USS Conserver (ARS-39)

• Commissioning and Class: USS Conserver (ARS-39) was a Bolster-class rescue and salvage ship, commissioned into the United States Navy on 9 May 1945. • World War II Service: Conserver was commissioned too late to see combat in World War II but was active in post-war occupation duties in the Pacific, including operations in Okinawa and Sasebo, Japan. • Korean War Operations: The ship played a significant role in the Korean War, providing vital salvage, towing, and rescue services for damaged vessels and clearing harbors for United Nations forces. • Vietnam War Support: Conserver participated in multiple deployments in support of the Vietnam War, assisting with salvage operations, harbor clearances, and recovering downed aircraft. • Operation Dominic: In 1962, Conserver supported Operation Dominic, a series of nuclear tests conducted by the United States in the Pacific Ocean, providing recovery and support services. • Notable Salvage Missions: One of Conserver’s most famous salvage operations was the recovery of the bow of the USS Frank E. Evans (DD-754) after it was cut in half by HMAS Melbourne in 1969. • Hawaiian Homeport: For much of her career, USS Conserver was homeported at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, conducting salvage and towing operations across the Pacific. • Humanitarian Assistance: The ship was involved in disaster relief operations, including helping with typhoon recovery efforts and rescuing stranded civilians in the Pacific region. • Decommissioning: USS Conserver was decommissioned on 1 April 1994, after nearly 49 years of service to the US Navy. • Award History: Over her service life, Conserver earned numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation, multiple campaign medals for Korea and Vietnam, and several Navy “E” Ribbons for excellence.