USS Reclaimer (ARS-42)

• World War II Service: USS Reclaimer (ARS-42) was commissioned in May 1945 and was part of the Diver-class rescue and salvage ships built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. • Post-War Pacific Operations: After World War II, Reclaimer served in the Pacific, assisting in salvage operations and supporting occupation forces in Japan. • Korean War Duties: The ship played a vital role in the Korean War, conducting salvage, towing, and rescue operations for the U.S. Navy and its allies. • Vietnam War Service: USS Reclaimer was actively involved in the Vietnam War, providing critical support in towing damaged vessels, recovering downed aircraft, and conducting salvage missions. • Notable Salvage Operations: Reclaimer participated in the recovery of several downed aircraft and vessels, including supporting the refloating of LSTs and other naval ships. • Support for NASA Missions: The ship was involved in recovery operations for NASA space missions, including supporting Apollo program recovery efforts in the Pacific. • Rescue Missions: Reclaimer was known for responding to maritime emergencies, including rescuing crews from sinking or disabled ships in the Pacific. • Decommissioning and Transfer: After decades of service, the USS Reclaimer was decommissioned in 1994 and later transferred to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Navy, where she served as ROCS Da Hu (ARS-552). • Multiple Awards: The ship and her crew received several commendations, including campaign and service medals for her roles in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. • Legacy: The history of USS Reclaimer exemplifies the vital, often unsung, work of naval salvage and rescue ships in both combat and peacetime operations, saving lives and enabling fleet readiness.