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History of USS Skylark (ASR-20)

USS Skylark (ASR-20) was a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship commissioned by the United States Navy in 1946. Built to support and rescue distressed submarines, Skylark served primarily in the Atlantic Fleet, participating in numerous training exercises and submarine rescue operations during the Cold War era. Notably, she was involved in the search and recovery efforts following the tragic loss of USS Thresher (SSN-593) in 1963. Skylark remained an essential asset for undersea rescue and salvage missions until her decommissioning in 1973.

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ABOUT USS Skylark (ASR-20)

  • Origins and Construction: USS Skylark (ASR-20) was originally laid down as a fleet tug, USS Yustaga (ATF-165), before being converted into a submarine rescue ship. She was launched on 28 October 1945 by Charleston Shipbuilding & Dry Dock Company.
  • World War II Timing: Although constructed during World War II, Skylark was completed too late to see action in the conflict, as the war ended before she was commissioned.
  • Conversion Role: Skylark was specifically outfitted as a submarine rescue ship, equipped with diving bells, recompression chambers, and specialized gear to assist distressed submarines and their crews.
  • Korean War Service: The Skylark served actively during the Korean War, providing support and rescue services to U.S. submarines operating in the Pacific Theater.
  • Cold War Missions: Throughout the Cold War, Skylark played a crucial role in submarine exercises, rescue operations, and as a recovery ship for various underwater activities and tests.
  • USS Thresher Tragedy: Skylark gained notoriety as the escort ship for USS Thresher (SSN-593) during its ill-fated sea trials in April 1963. She was the first ship to realize Thresher was lost and sent the famous message, “Submarine overdue and presumed missing.”
  • Search and Recovery Operations: Following the loss of USS Thresher, Skylark remained on station for several days, assisting in the search and subsequent investigation into the disaster.
  • Support for Space Missions: Skylark also participated in recovery operations for early U.S. space programs, including Project Mercury, showcasing her versatility beyond submarine rescue.
  • International Service: After being decommissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1973, Skylark was transferred to Brazil, where she served as Gastão Moutinho (K.10), continuing her legacy in a new navy.
  • Unique Legacy: USS Skylark (ASR-20) is remembered for her long service life, her role in one of the U.S. Navy’s most tragic submarine disasters, and her international career, making her one of the more storied submarine rescue ships in naval history.

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