USS Charr SS-328
The USS Charr (SS-328) was a Balao-class submarine built during World War II, a time of rapid naval advancements. It was laid down on July 16, 1943, at the Electric Boat Company in Groton, Connecticut, a shipyard famous for its submarine expertise. The Charr launched on May 28, 1944, sponsored by Mrs. John R. Moore, and was commissioned into the U.S. Navy on September 23, 1944, with Lieutenant Commander Francis E. Brown at the helm. This submarine was part of a larger effort to strengthen the U.S. Navy's underwater fleet, crucial in the Pacific Theater.
The Charr was named after the charr, a freshwater fish known for its resilience and adaptability—traits perfect for a submarine. Naming submarines after sea creatures was a Navy tradition, symbolizing stealth and agility. The USS Charr carried this legacy, embodying its namesake's characteristics throughout its service.
The USS Charr boasted the robust Balao-class design, an upgrade from the earlier Gato-class submarines. It featured a stronger pressure hull, allowing it to dive deeper—up to 400 feet. The Charr was armed with ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, six in the bow and four in the stern, and could carry 24 torpedoes. It also had a 5-inch deck gun and anti-aircraft weapons, making it a formidable opponent both underwater and on the surface.
The USS Charr's legacy in the U.S. Navy is marked by its significant contributions during World War II and the early Cold War. During the war, the Charr completed five war patrols, sinking enemy vessels and gathering valuable intelligence. Post-war, it participated in training exercises and fleet operations, maintaining Navy readiness during the tense early Cold War years. The Charr's history highlights the strategic importance of submarines in naval warfare and their evolving role in national defense.
As a Balao-class submarine, the USS Charr was designed for long-range patrols and offensive operations against enemy shipping. The Balao-class was the most numerous class of submarines built by the U.S. during World War II, with 120 units completed. These submarines operated independently for extended periods, equipped with advanced sonar and radar for detection and navigation. The Balao-class aimed to disrupt enemy supply lines and gather intelligence, missions the USS Charr executed with distinction.
The commissioning of the USS Charr marked the start of its active service. After commissioning, it underwent shakedown cruises and training exercises to prepare its crew for combat. These trials ensured both the submarine and its crew were ready for wartime challenges. The Charr's commissioning was a testament to the industrial might and technological prowess of the U.S. during World War II, as well as the dedication and skill of the men who served aboard her.
USS Charr SS-328: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Charr (SS-328) was a Balao-class submarine, a class known for its tough design and big role in World War II. These subs were an upgrade from the earlier Gato-class, with a stronger pressure hull made of high-tensile steel. This allowed them to dive deeper—up to 400 feet, compared to the Gato's 300 feet. The Charr was 311 feet 9 inches long, with a beam of 27 feet 3 inches and a draft of 15 feet 3 inches. This design struck a good balance between strength and efficiency, letting the sub handle long underwater missions.
Tech-wise, the USS Charr was pretty advanced for its time. It had four General Motors Model 16-248 V16 diesel engines for surface travel, generating a total of 5,400 horsepower. When submerged, it used electric motors powered by batteries, reaching speeds of up to 8.75 knots underwater. The Charr was also equipped with advanced sonar and radar systems, like the SJ surface-search radar and the SD air-search radar, boosting its ability to detect threats. These tech features made the USS Charr a strong opponent in underwater warfare.
When it came to weapons, the USS Charr was ready to take on enemy ships. It had ten 21-inch torpedo tubes—six at the bow and four at the stern—capable of launching the Mark 14 and later the Mark 18 electric torpedoes. The sub could carry up to 24 torpedoes, packing a serious punch for its missions. Plus, the Charr had a 5-inch/25 caliber deck gun for surface fights and shore bombardments. This mix of torpedoes and deck gun meant the USS Charr could effectively target enemy ships and coastal targets.
The Charr's weaponry was rounded out with anti-aircraft defenses. It had a 40mm Bofors and a 20mm Oerlikon cannon, crucial for defending against air attacks, especially when surfaced or in hostile waters. With these weapons, the USS Charr wasn't just a hunter-killer sub; it could also defend itself against various threats, making it a versatile and tough part of the US Navy's fleet.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Charr (SS-328) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the heartfelt memories shared in its guestbook. One such memory comes from Matt Gus Campbell, who served aboard the submarine in 1962 as an Electrician's Mate Third Class (EM3(SS)). Campbell's recollection paints a vivid picture of his transformative journey aboard the USS Charr, highlighting the profound impact the vessel and its crew had on his life.
Campbell describes his initial state as a "raw boot," a term used to denote a new and inexperienced sailor. His entry into the world of submarines was marked by a steep learning curve and the rigorous demands of submarine service. However, the officers and crew of the USS Charr took on the challenge of molding him into a capable sailor and, eventually, a qualified submariner. This transformation was no small feat, requiring patience, dedication, and a strong sense of camaraderie among the crew.
The process of becoming a submariner is known to be grueling, involving extensive training, drills, and the development of specialized skills necessary for operating and maintaining a submarine. Campbell's gratitude towards his shipmates is palpable, as he acknowledges the collective effort that went into his development. The sense of brotherhood and mutual support among the crew members is a recurring theme in his memory, underscoring the unique bond that forms among those who serve together in such close quarters and under challenging conditions.
Campbell's experience aboard the USS Charr is a testament to the enduring legacy of the submarine and its crew. It highlights the personal growth and professional development that can occur within the demanding environment of submarine service. His story is a reminder of the significant role that mentorship, teamwork, and perseverance play in shaping the lives of those who serve in the Navy's silent service.
USS Charr SS-328: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Charr (SS-328) was a remarkable submarine that saw many changes during its service. Commissioned in 1944, it was part of the Balao-class, known for its impressive range, speed, and durability. After World War II, Charr was modernized under the Fleet Snorkel program in the late 1940s and early 1950s. This upgrade included a snorkel system, allowing it to run its diesel engines while submerged, boosting its stealth and endurance. The conning tower got a sleek makeover, and its sonar and radar systems were enhanced for better detection.
Charr's missions evolved with its tech upgrades. During World War II, it focused on anti-shipping patrols, reconnaissance, and rescuing downed pilots. After the war, its role shifted to anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence-gathering during the Cold War. With advanced sonar and the snorkel, Charr could track enemy subs more effectively, playing a key role in the Navy's ASW strategy. It also took part in training exercises, sharpening the skills of its crew and other naval units.
Charr's contributions were significant. In World War II, it completed six war patrols, sinking enemy ships and gathering vital intelligence for the Allies in the Pacific. These efforts earned it multiple battle stars and commendations. Post-war, Charr remained a valuable asset, participating in Cold War exercises and patrols that helped maintain U.S. maritime dominance. Its adaptability and relevance highlighted the importance of tech upgrades and strategic flexibility.
The USS Charr (SS-328) was a testament to the dynamic nature of naval warfare and the need for continuous improvement. From its World War II role to Cold War missions, Charr showed how tech upgrades could enhance mission capabilities and fleet contributions. Its storied service reflects the U.S. Navy's evolution in response to changing threats and tech advancements. Charr stands as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and strategic importance in naval history.
USS Charr SS-328: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
The USS Charr (SS-328) was a remarkable vessel that saw many changes during its time with the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1944, it was a Balao-class submarine, known for its impressive range and durability. After World War II, Charr was modernized under the Fleet Snorkel program in the late 1940s and early 1950s. This upgrade included a snorkel system, allowing it to run its diesel engines while submerged, boosting its stealth and endurance. The conning tower was streamlined, and its sonar and radar systems were enhanced to improve detection capabilities.
Charr's missions evolved alongside its technological upgrades. During World War II, it focused on anti-shipping patrols, reconnaissance, and rescuing downed aviators. After the war, its role shifted to anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence-gathering during the Cold War. With advanced sonar and the snorkel, Charr could better detect and track enemy submarines, playing a key role in the Navy's ASW strategy. It also participated in training exercises, sharpening the skills of its crew and other naval units.
The USS Charr made significant contributions to the fleet. During World War II, it completed six war patrols, sinking enemy vessels and gathering crucial intelligence for Allied operations in the Pacific. Its effectiveness earned it multiple battle stars and commendations. In the post-war era, Charr remained a valuable asset, participating in Cold War exercises and patrols that helped maintain U.S. maritime dominance. Its adaptability and continued relevance highlighted the importance of technological upgrades and strategic flexibility.
The USS Charr (SS-328) exemplified the dynamic nature of naval warfare and the need for continuous improvement. From its World War II role to its Cold War missions, Charr showed how technological upgrades could enhance mission capabilities and fleet contributions. Its storied service history reflects the U.S. Navy's evolution in response to changing threats and technological advancements. The USS Charr stands as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and strategic importance in naval history.
USS Charr SS-328 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Balao Class Submarine |
| Commissioned | September 23, 1944 |
| Displacement | 2,414 tons |
| Length | 311.9 feet |
| Beam | 27.3 feet |
| Draft | 15.3 feet |
| Speed | 20.25 knots |
| Complement | 66 |