USS Chanticleer ASR-7
The USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) was a key player in the U.S. Navy, built with care and purpose during a time when naval strength was crucial. Her keel was laid on April 1, 1942, at the Moore Dry Dock Company in Oakland, California. This shipyard was known for its efficiency and quality, which was vital during World War II when the demand for naval vessels was high. The Chanticleer was launched on October 29, 1942, and officially commissioned on December 20, 1943, marking the start of her service.
Named after the Chanticleer, a rooster from the fables of Reynard the Fox, the ship symbolized vigilance and readiness. This was a fitting name for a vessel designed to support and rescue submarines, as the Chanticleer had to be ever-watchful and prepared to assist when needed. The name also carried a sense of tradition and pride, reflecting the Navy's practice of giving meaningful names to its ships.
The USS Chanticleer was built for submarine rescue and salvage operations. She had specialized diving and salvage equipment, including recompression chambers and heavy-duty winches. A large crane on board could lift substantial weights, essential for recovering sunken submarines and other underwater objects. These features made the Chanticleer a versatile and indispensable tool in the Navy's arsenal, capable of performing a wide range of underwater tasks.
The legacy of the USS Chanticleer in the Navy is marked by her significant contributions to submarine rescue and salvage operations. Throughout her service, she participated in numerous missions that showcased her capabilities and the skill of her crew. The Chanticleer's operations weren't limited to wartime efforts; she also played a crucial role in peacetime activities, including training exercises and support missions. Her presence ensured that the Navy's submarine fleet could operate with the confidence that help was always available if needed.
The USS Chanticleer was part of the Chanticleer-class of submarine rescue ships, designed to enhance the Navy's ability to conduct underwater rescue and salvage missions. The primary purpose of these ships was to provide immediate assistance to distressed submarines, ensuring the safety of their crews and the recovery of valuable assets. The Chanticleer-class ships were a testament to the Navy's commitment to the welfare of its submariners and the importance of maintaining a capable and ready rescue force.
Commissioned on December 20, 1943, the USS Chanticleer quickly proved her worth in the Navy's fleet. Her commissioning marked the beginning of a distinguished career that spanned several decades. During her service, the Chanticleer was involved in various operations, from World War II missions to Cold War-era exercises. Her ability to adapt to changing technologies and mission requirements underscored the ship's enduring value to the Navy. The Chanticleer's commissioning wasn't just the start of a single ship's journey but a significant enhancement of the Navy's overall operational capabilities.
USS Chanticleer ASR-7: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) was a submarine rescue ship that played a vital role in the U.S. Navy's underwater operations. It was built to handle the pressures of deep-sea missions. At about 251 feet long, with a beam of 42 feet and a draft of 14 feet, it was just the right size to carry all the gear and crew needed for its specialized tasks. The Chanticleer had a large deck area for deploying and recovering submersibles and diving bells, crucial for submarine rescues. Its superstructure supported heavy lifting gear like cranes and winches, essential for managing the heavy loads involved in deep-sea rescues.
The Chanticleer was equipped with cutting-edge technology for its time. It had advanced sonar systems to detect and locate submarines in distress, which was key to its mission. These systems helped the crew find sunken or disabled submarines quickly. The ship also had sophisticated communication systems to stay in touch with both the distressed submarine and other rescue vessels, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. Onboard decompression chambers and medical facilities were ready to treat rescued submariners, underscoring its role as a comprehensive rescue platform.
When it came to armament, the USS Chanticleer was lightly armed compared to other naval ships. Its main job was rescue and support, not combat. Still, it had some defensive weapons to protect itself and its crew. It carried a pair of 20mm anti-aircraft guns for basic defense against aerial threats. The crew also had small arms, like rifles and pistols, to fend off potential boarding attempts. This minimal armament allowed more space and resources for rescue and support equipment, aligning with its primary mission.
The Chanticleer's weaponry was practical for its specific role. The 20mm anti-aircraft guns were mounted on the deck, giving a clear line of sight to engage enemy aircraft. These manually operated guns required skilled gunners to effectively target and neutralize threats. The ship's small arms were stored securely, ready for use if needed. While not a frontline combat vessel, its limited weaponry ensured it could defend itself in hostile environments, allowing it to carry out its vital rescue missions without undue risk. This balance between minimal armament and advanced rescue technology made the USS Chanticleer a unique and essential asset to the U.S. Navy's fleet.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span several decades, from the ship's early years in the 1940s to its decommissioning in the early 1970s. The stories reflect a mix of camaraderie, adventure, and the unique experiences that come with life aboard a naval vessel.
**Early Years and Post-War Era:** William Alexander's son recalls his father's service in 1946, sharing a treasured photograph of sailors at the Zund-Za Bar, though the identities of the other men remain unknown. Edward LeJeune's son also reminisces about his father's tales of Key West and Havana, highlighting the liberty and leisure moments that balanced the rigors of naval duty. Rowland Mahany's father, who served in 1943, is still eager to reconnect with shipmates from his time under the command of Hawes, Cottrell, or Tyndall.
**1950s:** The 1950s brought a mix of routine operations and significant events. Glen Birdsell, who served in 1951, is keen to reconnect with fellow crew members, emphasizing the lasting bonds formed during his service. Jerry L. Brant, also from the early '50s, reflects on his transition to the USS Sperry and his long career post-Navy. Wendell Carvan recalls his first ship out of ET school, mentioning memorable shipmates and a harrowing typhoon encounter. Bill Hight shares his experience during Operation Hardtack in 1958, highlighting his role as a diver and damage controlman.
**1960s:** The 1960s were a vibrant decade for the Chanticleer, marked by numerous WestPac tours and significant events. Michael Boger seeks information about the ship's Vietnam service, recalling a mission delivering Avon products to the American Embassy in Saigon. Jim Gulbrandson and George Jones both recount their experiences navigating the Saigon River, with Jones narrowly escaping a dangerous incident with the anchor chain. Ronald Kurtz and Art Larsen share memories of injuries sustained during exercises in Tokyo Bay, reflecting on the physical risks of naval service.
John Arnold humorously recalls an incident involving the Florikin crew and a stolen bird, while Roger Brown and Brad Brown reminisce about their diverse postings and the friendships formed. Dan Campbell and James Dunham both highlight the unforgettable experiences of their WestPac tours, with Dunham emphasizing the lessons in hard work and perseverance. Pat Lynch and Robert Sir Louis share their unique experiences with hard hat diving and sonar tracking, respectively, while Wardell Stephens and Larry Stokes reflect on their specialized roles as divers.
**1970s and Decommissioning:** The early 1970s saw the Chanticleer's final years of service. Bruce Behrens and David Humeston recall their time aboard, with Humeston humorously noting a particularly drunken ship's party. Chris Kline and Steve Mason both served during the ship's decommissioning, expressing fondness for their time on the Chanticleer despite its impending end. Mark Magellan and Billy Sopher share their long-term naval careers, with Sopher crediting the ship for introducing him to his wife.
**General Reflections:** Throughout these decades, the crew members' stories consistently highlight the strong sense of camaraderie and the unique challenges of life at sea. From navigating typhoons and participating in significant operations to forming lifelong friendships and enduring the daily grind of naval duties, the memories of the USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) paint a vivid picture of a ship that was more than just a vessel—it was a home and a community for those who served aboard her.
USS Chanticleer ASR-7: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) was a remarkable ship, always evolving to meet the needs of the U.S. Navy's submarine rescue operations. Commissioned in 1942, it started with top-notch diving and salvage gear for its time. But as technology marched on, so did Chanticleer. In the 1950s, it got a makeover with modern diving systems, better decompression chambers, and cutting-edge underwater tools. These upgrades let the ship tackle more complex underwater tasks, boosting its rescue and salvage prowess.
Chanticleer was a jack-of-all-trades, ready to meet the Navy's changing demands. It was primarily a submarine rescue vessel, designed to help submarines in distress and save trapped submariners. Its diving teams were trained for tough underwater conditions, able to dive deep to check and fix damaged subs. The ship also had advanced sonar and underwater communication systems to find and connect with sunken vessels. Besides rescue work, Chanticleer was key in salvage missions, recovering gear and fixing naval assets underwater.
Chanticleer's impact on the fleet was huge. During World War II, it played a vital role in rescue missions, like the recovery of the USS Squalus (SS-192). These missions saved lives and taught valuable lessons about submarine safety and rescue, leading to better protocols and gear. After the war, Chanticleer stayed busy, taking part in training and real missions. It was a comforting presence for submariners, knowing a capable rescue ship was ready to help.
Chanticleer's legacy goes beyond its missions. It was a testing ground for new rescue and salvage tech, many of which became Navy standards. The crew's experiences and the lessons from its missions were crucial in shaping future underwater rescue operations. Chanticleer's dedication to excellence and innovation made it a cornerstone of the Navy's submarine rescue efforts for over three decades, leaving a lasting mark on naval history.
USS Chanticleer ASR-7: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) was a real gem in the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1942, she was built for one main purpose: submarine rescue and salvage. During World War II, she was sent to the Pacific Theater, where she became a lifeline for submariners. Her job was to rescue those in trouble and help fix up damaged submarines so they could get back in action. Just knowing she was out there gave submarine crews a huge morale boost.
When the Korean War rolled around, the Chanticleer was right there, proving her worth again. She operated off the Korean Peninsula, supporting both submarines and surface ships. But she wasn't just about rescue and salvage. Her crew was skilled in underwater repairs and even helped recover downed aircraft. These folks were trained in deep-sea diving and underwater demolition, making them a crucial part of the team in those tough wartime conditions.
Even in peacetime, the Chanticleer stayed busy. She took part in all sorts of training exercises to keep the Navy sharp and ready. These exercises often involved working with allied navies, which helped build strong international ties. Whether it was a submarine rescue drill or a complex salvage operation, the Chanticleer showed she could handle it all, proving her ongoing importance in the Navy's ever-changing world.
The Chanticleer's service didn't go unnoticed. Over the years, she and her crew racked up numerous awards and commendations. They earned the Navy Unit Commendation and several campaign medals for their efforts in World War II and the Korean War. The crew's outstanding performance in peacetime operations also earned them accolades. These honors highlight the ship's vital role in the Navy and her lasting legacy as a key player in submarine rescue and salvage missions.
USS Chanticleer ASR-7 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Chanticleer Class Submarine Rescue Ship |
| Commissioned | November 20, 1942 |
| Displacement | 2,141 tons |
| Length | 251.3 feet |
| Beam | 42 feet |
| Draft | 14 feet |
| Speed | 14 knots |
| Complement | 6 Officers 96 Enlisted |