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A comprehensive collection of frequently asked questions about diesel-electric submarines, with special focus on World War II US submarines.
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The following U.S. Navy Submariners were awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism and self-sacrifice in the line of duty. Their actions represent the highest traditions of naval service and courage under the most perilous conditions.
Rank/Unit: Torpedoman Second Class, USS O-5
Date Awarded: June 27, 1921
Citation Summary:
While O-5 sank following a collision in the Panama Canal, Breault voluntarily returned into the flooding
submarine chamber to rescue a shipmate despite almost certain death. His selfless actions saved the life of
his shipmate at the cost of great personal risk.
Rank/Unit: Captain (posthumous), Submarine Force, U.S. Navy (assigned to USS Sculpin
support)
Date Awarded: October 31, 1943
Citation Summary:
During World War II, Captain Cromwell chose to remain aboard an enemy-controlled submarine rather than risk
divulging vital secret information. Refusing rescue when sea pressure dropped and capture was imminent, he
gave his life to protect crucial Allied intelligence.
Rank/Unit: Commander, USS Harder
Date Awarded: March 6, 1945
Citation Summary:
Commander Dealey displayed extraordinary heroism commanding Harder against Japanese shipping. His aggressive
tactics resulted in multiple successful attacks, sinking or damaging numerous enemy vessels under hazardous
conditions, demonstrating fearless leadership.
Rank/Unit: Rear Admiral (then Commander), USS Barb
Date Awarded: January 14, 1946
Citation Summary:
For outstanding service in WWII, Fluckey's innovative and daring patrols in Barb inflicted heavy enemy losses,
including uniquely audacious operations close to enemy shores. His tactics exemplified exceptional courage and
skill.
Rank/Unit: Commander, USS Growler
Date Awarded: February 16, 1943 (posthumous)
Citation Summary:
During a surface engagement with enemy forces, Commander Gilmore ordered “Take her down!” —
sacrificing himself to save his ship and crew. His decisive action at great personal cost exemplified supreme
devotion to duty.
Rank/Unit: Rear Admiral (then Lieutenant), USS Tang
Date Awarded: December 7, 1945
Citation Summary:
Lieutenant O'Kane was honored for exceptional leadership and submarine warfare prowess. As Executive Officer
and later Commander aboard Tang, his tactical expertise contributed to Tang's distinguished record of sinking
enemy ships under intense danger.
Rank/Unit: Commander, USS Parche
Date Awarded: May 11, 1944
Citation Summary:
In the South China Sea, Commander Ramage led Parche through perilous shallow waters to attack strongly
defended Japanese convoys. His bold action and repeated surface attacks displayed tenacious aggressiveness in
the face of heavy enemy fire.
Rank/Unit: Captain, USS Tirante
Date Awarded: April 18, 1945
Citation Summary:
While commanding Tirante in hostile Japanese waters, Captain Street navigated extreme peril beneath minefields
and heavy defenses to strike effectively at the enemy. His courage and skill brought vital successes against
daunting odds.
Honoring the brave men and vessels lost in service to their nation. This list covers U.S. submarines lost from the early 20th century through the Cold War era.
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A comprehensive record of US submarine incidents throughout history, including accidents, collisions, groundings, and other notable events.
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Explore the fascinating world of submarine operations, tactics, and missions throughout history.
US submarines have played crucial roles in various conflicts throughout history, particularly during World War II. Their operations ranged from reconnaissance and intelligence gathering to direct combat engagements and support missions.
This page provides information about the various types of submarine operations, tactical approaches, and the evolution of submarine warfare doctrine.
Combat patrols were the primary mission of WWII submarines. Boats would patrol assigned areas, hunting enemy shipping and naval vessels. Patrols typically lasted 30-60 days.
Submarines were ideal for covert reconnaissance missions, gathering intelligence on enemy positions, movements, and installations.
During air raids, submarines stationed near enemy territory rescued downed airmen from the water, saving hundreds of lives.
Submarines transported supplies, personnel, and special forces to and from isolated or enemy-held areas.
Some submarines were equipped to lay mines in enemy waters, creating hazards for enemy shipping lanes and harbors.
Submarines served as radio relay stations and coordination platforms for multi-boat operations and intelligence gathering.
The classic approach: submerged approach using periscope observations, calculating firing solutions, and launching torpedoes while avoiding detection.
Particularly effective in the Pacific, submarines would surface at night to use their deck guns and higher speed for attacks and repositioning.
Coordinated attacks by multiple submarines, sharing intelligence and attacking convoys from multiple angles simultaneously.
Silent running, deep diving, use of thermal layers, and noise discipline to evade depth charge attacks and enemy detection.
US submarines accounted for approximately 55% of all Japanese shipping losses during WWII, while representing only 2% of the US Navy.