Submarine

WWII Systems

Systems Overview

Systems Overview

Torpedo Troubles

America entered World War II with inferior torpedoes that were often erratic, ran deeper than they were set, and exploded prematurely or not at all.

Sonar

Sonar (SOund Navigation And Ranging) is a vital part of a submarine's ability to detect, track, and attack the enemy.

Water Distillation

Besides the necessity of fresh water for drinking, cooking, and washing, World War II submarines needed distilled water for their battery cells.

Parts Wishlist

Here is a listing of the most wanted parts and equipment for the restoration of the historic World War II submarine USS Bowfin.

Secrets of the Sub

Submarine Rescues

A critical task performed by the US submarine force during World War II, was the rescuing of downed pilots and air crews; They were so efficient at it, that they rescued 520 US airmen from the Pacific Ocean waters. One of those rescued, went on to become President of the United States.

Rescueing George H. W. Bush

Former US President George H. W. Bush Sr. He was rescued by the USS Finback after being shot down while he was on an air strike mission over Chichi Shima in the Bonin Islands during 2 September 1944.

USS Tang Group Photo

Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Richard H. O'Kane (center), poses with the twenty-two aircrewmen that Tang rescued off Truk during the carrier air raids there on 29 April-1 May 1944. The photograph was taken upon Tang's return to Pearl Harbor from her second war patrol, in May 1944.