5 Eerie World War II Relics Uncovered Underwater

World War II left behind many remnants scattered across the globe. Some are hidden deep in forests or isolated islands, while others lie beneath the ocean’s surface. These underwater relics offer a somber glimpse into the past. Here are five such artifacts, each with its unique story, recently discovered and studied.

The Wreck of the S.S. American Star

In the waters surrounding the Canary Islands lies the wreck of the American Star, a poignant reminder of maritime history during World War II. On January 17, 1994, two other towboats were called to assist Neftegaz 67 during an emergency. Amid the chaos, the crew aboard the American Star had to be rescued by helicopter. Left adrift, the ship eventually ran aground at Playa de Garcey off Fuerteventura’s west coast at 6:15 a.m. on January 18, 1994. Over the years, the American Star has become a haunting sight for visitors. Its silent, rusting hull rising from the ocean symbolizes both the relentless march of time and the enduring memories of those days.

German War Planes

During the World War II era, the German Air Force, known as the Luftwaffe, played a significant role. By late 1940, after the Norwegian campaign, the Luftwaffe’s X. Fliegerkorps arrived in Sicily, targeting the island of Malta. Their frequent air raids saw as many as 200 bombers attacking in waves each day. This extensive campaign featured aircraft like the Ju 88, a versatile German bomber used in various missions. Fast forward to 2019, a remote-sensing survey conducted by the University of Malta identified a potential wreck site of a Ju 88. Upon further exploration, the wreck was confirmed to be a Ju 88 lying upright on the sandy seabed at a depth of 348 feet, about 3.75 nautical miles northwest of Marsaskala. The nose section and tail sections showed noticeable damage, suggesting the plane might have been downed by an Allied aircraft.

Japanese Plane Wrecks in Palawan

In Coron Bay, Palawan, a series of shipwrecks serves as underwater relics from World War II. These sunken vessels offer a unique opportunity for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. There are twelve wartime ships resting at the ocean’s bottom, the result of an assault by the US Navy on the Imperial Japanese Navy in September 1944. These wrecks are spread out at depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters below sea level, making them accessible to divers of all experience levels. Among the notable sites is the wreck of a massive Japanese supply fleet, including the remains of a refrigeration ship weighing 9,723 tons and stretching 146.9 meters long. The area draws diving enthusiasts from around the world, who are eager to explore the silent remnants of a brutal past.

Vought F4U Corsair

Off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, lies the wreck of a Vought F4U Corsair, a fighter aircraft used by both the Navy and Marines. Known for its distinctive bent wings and unique engine sound, the Corsair played a crucial role during World War II. This particular plane sank in 1948 during a training mission after running out of fuel. Forced to make a water landing, the pilot escaped safely, but the props were bent backward, a clear sign of the emergency. This wreckage is now situated southeast of Oahu, drawing the interest of historians and divers alike. Its underwater resting place serves as a poignant reminder of the rigorous training and dangers faced by World War II pilots.

‘Ghost Ships’

The eruption of an underwater volcano near Tokyo in 2022 brought attention to around two dozen “ghost ships” near the Japanese island of Iwo Jima. These ships emerged from the seabed, reminders of the fierce Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945. Most of these vessels were Japanese transport ships, intentionally scuttled by the U.S. Navy after the battle. The sight of these ghost ships resurfacing owing to natural forces serves as a stark reminder of the battle that once raged in these waters. The eerie presence of these vessels underscores the enduring legacy of World War II, even decades after the conflict ended.