Harder (SS-257) steaming on the surface of Narragansett Bay, 20 January 1943. Photo: Courtesy of the Naval History & Heritage Command.
Eighty years ago, the USS Harder (SS-257) and her crew of 79 brave men were lost, victims of an enemy depth charge. This Gato-class submarine served with remarkable distinction during WWII, becoming a symbol of honor and courage. Under the command of Samuel D. Dealey, a fearless and innovative leader, the Harder earned a legendary reputation in the Pacific Theater. Dealey’s daring tactics led him to be dubbed “The Destroyer Killer,” a testament to the submarine’s formidable success.
The Destroyer Killer
Throughout six perilous patrols, Dealey and his devoted crew sank 18 enemy vessels, including five Japanese destroyers. Their achievements secured Dealey not only with his enduring nickname but also as one of the greatest submarine captains of the war.
Last Operation
Tragically, in August 1944, the Harder met her fate near Dasol Bay in the Philippines. It was long suspected that the submarine had been lost to a depth-charge attack by a Japanese escort vessel.
These suspicions were finally confirmed by the dedicated efforts of the Lost 52 Project, (www.lost52project.org), a team of marine engineers, historians, and underwater archaeologists devoted to locating and honoring the submarines lost during World War II.
After decades of uncertainty, the group located and identified the wreckage of the Harder near Dasol Bay resting upright at a depth of 3,000 feet.
Lost 52 Project
4D photogrammetry model of USS Harder (SS 257) wreck site by The Lost 52 Project. The Lost 52 Project scanned the entire boat and stitched all the images together in a multi-dimensional model used to study and explore the site. / Credit: Tim Taylor and the Lost 52 Project.
While they remain on eternal patrol, the discovery of their final resting place ensures the USS Harder and her crew will never be forgotten. Their story of courage and sacrifice is a lasting tribute to the U.S. Navy’s submarine force.
Eternal Patrol
The legacy of America’s submarine service during WWII will always stand out in the annals of U.S. Naval history. Through museums, memorials, and commemorations, the members of this elite force will always be remembered and honored for the sacrifices they made.
“Lest we forget these boats on eternal patrol.”
To the 375 officers and 3131 crewmen of the 52 U.S. submarines who sacrificed their lives during World War II. The passing years have not diminished your gallantry nor lessened the gratitude our country owes you for your sacrifice.
Further Reading
