USS Queenfish SS-393
The USS Queenfish (SS-393) was a Balao-class submarine built during World War II, a time of rapid naval advancements. Her keel was laid on July 27, 1943, at the Portsmouth Navy Yard in Kittery, Maine. She was launched on November 30, 1943, with Mrs. Robert A. Theobald as her sponsor. Queenfish was part of a crucial effort to strengthen the U.S. submarine fleet, which played a vital role in the Pacific Theater. Designed for durability and stealth, she was built to endure long underwater missions.
Named after the queenfish, a swift and agile marine species, the submarine embodied these traits, essential for her wartime role. The queenfish, or Seriphus politus, thrives in the eastern Pacific, symbolizing the submarine's prowess in the vast ocean during the war. This name carried pride and tradition, linking the vessel to nature and the qualities admired in naval combat.
Queenfish boasted advanced sonar and radar systems, cutting-edge for her time. These systems let her detect enemy ships and submarines from afar, offering a tactical edge. Equipped with ten torpedo tubes—six in the bow and four in the stern—she could engage multiple targets at once. Her hull was designed to withstand depths of up to 400 feet, making her one of the more resilient submarines in the U.S. Navy during the war.
Queenfish's legacy in the U.S. Navy is significant. She exemplified the power of submarine warfare in disrupting enemy supply lines and gathering intelligence. Her successful patrols during World War II, sinking numerous enemy ships, contributed to the Allied success in the Pacific. Queenfish's achievements highlighted the strategic value of submarines, leading to continued investment in this area. The lessons from her operations informed post-war submarine design and tactics, cementing submarines' importance in modern naval strategy.
As a Balao-class submarine, Queenfish was an improvement over the earlier Gato class. Balao-class submarines were designed for long-range missions, with enhanced fuel capacity and better living conditions for the crew. They operated independently for extended periods, conducting reconnaissance, laying mines, and engaging enemy vessels. The Balao class marked a significant step forward in submarine design, incorporating lessons from earlier classes and the evolving demands of naval warfare.
Queenfish was officially commissioned on March 11, 1944, with Commander Charles E. Loughlin at the helm. The commissioning ceremony marked her entry into active service, ready for her mission in the Pacific Theater. The crew underwent rigorous training, honing their skills in navigation, torpedo handling, and stealth operations. The commissioning of Queenfish was a testament to the United States' industrial and military capabilities, as well as the dedication and bravery of the men who served aboard her.
USS Queenfish SS-393: Structure, Technology, Armament, and Weaponry
The USS Queenfish (SS-393) was a Balao-class submarine, a class known for its tough design and big improvements over earlier models. The Balao-class had a stronger pressure hull made from high-tensile steel, letting it dive deeper, up to 400 feet. It 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 great balance between size and agility, making it a deadly hunter in the vast Pacific during World War II. Its streamlined hull and conning tower were built for better underwater performance, cutting down on drag and boosting speed and stealth.
The USS Queenfish was packed with cutting-edge tech for its time. It had advanced sonar and radar systems, crucial for spotting enemy ships and navigating tricky waters. Four Fairbanks-Morse 38D8-1/8 nine-cylinder opposed-piston diesel engines powered it, driving electrical generators. These generators charged the sub's batteries, which powered the electric motors for underwater movement. This diesel-electric system let the Queenfish move quietly when submerged, a huge advantage for stealth missions. It could hit speeds of up to 20.25 knots on the surface and 8.75 knots underwater.
When it came to weapons, the USS Queenfish was a force to be reckoned with. It had ten 21-inch torpedo tubes, six in the bow and four in the stern, ready to unleash a barrage of torpedoes on enemy ships. It carried 24 torpedoes, including the Mark 14 and the more reliable Mark 18 electric torpedoes. These could cause serious damage to enemy vessels, making the Queenfish a major threat to Japanese shipping and naval forces. It also had a 5-inch/25 caliber deck gun for surface fights and shore bombardments, plus anti-aircraft guns for defense against enemy planes.
The Queenfish's weaponry was backed by sophisticated fire control systems, boosting its combat power. The Torpedo Data Computer (TDC) was key, letting the crew calculate firing solutions with impressive accuracy. This mechanical analog computer used data from the sub's sensors, like sonar and periscope observations, to figure out the best firing parameters for torpedoes. The Queenfish also had a periscope and radar mast, giving vital info on enemy positions and movements. These tech advancements, along with the crew's skill and training, helped the USS Queenfish carry out successful patrols and play a big role in the Allied war effort in the Pacific Theater.
Crew Accounts of Time Aboard
The USS Queenfish (SS-393) holds a special place in the hearts of its former crew members, as evidenced by the memories shared in its guestbook. These recollections span different years and roles, painting a vivid picture of life aboard the submarine.
George Hecker, who served as a Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) in 1945, reflects on his four-year tenure aboard the Queenfish, which he describes as the most enjoyable period of his Naval service, aside from his two years commanding the USS Tirante (SS-420). Hecker fondly remembers his shipmates as highly skilled professionals whose personalities made service aboard the Queenfish a pleasure.
Brun Imberg, an Engine Room Third Class (EN3 SS) in 1955, recalls working under Moose Kinder and alongside Pat Collins in the engine room. He vividly remembers a trip to Hawaii to make the "Growler" movie and serving under Captains Lowman and Moore. Imberg expresses a desire to reconnect with his old shipmates, indicating the strong bonds formed during his service.
Rod Loyear, who served as an Electronics Technician Third Class (ET3) in 1960, shares that he only served on the Queenfish long enough to get qualified, a period of seven months, before being reassigned to the USS Ethan Allen (SSBN-608). He notes that his brother-in-law, Curtis Jacobson, a Chief Engine Room Technician (Chief EN), was also serving on the Queenfish at the time, highlighting the familial connections that sometimes existed within the crew.
Peter Espinoza, who served in 1961, recalls qualifying for his Submarine Service (SS) and being part of the decommissioning process of the Queenfish. He is particularly interested in finding information about a fellow shipmate, Guiemo Willie Baca, an Engine Room Third Class (EN3), who was from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and engaged to a woman named Arlene who worked for United Airlines. Espinoza's search for Baca underscores the lasting friendships and connections formed during their time aboard the submarine.
These shared memories from the crew of the USS Queenfish (SS-393) highlight the camaraderie, professional respect, and enduring friendships that characterized their service. Each recollection adds a unique layer to the rich history of the submarine and its crew, illustrating the profound impact of their shared experiences.
USS Queenfish SS-393: Upgrades, Mission Capabilities, and Contribution to the Fleet
The USS Queenfish (SS-393) was a remarkable submarine that adapted to the changing needs of the U.S. Navy over the years. Commissioned in 1944, this Balao-class submarine was initially equipped with cutting-edge sonar, radar, and torpedo systems. But as the Cold War heated up, the Queenfish underwent several upgrades. In the 1950s, it got better sonar and fire control systems, which made it more precise in targeting and detection. The hull was also reinforced for deeper dives, boosting its stealth and survivability.
With these upgrades, the Queenfish's mission capabilities grew. Originally built for anti-ship warfare in World War II, it evolved to tackle anti-submarine warfare (ASW), intelligence gathering, and special operations. The improved sonar and radar made it a strong ASW platform, able to track enemy subs effectively. Advanced communication systems allowed it to send crucial intelligence back to fleet command, offering insights into enemy strategies. The Queenfish also supported covert operations, deploying special forces for reconnaissance and sabotage missions.
The USS Queenfish made significant contributions to the Navy. During World War II, it disrupted Japanese supply lines and sank enemy ships, earning multiple battle stars. After the war, it remained a valuable asset, participating in training exercises and fleet maneuvers. Its ASW capabilities were especially important during the Cold War, countering the Soviet submarine threat. The intelligence it gathered was vital for U.S. naval operations and policy decisions.
The USS Queenfish (SS-393) showcased the adaptability and resilience of the U.S. Navy's submarine force. Through upgrades, it maintained its technological edge and expanded its mission capabilities, staying relevant in a changing strategic landscape. From wartime victories to Cold War vigilance, the Queenfish's legacy is one of innovation and excellence in naval warfare.
USS Queenfish SS-393: Deployments, Role in Major Conflicts, Awards, and Commendations
USS Queenfish (SS-393) had a remarkable service record, especially during World War II. Commissioned in 1944, she set out on her first war patrol in September, navigating the East China Sea and the Yellow Sea. During this mission, Queenfish made a name for herself by sinking several Japanese ships, including the 10,000-ton transport Awa Maru. This early success established her as a powerful force in the Pacific Theater.
Throughout the war, Queenfish completed six war patrols, each crucial and successful. She wasn't just about offensive operations; she also carried out reconnaissance, provided lifeguard duties for downed pilots, and took part in special operations. One memorable mission was the rescue of 18 British and Australian prisoners of war from the Japanese-held island of Formosa (now Taiwan). These missions highlighted the versatility and critical role of submarines like Queenfish in achieving broader strategic goals during the war.
Queenfish's outstanding performance didn't go unnoticed. She received the Presidential Unit Citation for her exceptional service during her first, third, and fourth war patrols. This prestigious award recognized the crew's bravery, skill, and effectiveness in combat. Additionally, Queenfish earned six battle stars for her World War II service, solidifying her legacy as one of the most successful submarines of her time. These honors were a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the officers and crew aboard.
After World War II, Queenfish continued to serve the U.S. Navy in peacetime. She was decommissioned in 1946 but recommissioned in 1951 to support the Navy's training and development programs during the early Cold War years. Although she didn't see combat during this period, Queenfish played a crucial role in advancing submarine tactics and technology. She was finally decommissioned in 1963, but her storied history and the valor of her crew remain a proud chapter in U.S. naval history.
USS Queenfish SS-393 Ship Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | Balao Class Submarine |
| Commissioned | March 11, 1944 |
| Displacement | 2,414 tons |
| Length | 311.9 feet |
| Beam | 27.3 feet |
| Draft | 15.3 feet |
| Speed | 20.25 knots |
| Complement | 66 |