Discovery of USS Harder: A Symbol of WWII Victory and Sacrifice in the South China Sea

The USS Harder, a US Navy submarine that played a crucial role in sinking the most Japanese warships during World War Two, has been discovered in the South China Sea. The sunken submarine was found 3,000 feet below water off the coast of the Philippines’ northern island of Luzon, 80 years after it was sunk by enemy forces.

During its final war patrols, the USS Harder had an impressive record of sinking three Japanese destroyers and heavily damaging two others in just four days. This led to the Japanese having to alter their battle plans and delay their carrier force, ultimately contributing to their defeat. The discovery of the USS Harder serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for victory and freedom.

The Philippines played a significant role in the Pacific battlegrounds of World War Two, as the US fought to reclaim its former colony from the Japanese Imperial Army. The waters in and around the archipelago hold the remains of many famed World War Two battleships. The Lost 52 Project, dedicated to finding the 52 US submarines lost during World War Two, located the USS Harder.

The submarine was found upright on its keel, relatively intact, and was later awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its bravery during the war. Its fearless captain, Commodore Sam Dealey, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor,