USS Corporal SS-346
The USS Corporal (SS-346) was a Tench-class submarine, not a Balao-class, built during the tail end of World War II. Her keel was laid down on November 27, 1943, at the Electric Boat Company in Groton, Connecticut, a shipyard famous for its submarine expertise. She was launched on June 10, 1945, and officially joined the U.S. Navy on November 9, 1945. Though she missed the war, the USS Corporal was part of a larger effort to strengthen the Navy's underwater fleet, which was crucial in the Pacific Theater.
Named after the corporal, a rank in the U.S. Marine Corps and Army, the USS Corporal followed a tradition of naming submarines after marine creatures or military terms. This name honored the valor and dedication of non-commissioned officers, the backbone of military units. It reflected the Navy's appreciation for leadership and duty at all levels.
The USS Corporal boasted advanced sonar and radar systems for her time. Tench-class submarines, like the Corporal, had improved pressure hulls, allowing them to dive deeper than earlier models. She was armed with ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, six in the bow and four in the stern, carrying up to 24 torpedoes. A 5-inch deck gun and anti-aircraft weapons made her a formidable opponent both on the surface and underwater.
During the Cold War, the USS Corporal left her mark with significant contributions. Post-World War II, she underwent several upgrades, including the GUPPY conversion, enhancing her underwater speed and endurance. She served in various roles, from intelligence gathering to anti-submarine warfare training and fleet exercises. Her service record highlights the adaptability and longevity of the Tench-class submarines, which remained vital to the Navy well into the Cold War.
The Tench-class, to which the USS Corporal belonged, was designed for long-range patrols and offensive operations against enemy shipping. An evolution of the Gato-class, these submarines featured stronger pressure hulls and greater operational depth. They were built to operate independently for long periods, perfect for the vast Pacific Ocean. Their primary mission was to disrupt enemy supply lines, gather intelligence, and engage enemy vessels.
The USS Corporal's commissioning on November 9, 1945, marked the start of a service life spanning over three decades. Her initial post-commissioning period involved rigorous testing and shakedown cruises to ensure all systems were operational. Although she was commissioned too late for World War II action, she quickly became a key player in the Navy's peacetime operations. Her commissioning underscored the Navy's commitment to a robust and versatile submarine fleet ready for post-war challenges.
USS Corporal SS-346: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Corporal (SS-346) was a Balao-class submarine, a class known for its sturdy build and cutting-edge design during World War II. These subs had a double-hulled structure, which made them tough and buoyant. The outer hull could handle a lot of pressure, letting the sub dive deeper than older models. Inside, the pressure hull kept the crew and vital systems safe from the crushing depths. The USS Corporal was about 311 feet long, with a beam of 27 feet and a draft of 15 feet, making it a powerful force in the water. It also had a conning tower, the command center when submerged.
The USS Corporal was packed with the latest tech of its time. It had advanced sonar and radar systems, essential for spotting enemy ships and navigating underwater. Four diesel engines powered it on the surface, while four electric motors took over when submerged. It could hit 20 knots on the surface and 9 knots underwater. The diesel engines charged the batteries for the electric motors, letting the sub stay underwater longer. It also had a snorkel system, so it could run its diesel engines while submerged at periscope depth, reducing the chance of being spotted by enemies.
When it came to firepower, the USS Corporal was ready to take on enemy ships and subs. It had ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, six in the bow and four in the stern, launching Mark 14 and later Mark 18 electric torpedoes. These were its main weapons, designed to deliver powerful hits to enemy vessels. The sub could carry up to 24 torpedoes, allowing for several attacks before needing more. It also had a 5-inch/25 caliber deck gun for surface combat, useful against smaller ships or shore targets.
The USS Corporal's arsenal included smaller arms for defense and close combat. It had .50 caliber and .30 caliber machine guns mounted on the deck for anti-aircraft and surface defense. These machine guns offered a rapid-fire option against enemy planes and smaller threats. With its mix of torpedoes, deck guns, and machine guns, the USS Corporal was a versatile and formidable opponent in naval warfare. Its blend of advanced tech and strong weaponry meant it could handle a variety of missions, from reconnaissance and patrol to direct combat with enemy forces.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Corporal (SS-346) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections paint a vivid picture of life aboard the submarine, highlighting camaraderie, leadership, and unique experiences that have left lasting impressions.
David Aadnesen, who served as an E4 in 1963, recalls a particularly intriguing and somewhat mysterious chapter in the submarine's history. He mentions the presence of Marines on the USS Corporal and their subsequent departure into Vietnam. This period involved classified flights, and David is currently seeking any information that could assist his husband in obtaining Agent Orange benefits. His memory underscores the secretive and critical missions that the submarine undertook during a tumultuous time in history.
Bill Hallock, who served as a YN3 SS/DV in 1972, reflects on his seamless integration into the crew, thanks to his prior qualifications. He fondly remembers the outstanding crew and the exceptional Chief of the Boat (COB), J. Fields. Bill's role as the leading seaman brought him immense joy, and he cherishes the camaraderie and the sense of belonging he felt aboard the USS Corporal. His account highlights the strong bonds formed among the crew members and the leadership that guided them.
Raymond Nowak, who served as a SN(SS) in 1961, shares his gratitude for the patience and guidance provided by the seasoned World War II chiefs. He reminisces about the great boat, the excellent commanding officer (CO), and the camaraderie among the crew. For Raymond, serving on the USS Corporal was a wonderful experience that shaped his early years. His memory emphasizes the mentorship and support that young sailors received from their more experienced counterparts.
These shared memories from David, Bill, and Raymond collectively illustrate the USS Corporal as more than just a submarine; it was a vessel where lifelong friendships were forged, leadership was exemplified, and young sailors were molded by the wisdom of their elders. The experiences aboard the USS Corporal have left an indelible mark on its crew members, reflecting a legacy of service, camaraderie, and enduring respect for one another.
USS Corporal SS-346: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Corporal (SS-346) had quite a journey through its service life, adapting to the changing needs of the U.S. Navy. Commissioned in 1945 as a Balao-class submarine, it was initially built for long-range patrols and anti-ship warfare during World War II. But as the Cold War heated up, the Navy needed more from its subs. So, in the early 1950s, the Corporal underwent the GUPPY (Greater Underwater Propulsion Power Program) conversion. This upgrade streamlined its hull, boosted its battery systems, and added a snorkel for longer submerged operations. These changes made the Corporal faster and more enduring underwater, turning it into a powerful tool in the Navy's arsenal.
The Corporal's missions evolved alongside its tech upgrades. Originally focused on anti-surface warfare, it soon took on roles in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence gathering. The GUPPY conversion improved its sonar and electronic warfare systems, making it better at tracking enemy subs. While it didn't launch Harpoon missiles, it was equipped with advanced torpedoes, expanding its offensive capabilities. These upgrades allowed the Corporal to handle a variety of missions, from patrolling strategic maritime chokepoints to conducting covert reconnaissance in hostile waters.
The USS Corporal made significant contributions during the Cold War. It played a key role in maintaining the balance of power with its deterrence capabilities. Operating undetected in enemy waters, it gathered valuable intelligence on Soviet naval movements. The Corporal also took part in numerous NATO exercises, boosting interoperability with allied navies and supporting collective security efforts. Its presence in crucial maritime regions was a constant reminder of the U.S. Navy's global reach and strategic depth.
Beyond its operational duties, the USS Corporal was a training ground for many submariners, sharpening their skills in underwater warfare and navigation. The experiences gained aboard the Corporal were crucial in preparing the next generation of submariners for modern naval challenges. Its storied career, marked by technological innovation and strategic importance, highlights its lasting legacy within the U.S. Navy. The USS Corporal not only adapted to the changing demands of its time but also set a standard for excellence and versatility in submarine operations.
USS Corporal SS-346: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Corporal (SS-346) was a remarkable submarine with a rich history of service. Commissioned in 1945, she joined the Atlantic Fleet, diving into the Cold War's early days. Her main job? Gathering intelligence and keeping a watchful eye on the Atlantic. With top-notch sonar and torpedo systems, Corporal was a key player in anti-submarine warfare, a vital part of the Navy's strategy against Soviet threats.
During the Korean War, Corporal didn't see direct combat but played a crucial support role. She was sent to the Pacific, where her stealthy reconnaissance missions provided essential intelligence to United Nations forces. Operating undetected, she gathered info on enemy movements and supply lines, proving her worth in the war effort. Her presence also acted as a deterrent, showcasing US naval strength and commitment to regional stability.
In the Vietnam War, Corporal showed her versatility again. She took part in covert operations, conducting surveillance and reconnaissance along the Vietnamese coast. These missions were vital for tracking North Vietnamese supply routes and gathering intelligence on enemy positions. Thanks to her stealth and advanced tech, Corporal operated in contested waters with minimal detection risk, giving the US Navy a tactical edge. The intel she gathered was crucial for planning naval operations throughout the conflict.
Throughout her service, USS Corporal earned numerous awards and commendations. She received the Navy Unit Commendation for her outstanding Cold War service, highlighting her role in national security. She also earned several campaign medals for her contributions during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. The crew's professionalism and dedication were recognized with various individual awards, reflecting the high standards aboard Corporal. These honors underscore her significant impact on US naval operations and her lasting legacy in maritime history.
USS Corporal SS-346 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Balao Class Submarine |
| Commissioned | November 9, 1945 |
| Displacement | 2,414 tons |
| Length | 311.9 feet |
| Beam | 27.3 feet |
| Draft | 15.3 feet |
| Speed | 20.25 knots |
| Complement | 66 |