USS Devilfish
USS Devilfish: A Historical Overview
The USS Devilfish (SS/AGSS-292) was a Balao-class submarine of the United States Navy, notable for its service during World War II and its eventual fate in the late 1960s. Named after the devilfish, a term commonly used for certain species of ray, this submarine was launched in 1943 and had a distinguished service record before being struck from the Naval Vessel Register. This article delves into the construction, commissioning, service history, and eventual sinking of the USS Devilfish, portraying its contributions to naval warfare and its legacy.
Construction and Commissioning
The USS Devilfish was constructed by the Cramp Shipbuilding Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Launched on May 30, 1943, the submarine was sponsored by Mrs. Frank W. Fenno Jr., who played a significant role in promoting naval endeavors during that era. After its launch, the vessel underwent fitting out and preparations before officially being commissioned into the United States Navy on September 1, 1944.
Service History
Following its commissioning, the USS Devilfish began its service by supporting the training program of the Fleet Sonar School at Key West from October 18 to November 2, 1944. This period was crucial for honing sonar skills essential for submarine warfare. By December 2, 1944, Devilfish reached Pearl Harbor, marking an important milestone as it transitioned into active combat operations.
First War Patrol
The USS Devilfish embarked on its first war patrol on December 31, 1944. The submarine made its way to Saipan for refueling from January 12 to January 15, 1945. During this patrol, Devilfish operated in perilous waters around Kii Suido and Bungo Suido near Shikoku Island. As part of its mission, the submarine served as a lifeguard for Army pilots involved in bombing operations against Japan. The role of a lifeguard submarine was critical; it provided a safe recovery point for downed aviators in hostile territories.
Second War Patrol
After returning to Guam for refitting from February 13 to March 15, 1945, the Devilfish set off on its second war patrol on March 16. Assigned to patrol between Sagami Wan and the northern Nanpō Islands, it encountered grave danger when attacked by a kamikaze plane on March 20. The plane collided with Devilfish while it was submerging, resulting in severe damage to its mast structure and causing significant water leakage. Despite these challenges, Devilfish managed to return to Saipan for repairs before continuing its mission.
Third War Patrol
On May 20, after repairs were conducted at Pearl Harbor, the USS Devilfish initiated its third war patrol. Operating in Bungo Suido and off northern Honshū, Devilfish sought enemy targets with determination. On June 16, amidst rough seas, it attempted to engage an enemy submarine that was transporting a midget submarine on its deck but failed to secure a hit. Later that month, on June 26, an attack on an escort ship also proved unsuccessful as the target evaded destruction. Throughout this patrol, Devilfish continued its lifeguard duties during strikes related to the Okinawa operation and facilitated medical evacuations for injured aviators from other submarines.
Fourth War Patrol
Following another refit at Guam from July 7 to August 2, 1945, Devilfish embarked on its fourth war patrol with a primary mission focused on lifeguard support for raids conducted by the Third Fleet against Japan. On August 10, while patrolling Tori Shima, Devilfish engaged in bombardment operations before departing for Midway and San Francisco after hostilities ended. This final war patrol underscored the transition of U.S. naval strategy as it shifted towards post-war activities and rehabilitation efforts.
Post-War Service and Decommissioning
Upon returning from its operational duties in World War II, USS Devilfish was placed into reserve service on April 18, 1946. It remained out of active commission until September 30 of that same year when it officially went out of commission in reserve status. The submarine was then laid up in the Pacific Reserve Fleet and redesignated AGSS-292 as it transitioned away from frontline service.
Despite being removed from active service following World War II, the legacy of USS Devilfish continued until it was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on March 1, 1967. Its storied history during wartime had left an indelible mark on naval operations.
Sinking of USS Devilfish
The end of USS Devilfish came not through enemy action but as part of a test conducted by another submarine. On August 14, 1968, as part of a MK 16 MOD 8 torpedo test at a location off San Francisco, California (37°5′N 124°8′W), USS Wahoo (SS-565) sank USS Devilfish in approximately 12,000 feet of water. This event marked not only the physical demise of this historic vessel but also symbolized a shift in naval technology and testing procedures during the Cold War era.
Awards and Honors
Throughout her service during World War II, USS Devilfish earned recognition for her contributions to military efforts with three battle stars awarded for her involvement in significant campaigns. Notably, her second war patrol was designated as “successful,” affirming her effectiveness in fulfilling naval objectives during active combat operations.
Conclusion
The USS Devilfish represents a significant chapter in U.S. naval history as part of the Balao-class submarines that served during World War II. From its construction and commissioning through multiple war patrols to its eventual sinking during testing exercises decades later, Devilfish exemplifies the evolution of submarine warfare and naval strategy during crucial periods of American military history. Its legacy continues to be remembered through historical records and accounts detailing its operational achievements and contributions to national defense.
Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).