About this Unit
USS Preserver (ARS-8) was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1943. Throughout World War II, she provided vital salvage, towing, and rescue operations in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters, notably supporting the Normandy Invasion in 1944. After the war, Preserver continued her service, participating in peacetime operations and Cold War missions, including the recovery of sunken aircraft and submarines. Decommissioned in 1992, USS Preserver earned several commendations for her decades of dedicated and versatile service.
Historical Facts
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World War II Service: USS Preserver (ARS-8) was a Diver-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned in 1943. She served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II, supporting various naval operations.
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Normandy Invasion: Preserver played an important role during the D-Day landings (June 1944), conducting salvage, towing, and rescue operations off the coast of Normandy, France, helping to keep the invasion beaches clear.
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Salvage of Sunken Vessels: The ship was instrumental in salvaging sunken or damaged Allied ships, including the recovery and towing of landing craft and ships struck by mines or enemy fire.
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Operation Dragoon: Preserver participated in the Allied invasion of Southern France (Operation Dragoon) in August 1944, providing essential salvage and rescue services to support the landings.
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Post-War Service: After World War II, Preserver was involved in clearing harbors, removing wrecks, and assisting stranded ships in European waters before returning to the United States.
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Arctic Operations: In the early 1950s, Preserver participated in operations in the Arctic, supporting construction and supply efforts for early warning radar stations as part of the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line.
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Assistance During the Cold War: The ship continued to serve during the Cold War, providing salvage support along the East Coast of the United States and in the Caribbean, including assisting in the recovery of downed aircraft and sunken submarines.
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Rescue of USS Thresher: Preserver was part of the search and recovery efforts following the loss of the nuclear submarine USS Thresher (SSN-593) in 1963, helping to locate wreckage and support investigation efforts.
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Decorations and Awards: For her service in World War II and subsequent operations, Preserver earned multiple awards, including battle stars for her role in major amphibious campaigns.
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Longevity and Decommissioning: After over three decades of service, the USS Preserver was decommissioned in 1972, marking the end of a long and distinguished career supporting the United States Navy’s salvage and rescue operations.
