About this Unit
USS Bolster (ARS-38) was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1945. Built in Everett, Washington, she served during the final months of World War II, providing salvage, towing, and repair services in the Pacific Theater. Bolster continued her service through the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supporting naval operations by assisting damaged vessels and clearing harbors. After decades of distinguished service, she was decommissioned in 1994 and later became a museum ship in California.
Historical Facts
• Launch and Commissioning: USS Bolster (ARS-38) was launched on 23 December 1944 and commissioned on 1 May 1945. She was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship built by Basalt Rock Company in Napa, California.
• World War II Service: Although commissioned late in World War II, Bolster provided crucial salvage and repair support in the Pacific theater, including at Okinawa during the climactic months of the war.
• Typhoon Louise Rescue Operations: In October 1945, Bolster played a key role after Typhoon Louise struck Okinawa, assisting in salvage and rescue efforts for dozens of damaged or stranded ships and aiding in the recovery of the harbor.
• Korean War Missions: Bolster served in the Korean War, conducting salvage, towing, and firefighting operations. She supported the Inchon amphibious landings in September 1950, helping clear wrecks from landing areas.
• Vietnam War Involvement: The ship operated extensively off Vietnam, providing salvage, repair, and diving services to the U.S. Navy and its allies, including during the Tet Offensive in 1968.
• Helicopter Crash Recovery: In 1973, Bolster was involved in recovering a downed U.S. Army helicopter from the waters off Hawaii, showcasing her versatile salvage and diving capabilities.
• Rescue of USS Frank Knox: In 1965, Bolster played a pivotal role in refloating the destroyer USS Frank Knox (DDR-742) after it ran aground on Pratas Reef in the South China Sea, a complex and hazardous operation.
• Long Service Life: Bolster served the U.S. Navy for over 49 years, from 1945 until her decommissioning in 1994, making her one of the longest-serving ships of her class.
• Historic Preservation: After decommissioning, USS Bolster was designated for donation as a museum ship. She is now preserved at Suisun Bay, California, as part of the Suisun City Historic Waterfront District.
• Awards and Honors: Throughout her service, Bolster earned numerous campaign and service medals, including battle stars for World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War operations, reflecting her enduring contributions to U.S. naval history.
