USS Hoist ARS-40
The USS Hoist (ARS-40) was a Bolster-class rescue and salvage ship built for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Her keel was laid down on November 1, 1944, at the Basalt Rock Company shipyard in Napa, California. She was launched on March 31, 1945, and officially commissioned on September 21, 1945. The Hoist was part of a broader effort to boost the Navy's salvage capabilities, a critical need during and after the war.
Named "Hoist" to reflect her mission of lifting and salvaging, the ship's role was to recover damaged vessels, aircraft, and other valuable materials from the sea. This name highlights the ship's importance in maintaining naval readiness by ensuring valuable assets could be retrieved and repaired instead of being lost to the ocean depths.
The USS Hoist was equipped with robust salvage gear, including heavy-duty winches, cranes, and diving equipment. She had a 20-ton capacity boom and a 10-ton capacity boom, allowing her to perform a wide range of lifting and towing tasks. With advanced underwater cutting and welding tools, she was a versatile asset for various salvage missions. Her design also included accommodations for a large crew and specialized divers, enabling her to operate independently for extended periods.
The legacy of the USS Hoist is significant. She played a crucial role in numerous salvage operations throughout her service. Her contributions weren't limited to wartime; she also took part in peacetime missions, like recovering downed aircraft and clearing navigational hazards. The Hoist exemplified the Navy's commitment to maintaining a capable and ready fleet, always prepared to respond to emergencies and preserve valuable resources.
As a Bolster-class ship, the Hoist was part of a class specifically designed to meet the Navy's need for dedicated salvage vessels. These ships were known for their robust construction and specialized equipment, enabling them to perform a wide range of salvage and rescue operations. Their primary purpose was to assist damaged vessels, conduct diving operations, and perform underwater repairs, making them essential to the Navy's support fleet.
The commissioning of the USS Hoist marked the start of a distinguished career in the Navy. From the moment she entered service, she was tasked with various salvage and rescue missions, showcasing her capabilities and the importance of her role. The commissioning ceremony on September 21, 1945, was a proud moment for her crew and the Navy, as she became a valuable asset to the fleet. The USS Hoist served with distinction, leaving a lasting impact on the Navy's salvage and rescue operations.
USS Hoist ARS-40: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Hoist (ARS-40) was a vital part of the U.S. Navy's Bolster-class rescue and salvage ships. It was built to tackle tough jobs, measuring 213 feet long with a 39-foot beam and a 14-foot draft. This size gave it the stability needed for salvage operations. Made of steel, the Hoist was tough enough to handle the roughest seas. Its superstructure was packed with essential salvage gear like heavy-duty winches, cranes, and towing equipment, all crucial for its mission of rescuing and salvaging other vessels.
When it came to technology, the USS Hoist was ahead of its time. It had systems that made complex salvage operations a breeze. One standout feature was its dynamic positioning system, which let the ship stay put over a wreck or salvage site without anchoring. This was a game-changer for working in deep or tricky waters. The Hoist also had top-notch diving support gear, including decompression chambers and mixed-gas diving systems, boosting the depth and safety for its dive teams. Plus, it was equipped with advanced sonar and underwater imaging systems to find and assess submerged objects.
Though the USS Hoist wasn't built for combat, it had some defensive weapons to keep it and its crew safe. It carried a pair of 20mm Oerlikon anti-aircraft cannons, offering basic protection against aerial threats. These cannons were deck-mounted and could be operated manually or with targeting help. While the Hoist usually worked away from combat zones, these weapons ensured it could defend itself if needed.
Beyond weaponry, the Hoist had other defensive features to boost its survivability. It was equipped with damage control systems like fire suppression gear, watertight compartments, and emergency power supplies. The crew was well-trained in handling emergencies such as fires, flooding, or structural damage. Communication and navigation systems on board allowed the Hoist to coordinate smoothly with other naval vessels and command centers, ensuring it could carry out its missions safely and efficiently. All these features made the USS Hoist a versatile and dependable asset in the U.S. Navy's fleet.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Hoist (ARS-40) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous guestbook entries that recount their experiences aboard the ship. These memories span several decades, from the 1950s to the 1990s, and paint a vivid picture of life on this naval vessel.
1950s and 1960s: Early Adventures and Challenges
Crew members from the late 1950s and early 1960s recall a variety of challenging and memorable experiences. Al Alan Moynihan, who served as an EM3 in 1959, fondly remembers the camaraderie and good times aboard the ship. David Andregg, who served in 1960, recounts the harrowing experience of surviving a storm off Cape Hatteras with 30-50' seas and a 40+ degree roll. He also participated in the installation of ARGUS ISLAND off Bermuda, which was later used by SEALAB.
Gene Austin, a CS3 in 1959, reminisces about playing cards in Guantanamo Bay and various salvage operations, including pulling a destroyer off the rocks at Montauk, Long Island. Everett Babcock, an IC-2 in 1957, recalls the ship being iced up outside Greenland and the subsequent search operation that made the New York Times.
1970s: Salvage Operations and Mediterranean Cruises
The 1970s brought a series of significant salvage operations and Mediterranean cruises. Thomas Bittler, an E5 EN in 1975, remembers towing the USS Belknap back to the USA and removing a research tower outside Bermuda. Gerald O Busic, a FN in 1966, participated in the salvage of the USS STALWART in San Juan and special operations in Vieques.
H.p. Butch Butler, a BM3 in 1967, recalls the Med cruise of 1968, where the crew spent about 60 days salvaging the USS Bache after it grounded in Rhodes, Greece. Dennis Cochran, an EN3 in 1974, fondly remembers the time spent in Gitmo, Bermuda, and the Med, as well as the shipyard and motel stays.
1980s: Tight-Knit Crews and Memorable Missions
The 1980s were marked by a strong sense of camaraderie and numerous memorable missions. Jeff Baker, an RM1 in 1983, describes the USS Hoist as his best ship, with a great crew and many awards. Keith Binzer, a BM3/DV in 1989, expresses his honor at being stationed on the Hoist and the lasting friendships he made.
John Calleja, a BM2/DV in 1985, highlights the ship's appearance in the movie "Men of Honor" and sends a special greeting to the divers of the Hoist. Darrell Campbell, an SH1 in 1979, recalls the ship lost in the Devil's Triangle and the U352 job, as well as towing the Indy.
1990s: Final Years and Decommissioning
The 1990s saw the final years of the USS Hoist's service. Thomas Fuchsgruber, an EM3 in 1992, remembers the great crew and the motto "Every day's a holiday and every meal's a feast!" David Harris, an EM1/DSW/SW in 1992, takes pride in earning his sea legs aboard the ship.
Jeff Hughes, a SN in 1993, recalls meeting the ship in Spain at the beginning of its last Med cruise and the fond memories he has of the boat and her crew. Michael Spiegler, an EN3 in 1990, describes the sadness of Decommission Day and the challenges of keeping the fuel tanks from leaking into the bilges.
Conclusion
The memories shared by the crew members of the USS Hoist (ARS-40) reflect a deep sense of pride, camaraderie, and adventure. From surviving treacherous storms and participating in significant salvage operations to forming lifelong friendships and experiencing the highs and lows of naval life, the stories of the USS Hoist's crew paint a rich and varied picture of life aboard this storied vessel.
USS Hoist ARS-40: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Hoist (ARS-40) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, always evolving to meet the demands of its missions. Commissioned in 1945, it started with top-notch salvage and rescue gear for its time. But as the years rolled on, so did the tech. In the 1950s, the Hoist got a major upgrade with stronger winches and cranes, boosting its ability to lift heavier loads from the ocean's depths. The 1960s and 1970s brought even more advancements, like cutting-edge diving systems and better navigation tools, making the Hoist more efficient and safer in various maritime settings.
The Hoist was a jack-of-all-trades, reflecting the Navy's changing needs. It was primarily a salvage and rescue ship, skilled at retrieving sunken ships, aircraft, and other treasures from the sea. Its sturdy build and specialized gear allowed it to tackle tricky underwater tasks, like fixing damaged ships and clearing navigational hazards. Plus, it was a solid base for diving operations, supporting both salvage and scientific research missions. This versatility made the Hoist a crucial asset for many naval operations.
The USS Hoist made a lasting impact on the fleet. It took part in many high-stakes salvage missions, like recovering downed aircraft and retrieving valuable military gear. One standout mission involved the recovery of a sunken submarine, showcasing the Hoist's technical skills and its vital role in keeping the fleet ready for action. These missions often saved valuable assets and ensured the safety of naval personnel.
But the Hoist's contributions didn't stop there. It was also a key player in training and preparedness. The ship was a training ground for Navy divers and salvage crews, offering real-world experience. This hands-on training was crucial for honing the skills needed for effective salvage and rescue work. The Hoist's presence in the fleet bolstered the Navy's strategic capabilities, ensuring quick and effective responses to maritime emergencies. The legacy of the USS Hoist highlights the importance of specialized support ships in maintaining the Navy's strength and resilience.
USS Hoist ARS-40: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Hoist (ARS-40) was a remarkable ship with a rich history of upgrades and service. Commissioned in 1945, it was initially outfitted with top-notch salvage and rescue gear for its time. But as the years rolled on, so did the technology. In the 1950s, the Hoist got a major facelift with more powerful winches and cranes, boosting its ability to lift heavier objects from the ocean floor. The 1960s and 1970s brought even more advancements, like cutting-edge diving systems and better navigation tools, making the Hoist more efficient and safe in various maritime settings.
The Hoist was a jack-of-all-trades when it came to mission capabilities. It was primarily a salvage and rescue ship, skilled at retrieving sunken vessels, aircraft, and other treasures from the deep. Its sturdy build and specialized gear allowed it to tackle complex underwater tasks, like fixing damaged ships and clearing navigational hazards. Plus, it was a great support for diving operations, offering a stable platform for deep-sea divers involved in both salvage and scientific research. This versatility made the Hoist a crucial asset for a wide range of naval missions.
The contributions of the USS Hoist to the fleet were nothing short of impressive. It took part in many high-profile salvage operations, like recovering downed aircraft and retrieving valuable military gear. One standout mission was the recovery of a sunken submarine, which required precise coordination and advanced salvage techniques. The Hoist's ability to handle such complex tasks showcased its technical prowess and highlighted its vital role in keeping the fleet ready for action. Its efforts often saved valuable assets and ensured the safety of naval personnel.
Beyond its operational feats, the Hoist was a key player in training and preparedness. It served as a training ground for Navy divers and salvage crews, offering hands-on experience in real-world conditions. This training was crucial for honing the skills needed for effective salvage and rescue missions. Moreover, the Hoist's presence in the fleet bolstered the U.S. Navy's strategic capabilities, ensuring swift and effective responses to maritime emergencies. The legacy of the USS Hoist underscores the importance of specialized support vessels in maintaining the strength and resilience of the naval fleet.
USS Hoist ARS-40 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Bolster Class Rescue and Salvage Ship |
| Commissioned | July 21, 1945 |
| Displacement | 2,048 tons |
| Length | 213.5 feet |
| Beam | 43 feet |
| Draft | 13.8 feet |
| Speed | 16 knots |
| Complement | 7 Officers 113 Enlisted |