The USS Hoist (ARS-40) was a Bolster-class rescue and salvage ship acquired by the US Navy during World War II to aid stricken vessels. The ship was launched in 1945 by the Basalt Rock Company shipyard and commissioned the same year. After shakedown, the ship began salvage operations in the Far East. In 146, she was used for training students at the Naval Training Salvage School following an overhaul. The vessel continued salvage operations from 1947 to 1948 along the East and Gulf coasts, sailing for the Azores in 1949 to repair an underwater pipeline and tow targets for aircraft squadron exercises off Bermuda. In the next few years, the ship was tasked with periodic operations in the Caribbean, acting as a station ship, towing, and engaging in amphibious exercises in addition to her salvage and repair services. In 1964 she operated at the site of the Thresher (SSN-593) tragedy, and in 1966 took part in recovering an H-bomb off the Spanish coast. The vessel was decommissioned and struck from the Naval Register in 1994. Asbestos abounded on Navy ships built before the 80s, and personnel was at a high risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. Those working with boilers and engines were at the highest risk, as asbestos insulated and protected the engine and boiler rooms.
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