USS Recovery (ARS-43)

• World War II Service: USS Recovery (ARS-43) was a Bolster-class rescue and salvage ship commissioned in 1946, just after World War II, and contributed to postwar recovery operations. • Name Significance: The ship's name, "Recovery," reflects its primary mission of salvaging and rescuing disabled vessels and equipment at sea. • Korean War Operations: Recovery played an active role during the Korean War, providing critical salvage and repair services to damaged United Nations naval vessels. • Cold War Support: During the Cold War, USS Recovery participated in various exercises and operations, enhancing US naval readiness and response capabilities. • NASA Space Missions: USS Recovery assisted in the recovery of NASA space capsules, including participation in the retrieval efforts for unmanned test flights during the early space age. • Arctic Missions: The ship was involved in Arctic operations, supporting scientific and military expeditions in challenging environments. • Humanitarian Aid: Recovery provided emergency assistance during maritime disasters, including firefighting and towing operations for stricken vessels. • Vietnam War Era: USS Recovery was active during the Vietnam War, contributing to salvage operations and supporting US Navy operations in the Western Pacific. • Decommissioning: After decades of service, Recovery was decommissioned in 1994, marking nearly 50 years of service to the US Navy. • Legacy: The ship's long and varied service record stands as a testament to the importance of salvage and rescue vessels in maintaining naval effectiveness and supporting both military and humanitarian missions worldwide.