The great thing about the internet and Google is that you constantly come across things that inspire, educate, and cause thought. Last night while checking on my web stats and SEO I somehow stumbled upon this little gem...The USS Bolster, US Navy Rescue and Salvage ship.
The ship that is 213' long was built by the Basalt Rock Co. and launched from Napa, CA on Dec. 23rd, 1944. Wonder if it was christened by a nice cabernet instead of champagne? The vessel served in WWII, Korean War, and in Vietnam. It was used to rescue battle struck ships, pull barges, and used for deep sea recovery with divers for salvage operations around the world.
Though the work wasn't as "glamorous" as the big gun ships and aircraft carriers, the ship and crews were awarded numerous decorations for performance in battle situations. The ship was put out of service on Sept. 24, 1994 and resides currently in Suisun Bay, California. Efforts are being made to rescue the rescue ship and turn it into a museum. Details, photos, and video can be seen here. I'll be anxious to ask my dad, who served in the US Army in the Far East if he ever came across this ship while he was stationed there, since the time frame and geographical areas would have been the same. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to yet determine who in "my" family this ship was named after ;-)
6 comments:
I'll be anxious to hear if Dad knows anything about this too! It's quite the boat for sure! Do ya think you could throw a fishing line off from the side just for the fun of it?
Was on the ship 1970-1971, with tours of Viet-nam. Yes, the Captain fished off the stern
wow....i was stationed on the bolster from 75 to 77 . she was a great ship and i have many fond memories of her.we escorted the fiji navy to suva,fiji...2 old mine sweeps we sold them....man,i miss her,she should be in a museum!!!!
I surely agree with the article's stand. The ship's insight really is a hit. Informative!
My Grandfather was on the commissioning crew during WW2. One of four Chiefs, 1943-1945.
Hi, I just bought a document with the name Charles S. Bolster announcing him as a member of the Boston Marine Society. I believe he was also a lawyer/judge who presided over the Boston Strangler case. I don't see how to attach a photo, but if you want to see it, send me an email. rudolphh@ bc.edu.
Post a Comment