USS Petrel ASR-14
The USS Petrel (ASR-14) was a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship built to support the U.S. Navy's submarine fleet. It was laid down on February 26, 1945, by the Savannah Machine & Foundry Co. in Savannah, Georgia. The ship launched on September 26, 1945, sponsored by Mrs. J. W. Rankin, and was commissioned on July 24, 1946. This ship was part of a broader effort to boost the Navy's capabilities in submarine rescue and salvage operations, highlighting the growing importance of submarine warfare in the mid-20th century.
Named after the petrel, a seabird known for navigating stormy seas, the USS Petrel symbolized its mission to operate in tough conditions to rescue submariners in distress. This name was fitting, as the ship was designed to be a strong and reliable vessel capable of performing complex and hazardous underwater operations. The petrel's resilience and navigational skills were qualities the Navy wanted to embody in this specialized rescue ship.
The USS Petrel had some standout features, including extensive diving and salvage equipment for deep-sea rescue missions. It was equipped with a McCann Rescue Chamber, used to rescue submariners from disabled submarines, and a recompression chamber to treat divers with decompression sickness. The ship also had a large crane and other heavy machinery to assist in salvage operations, making it a versatile asset in the Navy's fleet.
The legacy of the USS Petrel in the U.S. Navy is significant. It played a crucial role in advancing submarine rescue techniques and technologies. The ship's operations provided valuable experience and data that informed the development of future submarine rescue vessels and protocols. The USS Petrel's contributions to the safety and effectiveness of the Navy's submarine force were vital, ensuring submariners had a reliable means of rescue in emergencies.
The USS Petrel was part of the Chanticleer-class, a group of submarine rescue ships designed during World War II to meet the growing need for specialized support vessels. These ships primarily provided assistance to submarines in distress, conducted salvage operations, and supported diving missions. The Chanticleer-class ships were equipped with advanced technology and equipment for their time, making them an essential component of the Navy's submarine support infrastructure.
Commissioned on July 24, 1946, the USS Petrel quickly became an integral part of the Navy's submarine rescue operations. Throughout its service, the ship participated in numerous training exercises, rescue missions, and salvage operations, showcasing its capabilities and reliability. The commissioning of the USS Petrel marked the start of a distinguished career, significantly contributing to the safety and effectiveness of the United States Navy's submarine fleet.
USS Petrel ASR-14: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Petrel (ASR-14) was a Chanticleer-class submarine rescue ship, built to help submarines in distress. It had a strong, functional design, perfect for its mission. The ship was about 251 feet long, with a beam of 42 feet and a draft of 14 feet, making it versatile in different waters. Its superstructure housed essential rescue gear like decompression chambers and diving bells, crucial for submarine rescue missions.
The Petrel was packed with cutting-edge tech for its time. It had advanced sonar and underwater communication systems to find and connect with submarines in trouble. Its navigation and positioning systems were top-notch, allowing precise movements during rescues. The ship ran on diesel-electric engines, striking a balance between power and efficiency for long missions. These features made the Petrel a key player in the Navy's rescue operations.
When it came to weapons, the Petrel wasn't heavily armed. Its main job was rescue, not combat. It did have some light defensive weapons, like a couple of 20mm anti-aircraft guns, to protect against aerial threats. By keeping armament minimal, the ship could focus more on its rescue equipment, ensuring it was ready for its primary mission.
The real strength of the Petrel lay in its rescue and salvage tools. It carried deep-sea diving suits, underwater cutting and welding gear, and powerful winches and cranes for lifting heavy objects from the ocean floor. The ship also had submersible vehicles and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for complex underwater tasks. These tools allowed the Petrel to handle a variety of missions, from recovering sunken submarines to assisting with underwater repairs. With its advanced tech and specialized equipment, the USS Petrel was a vital part of the Navy's efforts to keep its submarine fleet safe and ready for action.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Petrel (ASR-14) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the numerous guestbook posts 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 submarine rescue vessel.
Early Years and Notable Missions The early years of the USS Petrel saw significant events and missions. Crew members like Ronald Fiskum, who served in 1954, recall the daily sea duties and the rigorous training for deep-sea divers. Doug Faconi, who served in 1959, reminisces about the first recovery of a live Polaris missile and the challenges posed by hurricanes. Bob Fish, who was aboard in 1958, remembers the mission to pick up the Guavina (SSO-362) and the unfortunate passing of their skipper upon returning to Key West.
The 1960s: A Decade of Adventures and Challenges The 1960s were marked by several significant events, including the recovery of an H-bomb off the coast of Palomares, Spain. Crew members like Jerry Clouser and Charles Martin recall their involvement in this high-stakes mission. The decade also saw the tragic loss of the USS Scorpion, a submarine that the Petrel was involved in searching for, as remembered by Joel Anderson and Jerry Waite.
The 1970s: Camaraderie and Memorable Cruises The 1970s were a time of camaraderie and memorable cruises. Jim Bain, who served from 1975 to 1979, fondly recalls the wonderful captain, XO, and crew. Allan Baker, who served in 1978, reminisces about the fireflies on the fantail and the trip to Scotland. The decade also saw the infamous lobster feast incident during a North Atlantic cruise, as recounted by Greg Demarco and Paul Gullickson.
The 1980s: Hurricanes, Rescues, and Hard Work The 1980s brought new challenges and adventures. Anthony Barnes and Gerard Barnes both recall the harrowing experience of riding out hurricanes. The crew also participated in several rescue operations, including the Bonefish rescue op, as remembered by Cary Burns. The decade was also marked by hard work and dedication, with crew members like John Johnson and Terry Kiser recalling the numerous operations and the strong sense of teamwork.
The 1990s: The Final Years and Decommissioning The 1990s saw the final years of the USS Petrel before its decommissioning. Crew members like Bryen Glass and Eddie Sanders recall their first sea assignments and the friendships they forged. The ship's decommissioning was a bittersweet moment for many, including David Schmitz, who served as the commanding officer during this period.
Personal Reflections and Lasting Friendships Throughout the decades, the crew members of the USS Petrel formed lasting friendships and created memories that have stayed with them long after their service. Many, like Andrew Adams and Ray Bendig, express a desire to reconnect with former shipmates. Others, like Nicholas Hoffman and Astro Perez, share memories of their fathers who served on the ship, highlighting the generational impact of their service.
Conclusion The memories shared by the crew members of the USS Petrel (ASR-14) reflect a rich tapestry of experiences, from high-stakes missions and harrowing storms to camaraderie and personal growth. These recollections not only honor the ship's legacy but also underscore the enduring bonds formed among those who served aboard her.
USS Petrel ASR-14: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Petrel (ASR-14) was a remarkable ship in the U.S. Navy, always evolving to meet the demands of its missions. Commissioned in 1946, it was built as a submarine rescue vessel, equipped with top-notch diving and salvage gear for its era. But as time marched on, so did the Petrel. In the 1960s, it got a major upgrade with better sonar systems, improved diving bells, and enhanced decompression chambers. These changes kept it relevant and boosted its effectiveness in submarine rescue missions.
The Petrel's mission capabilities were as varied as they were vital. It was primarily a submarine rescue ship, a crucial role during the Cold War when submarines were everywhere. The Petrel could support deep-sea diving operations, reaching depths that were once out of reach. It also excelled in salvage operations, recovering sunken ships and valuable gear from the ocean floor. Its versatility meant it could handle underwater repairs and support other naval missions too.
The USS Petrel made significant contributions to the Navy. It took part in many high-profile rescue and salvage missions, earning a reputation for reliability and excellence. One standout mission was the recovery of a downed aircraft in the Mediterranean Sea, where the Petrel's advanced equipment and skilled crew retrieved the wreckage from over 1,000 feet deep. These missions showcased the ship's capabilities and highlighted its importance to naval operations. The Petrel's ability to perform under pressure made it an indispensable asset.
Beyond its operational successes, the Petrel also played a role in advancing naval technology and procedures. It was a testing ground for new diving equipment and techniques, many of which were later used by other ships. The knowledge gained from the Petrel's missions helped shape the future of submarine rescue and salvage operations. Its crew, trained in cutting-edge underwater operations, shared their expertise throughout the Navy, amplifying the Petrel's impact. The USS Petrel (ASR-14) not only excelled in its primary mission but also left a lasting legacy on the U.S. Navy.
USS Petrel ASR-14: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Petrel (ASR-14) was a key player in the U.S. Navy's submarine rescue and salvage operations. Commissioned in 1946, she served in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea. During the Cold War, Petrel's missions were crucial for the safety and readiness of the U.S. submarine fleet. Her advanced diving and salvage capabilities allowed her to tackle complex underwater tasks, like recovering downed aircraft and sunken vessels, which were vital for maintaining naval superiority and gathering intelligence.
Petrel's contributions were especially significant during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. In the Korean War, she supported submarine operations and conducted salvage missions in the challenging waters around the Korean Peninsula. Her crew showed remarkable skill and bravery, often working in dangerous conditions to complete their missions. Similarly, during the Vietnam War, Petrel was in the Western Pacific, providing essential support to the U.S. Navy's submarine fleet. Her deep-sea rescue and salvage operations were crucial for keeping submarines ready for combat and reconnaissance missions.
USS Petrel's outstanding service was recognized with numerous awards and commendations. She received honors like the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for exceptional service during specific deployments. Petrel also earned campaign medals, including the Korean Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal, highlighting her active role in these major conflicts. The crew's professionalism and dedication were further acknowledged with individual awards, such as the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, given to sailors who showed extraordinary skill and valor.
The legacy of USS Petrel (ASR-14) is a testament to her vital role in the Navy's submarine rescue and salvage operations. Over her decades of service, Petrel not only contributed to the success of many missions but also set a high standard for future submarine rescue ships. Her history of deployments, involvement in major conflicts, and the numerous awards she received underscore her significant impact on naval operations and the safety of submariners. USS Petrel remains a symbol of dedication, resilience, and excellence within the U.S. Navy.
USS Petrel ASR-14 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Chanticleer Class Submarine Rescue Ship |
| Commissioned | September 24, 1946 |
| Displacement | 2,141 tons |
| Length | 251.3 feet |
| Beam | 42 feet |
| Draft | 14 feet |
| Speed | 14 knots |
| Complement | 6 Officers 96 Enlisted |