Abstract: A brace member having a longitudinally extending tapered body portion includes a first end portion having an expanded head of a frusto-conical shape terminating in a planar surface and a second end portion having a U-shaped member secured thereto. The planar surface of the expanded head is positioned in an abutting relation with a supporting structure, such as the metallic superstructure of an oceangoing vessel. The conical shape of the expanded head forms with the surface of the supporting structure an annular recess for receiving a weld to unite the end of the brace member securely to the supporting structure. The U-shaped member includes a semicircular base having means for securely receiving and retaining a pipe, conduit or the like in a fixed position relative to the supporting structure.