The Discovery of USS Herring: A Maritime War Grave
The wreck of the USS Herring, a U.S. Navy submarine lost during World War II, has been identified after decades of investigation. This submarine, which met its tragic fate on June 1, 1944, holds a significant place in naval history and serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.
A Brief History of USS Herring
Launched on January 15, 1942, at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, USS Herring was commissioned on May 4, 1942. This Gato-class submarine completed eight war patrols across the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, demonstrating remarkable prowess in naval warfare. Over its active service, Herring is credited with sinking seven enemy ships and participated in several high-stakes missions.
Under the command of Cmdr. David Zabriskie Jr., the submarine embarked on its final patrol on May 21, 1944, departing from Midway Island toward the Kuril Islands. During this eighth patrol, Herring engaged Japanese vessels near Matsuwa Island, successfully sinking two merchant ships: the Ishigaki Maru and Hokuyo Maru.
The Final Encounter
Shortly after its successful attack, USS Herring came under fire from Japanese shore batteries, which struck the submarine near its conning tower. After this encounter on June 1, 1944, the vessel, along with its crew of 83 sailors, was lost. For years, the location of Herring’s wreck remained a mystery, despite efforts and records from various military and research entities.
The Identification of the Wreck
The identification of the Herring wreck site came after an extensive review, aided by collaborative research from the Russian Geographic Society and American and Japanese researchers. Naval History and Heritage Command confirmed the given coordinates approximate to what Japanese records described: about 2 kilometers south of Point Tagan on Matsuwa Island.
The wreck lies upright, over 300 feet deep, revealing evident damage around its conning tower in recently captured images. This discovery underscores the technological advancements in underwater exploration and the persistent efforts of researchers dedicated to uncovering secrets from the past.
War Grave Status and Remembrance
USS Herring is now protected under U.S. law as a sunken military craft, and it will be treated as a war grave. The designation conveys not just respect for the vessel itself, but also reverence for the lives lost in the service of their country. Samuel J. Cox, director of the Naval History and Heritage Command, has emphasized that the discovery serves as “a powerful reminder” of the obligation owed to these brave sailors.
As a part of the 52 U.S. submarines lost during World War II, the tale of USS Herring extends beyond mere statistics; it embodies the spirit of sacrifice and the human cost of conflict, resonating with both veterans and future generations.
The Importance of Historical Preservation
The identification of USS Herring’s wreck also highlights the significance of preserving maritime heritage. Recognizing and protecting military shipwrecks allows for meaningful memorialization of those who served. It fosters a historical understanding of wartime efforts, while also educating the public about the consequences of global conflict.
In an era where many naval sites face potential threats from climate change and human activity, the stewardship of such sites becomes even more critical. Ensuring that these underwater monuments are respected honors the memory of those heroes who ventured into the depths in defense of their nation.
The Broader Context of WWII Submarine Operations
The story of USS Herring is just one facet of the immense and complex narrative that is World War II undersea warfare. The Gato-class submarines played a pivotal role in the U.S. Navy’s strategy, utilizing both stealth and agility to engage the powers of the Axis.
The effective utilization of submarines not only disrupted enemy supply lines but also contributed to several decisive victories. Understanding the intricacies of submarine warfare during the period can provide deeper insights into naval tactics and the human factors that shaped these engagements.
Continuing the Legacy
The unveiling of USS Herring’s wreck is not merely an archaeological success; it’s a call to action to remember and honor the sacrifices made during the tumultuous years of World War II. Each submerged vessel holds a story, and with every exploration, lost voices are brought back to the forefront of collective memory.
As research continues and technology evolves, opportunities to honor those who served will expand. The commitment to uncovering such histories allows us to build connections between past and present, ensuring that the legacy of bravery and sacrifice remains alive for generations to come.