage operations, such as rescuing stranded or damaged vessels, recovering equipment, and performing emergency repairs. The Bolster class played a critical role in supporting the Navy's operational needs by delivering essential services that enabled other naval vessels to fulfill their missions.
The commissioning date of May 1, 1945, marked the beginning of the USS Bolster's service career. Launched at a pivotal moment, the ship quickly became involved in the concluding phases of World War II, actively contributing to war reconstruction efforts. This significant milestone highlighted the Navy's commitment to maintaining an adaptable fleet, prepared to undertake a wide range of tasks from combat assistance to post-war rebuilding initiatives.
USS Bolster ARS-38: A Deep Dive into the Structure, Technology, and Armament of a Naval Workhorse
The USS Bolster (ARS 38) served as a rescue and salvage vessel of the Bolster class, designed to endure the challenges associated with salvage missions. Constructed from high-strength steel, the ship's hull provided the resilience necessary for tasks such as towing, firefighting, and refloating stranded vessels. Measuring 213 feet in length, 39 feet in width, and with a draft of 14 feet, the Bolster was capable of navigating various maritime conditions. Its superstructure was specifically designed to accommodate salvage gear and provide adequate workspace for the crew to carry out their duties effectively and safely.
In terms of technology, the USS Bolster was equipped with advanced salvage and rescue equipment for its era. It featured winches and cranes capable of lifting heavy loads, making it well-suited for recovering sunken ships and bulky debris. Additionally, the vessel was outfitted with diving gear, including decompression chambers and air compressors, to support deep-sea diving operations. A range of navigation and communication instruments, such as radar and sonar systems, enabled the ship to locate and assess salvage sites effectively. These technological advancements rendered the USS Bolster a versatile asset within the Navy.
Regarding armament, the USS Bolster was equipped with weaponry that reflected its primary role as a rescue and salvage vessel rather than a combat ship. It carried two 40mm aircraft guns on its deck, providing basic defense against aerial threats, which were operated by the crew during operations in contested environments. The ship also housed .50 caliber machine guns to defend against surface threats. While not heavily armed, these weapons ensured that the vessel and its crew maintained a degree of protection during salvage missions in potentially hostile waters.
The defensive capabilities of the USS Bolster were further enhanced by its design, which included hull sections that improved survivability in the event of damage. This design allowed the crew to contain flooding, thereby maintaining the ship's buoyancy and stability. Moreover, the Bolster was equipped with firefighting systems, such as water cannons and foam dispensers, to manage onboard fires and assist in firefighting efforts on other vessels. Collectively, the defensive features of the USS Bolster, alongside its armament, enabled it to conduct salvage and rescue operations successfully in challenging and potentially hazardous conditions.
USS Bolster ARS-38 Crew Member Reports of Time Aboard
The USS Bolster (ARS-38) holds a treasure trove of memories for its former crew members, spanning decades of service and countless adventures. The guestbook entries from these sailors paint a vivid picture of life aboard this storied vessel, highlighting both the camaraderie and the challenges they faced.
**Darrell Barber** served as a Machinist's Mate First Class and Diver (MM1/DV) in 1974. He fondly recalls his time on the Bolster and its sister ship, the Safeguard, enjoying the camaraderie and the fun times in Hawaii and on various cruises. His naval career ended with a medical retirement in 1983, and he now resides in Las Vegas.
**Randy Boggess**, a Commissaryman Second Class (CS2) in 1966, started in the deck division before transferring to supply. He remembers the hard work and the rewarding liberty time, which made his tenure on the Bolster memorable.
**Larry Bowers**, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1971, reminisces about a great WestPac cruise that took him to Guam, Subic Bay, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Japan. He also notes the Bolster's involvement in Operation Wigwam, a 1955 nuclear bomb test off San Diego, which later saw many participants reporting cancer.
**Mark Bullis**, an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM3) in 1981, describes his time on the Bolster as a mix of the best and worst experiences, with vivid memories of cockroach infestations and the lively liberty at Subic Bay.
**Gary Carnot**, a Gunner's Mate First Class and Diver (GMG1/DV) in 1974, found his time on the Bolster generally enjoyable despite the hard work. He recalls his striker, 'Nemo,' and mentions a motorcycle accident that made the Bolster his last duty station before becoming a school teacher.
**Bob Collins**, an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM3) in 1979, shares memories of both the best and worst days, including a mysterious night when the work boat started itself. He is looking to reconnect with former shipmates GM3 Heath and EM2 Devitt.
**Ben Crim**, an Engineman Second Class (EN2BV) in 1952, spent his entire Navy career on the Bolster, participating in salvage dives off Korea and Japan, primarily along the Korean coast.
**Bradley Cunningham**, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1974, recalls his first ship experience, becoming a Shellback, and the great times he had as part of the Bolster crew.
**Scott David**, an Engineman Second Class (EN2) in 1979, fondly remembers the great times in Hawaii, two WestPac cruises, and earning dive qualifications.
**Adam De Merit**, a Gunner's Mate Third Class (GMG3) in 1984, served with the reserve component and enjoyed salvage training in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
**Paul Dennert**, an Electrician's Mate Second Class (EM2) in 1977, recounts the slow journey towing three barges across the Pacific and celebrating his best birthday ever in the Philippines.
**Al Doka**, an E-5 in 1980, had a lot of fun and great times with the crew during his four years on the Bolster.
**Larry Dolan**, an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM3) in 1955, worked in the Electric Shop and cherishes the two-year experience, the friendships made, and the personal growth he experienced.
**Doc Douglas Roberson**, a Hospital Corpsman First Class (HM1(SW/DV)) in 1987, describes his tour on the Bolster as the best ship tour he ever had, highlighting the great guys he served with.
**Kevin Dozier**, a Seaman in 1993, had a great time on his first ship and even met his future brother-in-law there.
**Mark Duncan**, a Boatswain's Mate Third Class (BM3) in 1980, reflects on the adventure and the family-like bond he shared with his shipmates.
**Jim Engen**, an Interior Communications Electrician Third Class (IC3(DV)) in 1986, calls his time on the Bolster the most unforgettable of his life, expressing gratitude to his mentors and shipmates.
**Rick English**, an Engineman Third Class (EN3) in 1980, recalls great times on WestPac cruises and plans to reunite with former shipmates for another "Bellows Blowout."
**Joseph Fesi**, an Electrician's Mate Fireman (EMFN) in 1976, remembers the great guys aboard and the awesome times in Oahu.
**Gregory Fiebing**, an Electronics Technician Third Class (ET3) in 1959, learned a lot quickly during a WestPac tour and cherishes the experience.
**Victor Garza**, an Engineman Fourth Class (E-4) in 1972, is looking for a shipmate named Taberna and recalls their time in Haiphong Harbor during Operation End Sweep.
**James Givens**, a Quartermaster Second Class (QM2) in 1951, had a great time with a good crew and buddies, working on the bridge with QM1 Burnsides.
**Richard Greenwood**, a Radioman (RM) in 1965, enjoyed a WestPac cruise, swimming off the fantail, and towing an LST from Vietnam to Japan through a typhoon.
**John Haase**, a Boatswain's Mate Second Class Diver (BSMDV2) in 1957, became a diver and retrieved a shot-down plane off Korea. He has written and published his story about a nuclear test cover-up.
**Neil Hansen**, a Lieutenant (LT) in 1980, served as Commo and Ops after completing dive school and SWOS. He fondly remembers his days and shipmates on the Bolster.
**Shannon Harris**, an Electrician's Mate Third Class and Diver (EM3/DV) in 1900, describes the ship as a nightmare but acknowledges the strong friendships formed during his time there.
**John Hollobaugh**, a Radioman Third Class (RM3) in 1979, recalls becoming a Shellback on his first WestPac and enjoying the parties at Bellows Beach.
**Roy Jernigan**, a Hull Technician Third Class and Diver Second Class (HT3/DIVER SECOND CLASS) in 1983, spent a few months on the Bolster and met some cool people.
**Casey Jones**, a Quartermaster Second Class (QM2) in 1978, remembers the fun times on WestPac and is looking to reconnect with old crew members.
**Dan Joyce**, an Engineman Third Class (EN3) in 1986, served in the main propulsion engine room and values the work ethic he developed on the Bolster.
**Harold Leininger**, a Seaman in 1962, worked hard in the 1st division before attending Radioman's school and appreciates the learning experience.
**John Lejeune**, an Engineman Fireman (ENFN) in 1959, recalls good liberties and crossing the equator, hoping to reconnect with old shipmates.
**Paul Letendre**, an Engineman Petty Officer Third Class (ENGINEMAN PO3) in 1971, enjoyed a WestPac cruise and made many friends, including his buddy ENFN Fernando Hernandez.
**Aaron Levitt**, a Radioman Second Class (RM2(SW)) in 1992, was part of the decommissioning crew and cherishes the good times and the crew.
**Robert Loera**, a Storekeeper Second Class (SK2) in 1980, looks back on his time on the Bolster as some of the best days of his life and hopes to reconnect with old friends.
**Anthony Ludlow**, a Yeoman First Class (YN1) in 1978, had a great time aboard and considers the crew like family, hoping to get in touch with old buddies.
**Charles Malinowski**, an Electrician's Mate First Class (EM1 (SS)) in 1990, recalls a significant moment when a fellow sailor shared the Gospel with him, leading to his faith conversion.
**Bm3 Jerry Melady**, a Boatswain's Mate Third Class (BM 3) in 1983, has lifelong memories of the hard-working ship and misses his shipmates.
**Bryce Miller**, a Commissaryman Second Class (CS 2) in 1965, enjoyed good liberty and had a lot of respect for the skipper, LT. Commander Donald L. Alldredge.
**Clifford Mills**, a Commissaryman Third Class (CS3) in 1960, has fond memories of the cruises and WestPac tours, including a trip to Brisbane, Australia.
**Charles Neff**, a Boatswain's Mate Third Class and Diver (BM3 (DV)) in 1964, made two WestPac trips and had many good friends on board.
**Charles Niemoeller**, a Gunner's Mate Third Class and Diver (GMG3/DV2) in 1973, recalls the diverse friendships and the recreational dives, especially at Kapingamarangi Atoll.
**John Pascale**, an Electrician's Mate Fireman to Third Class (EMFA-EM3) in 1955, participated in Operation Wigwam and WestPac cruises, hoping to reconnect with old timers.
**Calvin Pletzer**, a Signalman Second Class (SM2) in 1967, had great times aboard and hopes to catch up with old shipmates.
**Eloy Ramirez**, a Damage Controlman Third Class (DC3) in 1968, came aboard at Pearl and retired from the USNR in 1992, also serving in the Fire Department and State Government.
**Rene Reina**, an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM 3) in 1977, remembers bar room brawls, snorkeling, body surfing, and scuba diving, and hopes to reconnect with old friends.
**Dale Richardson**, an Electrician's Mate Third Class and diver (EM3) in 1968, had a great experience and has only kept in touch with one person since leaving.
**Michael Smith**, an Engineman Second Class (EN2) in 1987, had the time of his life and sends a shout-out to his friends, hoping to reconnect.
**Dan Speights**, a Boatswain's Mate Third Class (BM 3) in 1961, learned to be a sailor on the Bolster and remembers liberties with friends and a trip to Australia.
**Bradley Starks**, an Engineman Second Class (EN2) in 1987, misses his shipmates and regrets leaving the Navy after making E-6.
**Jim Terpenning**, an Operations Specialist Second Class to Chief (OS2-OSC) in 1979, served on five ships and considers the Bolster the best in every respect.
**Don Triggs**, a Personnelman Third Class (PN3) in 1957, recalls the great ship and crew, surviving multiple typhoons, and participating in atomic testing in 1958.
**Scott Trogdon** served in 1977 and remembers the Bolster as his first ship and the best memories of his service time.
**Marvin Walters**, a Quartermaster Second Class (QM2) in 1944, participated in the Philippine Liberation before being assigned to the Bolster.
**Weldon Wright**, an Engineman Second Class (EN2) in 1986, had a great time on his first ship and still remembers the bilge and s/system, despite hating to stow the tow cables.
These memories collectively highlight the USS Bolster's role as a vessel of hard work, adventure, and deep camaraderie. The ship's history is enriched by the diverse experiences of its crew, from salvage operations and WestPac cruises to personal growth and lifelong friendships.
USS Bolster ARS-38: Evolution of a Naval Workhorse and Its Enduring Legacy
The USS Bolster (ARS 38) underwent significant enhancements throughout its service tenure, ensuring its continued importance as a valuable asset to the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945, the vessel was initially equipped with advanced salvage and rescue equipment for its time. However, as technology evolved, so too did the capabilities of the Bolster. In the 1950s, the ship underwent renovations that included the installation of robust winches and cranes, thereby enhancing its capacity to manage larger and more complex salvage operations. Further upgrades in the 1960s and 1970s involved the incorporation of advanced diving systems and improved navigation tools, enabling the Bolster to operate with greater efficiency and safety across various maritime environments.
The mission capabilities of the USS Bolster were both varied and adaptable, reflecting the changing requirements of the U.S. Navy. Primarily designed for salvage and rescue missions, the Bolster was well-equipped to handle a range of tasks, including towing vessels and conducting deep-sea diving operations. Its sturdy construction and specialized equipment made it particularly proficient in addressing emergency situations, such as refloating grounded ships and recovering damaged vessels. Additionally, the Bolster was capable of providing vital assistance services, including firefighting, dewatering, and repairing hull breaches, which proved essential in both peacetime and wartime scenarios.
Throughout its service, the USS Bolster played a crucial role in enhancing the U.S. Navy fleet, often serving a pivotal function in various naval missions. During the Korean War, the Bolster was instrumental in salvaging damaged ships, ensuring that valuable naval assets were restored to service. In the Vietnam War, its capabilities were again put to the test as it assisted in recovering and repairing vessels damaged in combat. The ship's performance under pressure in challenging environments earned it accolades and solidified its reputation as a dependable and indispensable component of the Navy's logistical and operational framework.
The legacy of the USS Bolster extends beyond its contributions to the fleet. The continuous upgrades and modifications throughout its years of service exemplify the Navy's commitment to maintaining a capable force. The rich history of the Bolster underscores the importance of salvage and rescue operations as integral components of naval strategy, highlighting their vital role in ensuring that the fleet remains operationally ready and resilient. The knowledge gained and advancements made during the Bolster's service have influenced the planning and functioning of naval support ships, thereby ensuring that the U.S. Navy is well-prepared to face future challenges.
USS Bolster ARS-38: A Legacy of Valor and Service on the High Seas
The USS Bolster (ARS 38) boasts a history rich in missions and significant contributions to key conflicts. Launched in 1945, the Bolster was a rescue and salvage ship of the Bolster class that played a vital role in supporting naval operations. During World War II, it was stationed in the Pacific Theater, where it was instrumental in salvage operations, ensuring that damaged ships could be repaired and returned to service. The ship's capabilities were particularly tested following the Battle of Okinawa, where it aided in the recovery and repair of damaged vessels.
In the Korean War, the USS Bolster again demonstrated its worth. Operating off the Korean Peninsula, it participated in salvage missions, including the recovery of downed aircraft and the repair of battle-damaged ships. The crew of the Bolster worked tirelessly under challenging conditions, often facing enemy fire while executing their duties. Their dedication was crucial in maintaining the operational readiness of United Nations forces, thereby contributing significantly to the war effort.
During the Vietnam War, the USS Bolster continued its tradition of service. The ship was deployed in the waters near Vietnam, where it provided salvage and repair services to the U.S. Navy and its allies. Its tasks included recovering sunken vessels, clearing navigational hazards, and repairing battle-damaged ships. The crew exhibited remarkable skill and courage, often operating in hostile environments, ensuring the success of various missions.
Throughout its service, the USS Bolster earned numerous accolades and commendations that reflected both the ship's exceptional performance and the dedication of its crew. It received battle stars for its service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Additionally, the ship was honored with the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for its exemplary service. These recognitions underscore the impact of the USS Bolster on U.S. naval operations and highlight its enduring reputation for excellence.
The illustrious career of the USS Bolster stands as a significant chapter in U.S. Navy history, illustrating the bravery, expertise, and commitment of its sailors.
USS Bolster ARS-38 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Bolster Class Rescue and Salvage Ship |
| Commissioned | May 1, 1945 |
| Displacement | 2,048 tons |
| Length | 213.5 feet |
| Beam | 43 feet |
| Draft | 13.8 feet |
| Speed | 16 knots |
| Complement | 7 Officers 113 Enlisted |