From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, Vol. I p 63

Armistead Rust

Born in Campbell County, Va., 12 July 1862, Armistead Rust graduated from the Academy in 1885. During his naval career he served aboard Richmond, Saratoga, Constellation and Ranger. Upon retiring from the Navy 22 July 1919, he became Superintendent of Massachusetts Nautical Academy. Serving in this position until 29 April 1932, Captain Rust, an authority in navigation, simplified the survey and star identification tables. Captain Rust died 29 December 1941 at Annapolis, Md.

PCS-1404 was launched 12 November 1943 by Colbert Boat Works, Stockton, Calif. ; sponsored by Mrs. Frank J. Castiglione and commissioned 30 March 1944, Lieutenant W. H. Beatty, .Tr., USNR, in command.

Departing San Diego 4 May 1944 PCS -1404 steamed to Saipan, via Pearl Harbor and the Marshall Islands, arriving 17 June. She supported the occupation of Saipan and then continued to operate in the Marianas on antisubmarine patrol duty until 27 September when she departed for Pearl Harbor, The vessel remained in the Hawaiian area during 15 October 1944--24 January 1945 and then departed for Iwo Jima. She performed patrol duty during the Iwo Jima operation (20--26 February 1945) and then returned to Saipan, arriving 2 March. The next day she departed under tow of LST--808 and ATR--94, arriving at Leyte, Philippine Islands, 9 March.

On 19 March PCS--1404 departed Leyte for Okinawa. The following day she was renamed Armistead Rust and reclassified AGS--9. Between 26 March and 30 June she conducted survey operations in the vicinity of Kerama Retto and Okinawa.

Armistead Rust returned to the Philippines in July 1945 and continued to operate in the vicinity of Manila and Subic Bay until June 1946. She was decommissioned at Subic Bay 9 June 1946 and sold 27 October 1948.

Armistead Rust received three battle stars for her World War II service.