About this Unit
USS Safeguard (ARS-50) is a Safeguard-class salvage ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1985. Designed for rescue, salvage, and towing operations, Safeguard played a crucial role in supporting fleet readiness and maritime recovery missions. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous exercises and operations, including towing disabled vessels, recovering downed aircraft, and supporting humanitarian missions in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Safeguard was decommissioned in 2006 and later transferred to the Mexican Navy, continuing her legacy of maritime support under a new flag.
Historical Facts
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Commissioning and Class: USS Safeguard (ARS-50) is a Safeguard-class salvage ship, the lead ship of her class. She was commissioned on 17 August 1985, making her one of the newest vessels in the U.S. Navy's salvage fleet at the time.
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Primary Mission: The ship was designed for salvage, towing, and rescue operations. Her capabilities include firefighting, heavy lifting, and supporting diving operations, making her a vital asset for fleet support and emergency responses.
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Advanced Salvage Equipment: USS Safeguard was equipped with two 7.5-ton capacity cranes, a 21,000-gallon-per-minute firefighting system, and a four-point mooring system, allowing precise positioning during salvage operations.
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Helicopter Operations: The ship featured a large aft deck with a landing platform suitable for helicopter operations, enhancing her logistics and SAR (Search and Rescue) capabilities.
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Notable Operations: Safeguard participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting coalition forces by providing salvage and repair services in the Persian Gulf.
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International Cooperation: She played a role in joint training exercises and humanitarian missions with allied navies in the Pacific, strengthening relationships and interoperability.
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Assistance to Civilian Disasters: In 1992, Safeguard was deployed to the Philippines to aid in recovery and relief efforts after the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, using her heavy-lift and rescue capabilities.
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Decommissioning and Transfer: The ship was decommissioned on 26 September 2007 and subsequently transferred to the Mexican Navy, where she was renamed ARM Gral. Vicente Guerrero (A-302).
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Crew and Life Aboard: USS Safeguard typically carried a crew of around 100 officers and enlisted personnel, including specialized divers and salvage experts.
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Legacy of the Name: The name “Safeguard” reflects her mission to protect and recover Navy assets. She was the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name, continuing a tradition of maritime support and lifesaving operations.
