The USS Sailfish, originally known as USS Squalus, is a testament to resilience and innovation in naval history. This Sargo-class submarine of the United States Navy faced a catastrophic event during its early days, only to be salvaged and transformed into a formidable vessel during World War II. The story of USS Sailfish is not just about a ship but about the courage and ingenuity that brought it back to life.
The Sinking of USS Squalus
On May 23, 1939, the USS Squalus embarked
on a series of test dives off the coast of New Hampshire. Unfortunately, a failure in the main induction valve led to the flooding of several compartments, resulting in the submarine sinking to the ocean floor at a depth of 243 feet. This tragic event claimed the lives of 26 crew members, while 33 others were trapped in the sunken vessel.
The rescue operation that followed was a groundbreaking effort in naval history. Utilizing the McCann Rescue Chamber for the first time, divers managed to save the lives of the remaining crew members. This successful rescue operation highlighted the bravery and skill of the divers and set a precedent for future submarine rescue missions.
Salvage and Recommissioning
The decision to salvage the USS Squalus was driven by the need to understand the cause of the sinking and to recover a vessel that incorporated new design features. The salvage operation was a complex and lengthy process, involving the use of pontoons and cables to lift the submarine in stages. After several attempts and redesigns of the lifting plan, the submarine was successfully raised and towed to Portsmouth.
Once at Portsmouth, the submarine underwent extensive repairs and reconditioning. On February 9, 1940, it was renamed USS Sailfish, marking a new chapter in its service. The recommissioning of the submarine on May 15, 1940, symbolized a triumph over adversity and a commitment to learning from past mistakes.
A New Role in World War II
As USS Sailfish, the submarine played a significant role in the Pacific War during World War II. It conducted numerous patrols, earning nine battle stars for its service. The transformation from a sunken vessel to a decorated warship is a remarkable story of resilience and adaptation.
The USS Sailfish's journey from disaster to distinction serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and innovation in overcoming challenges. Its legacy continues to inspire, with its conning tower preserved as a memorial at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, honoring the bravery of those who served aboard and those who rescued it.
