The USS Harder, a renowned 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 after 80 years. The submarine was found 3,000ft below water off the Philippines’ northern island of Luzon where it was sunk by enemy forces on 29 August 1944, along with its crew of 79 men. During one of its final war patrols, the Harder managed to sink three Japanese destroyers and heavily damage two others over four days, leading to a change in the Japanese battle plans and a delay in their carrier force.
The discovery of the USS Harder serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our military personnel during wartime. Retired US admiral Samuel J. Cox, who heads the US Navy’s History and Heritage Command (NHHC), emphasized that victory comes at a price, as does freedom, especially in the case of this brave submarine and its crew.
The Philippines played a significant role in the Pacific battlegrounds of World War Two as the US fought to retake its former colony from the Japanese Imperial Army. The waters in and around the Philippine islands are home to many famous World War Two shipwrecks. The USS Harder was known for its motto “Hit ’em harder”, which symbolized its determination to succeed at all costs.
The Lost 52 Project is dedicated to finding all 52 US submarines lost during World War Two. After years of searching, they finally uncovered this remarkable vessel resting upright on its keel or spine and mostly intact. The US Navy awarded both the submarine and its crew the Presidential Unit Citation for their extraordinary heroism during their service. Additionally, Commodore Sam Dealey, skipper of USS Harder, was posthumously awarded
