About this Unit
USS Deliver (ARS-23) was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1944. During World War II, she provided critical salvage and repair services in the Pacific Theater, supporting fleet operations at Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and post-war occupation duties in Japan. In the Korean War, Deliver assisted in salvage and towing operations along the Korean coast, further demonstrating her versatility. She continued her service through the Vietnam War, undertaking numerous rescue, salvage, and recovery missions until her decommissioning in 1979.
Historical Facts
• World War II Service: USS Deliver (ARS-23) was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship that served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
• Commissioning Date: The ship was launched on 25 September 1943 and commissioned into service on 15 May 1944.
• Damage Control Expertise: Deliver was equipped to perform salvage, firefighting, towing, and repair operations, often venturing into hazardous combat zones to assist damaged vessels.
• Okinawa Campaign: During the Battle of Okinawa, USS Deliver played a crucial role in rescuing and salvaging ships damaged by kamikaze attacks, frequently operating under fire.
• Typhoon Recovery: In September 1945, Deliver participated in recovery and salvage operations after Typhoon Louise struck Okinawa, helping to rescue and repair numerous stranded and sunken vessels.
• Postwar Operations: Following WWII, Deliver was involved in occupation duties in Japan, assisting with the clearing of harbors and navigation channels.
• Korean War Service: The ship was recommissioned for the Korean War and supported United Nations forces by providing salvage and repair functions throughout the conflict.
• Vietnam War Involvement: Later in her career, Deliver was deployed to support operations during the Vietnam War, demonstrating her versatility and enduring value.
• Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat support, Deliver also participated in humanitarian and peacetime salvage missions, including assisting distressed civilian vessels and disaster response.
• Decommissioning and Fate: USS Deliver was finally decommissioned on 31 August 1979, after an impressive service life spanning over three decades, and was later sold for scrap in 1982.
