About this Unit
USS Petrel (ASR-14) was a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1946. Designed to support submarine rescue and salvage operations, Petrel played a critical role during the Cold War, participating in numerous training exercises and real-world missions, including the search and recovery efforts following the loss of USS Thresher (SSN-593) in 1963. Throughout her service, she provided vital assistance to distressed submarines and contributed to advancements in deep-sea diving and rescue technology. USS Petrel was decommissioned in 1991 after more than four decades of dedicated service.
Historical Facts
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Commissioning and Purpose: USS Petrel (ASR-14) was commissioned on 24 September 1946 as a submarine rescue ship, designed to support and rescue distressed submarines and conduct deep-sea salvage operations.
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Chanticleer-class: Petrel was the third ship of the Chanticleer-class submarine rescue vessels, a class developed during World War II to enhance submarine safety and recovery capabilities.
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Namesake Legacy: She was the fourth U.S. Navy ship named “Petrel,” after the small, agile seabird, symbolizing speed and versatility in naval operations.
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Role in USS Thresher Disaster: In 1963, USS Petrel played a key role in the search and subsequent recovery operations after the loss of USS Thresher (SSN-593), one of the worst submarine disasters in U.S. history.
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Underwater Rescue Technology: Petrel was equipped with McCann Rescue Chambers and advanced diving equipment, enabling her to carry out complex deep-sea rescue missions.
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Operation Skyhook: In 1956, the Petrel participated in “Operation Skyhook,” supporting high-altitude balloon experiments for atmospheric research conducted by the Office of Naval Research.
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Support for Gemini Program: Petrel was part of the recovery force for NASA’s Gemini space program, ready to assist with astronaut and capsule recovery in the Atlantic.
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Salvage of USS Cochino: In August 1949, she assisted in the recovery efforts after the sinking of USS Cochino (SS-345) in the Barents Sea, earning commendations for her crew.
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Medal-Winning Crew: Throughout her service, Petrel’s crew received awards and commendations for their skill and bravery during perilous undersea rescue and salvage operations.
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Decommissioning and Legacy: USS Petrel was decommissioned in 1991 after over four decades of service. She was eventually scrapped, but her legacy endures in the traditions of submarine rescue and salvage in the U.S. Navy.
