The USS England’s Epic Story: How a Lone Destroyer Sank 6 Subs in 12 Days During WWII

In the midst of World War II, the USS England, a formidable destroyer escort of the United States Navy, etched its name in history by achieving a record that remains unmatched to this day. Within a span of only 12 days, this lone vessel successfully hunted and sank six enemy submarines in the Pacific, leveraging keen intelligence and exemplary naval tactics. This article delves into the details of the USS England’s remarkable missions, shedding light on its operational prowess and the heroic actions of its crew.

Into the Heart of the Pacific: The USS England Embarks on its Legendary Mission

Commissioned on December 10, 1943, the USS England was swiftly thrown into the chaotic waters of the Pacific Theater. With World War II raging, the United States Navy was in dire need of capable ships that could escort convoys and hunt down enemy submarines that threatened their logistics and military strength. The USS England was equipped for just such tasks, boasting an array of anti-submarine weapons that included the innovative Hedgehog projectile system, depth charges, and torpedoes.

On May 13, 1944, a crucial piece of intelligence came through. A transmission intercepted and decoded by the Fleet Radio Unit Pacific indicated that a Japanese submarine was due to arrive off Bougainville Island. In response, the USS England, along with two other destroyer escorts, the USS George and USS Raby, was dispatched to intercept the submarine.

The three ships were a part of a hunter-killer group, a naval tactic involving coordinated searches and attacks by multiple ships. Commanded by Commander Hamilton Haynes, the group set sail from Purvis Bay, ready for action. Their mission was clear: locate and neutralize the Japanese submarines attempting to enforce a blockade between the Admiralty Islands and the Caroline Islands.

A Lethal Game of Cat and Mouse: The USS England’s Unmatched Pursuit

As the group arrived in the targeted area, their training and equipment were put to the test. The USS England, under Lieutenant Commander Walton B. Pendleton, played a crucial role in this series of operations. The destroyer escort’s sonar systems picked up the enemy submarine, initiating a tense game of cat and mouse.

Employing the Hedgehog system, the USS England could launch a barrage of projectiles that would explode on contact with the submarine, unlike traditional depth charges that had to be set to explode at certain depths. This technology allowed the USS England to maintain sonar contact and enhance the accuracy of its attacks. Throughout this intense period, the destroyer escort’s crew worked tirelessly, launching multiple attacks against the submarines they tracked.

The effectiveness of the USS England and its fellow ships was undeniable. Within just 12 days, they sank six submarines. Each attack required careful coordination, precise navigation, and expert handling of weaponry. The crew’s morale was high, bolstered by each successful engagement, and their actions significantly disrupted enemy operations in the Pacific.

Unyielding Valor

Notably, the USS England’s service didn’t end with these impressive victories. The ship continued to serve throughout the war, involved in various other missions and engagements until it was severely damaged by a kamikaze attack off Okinawa on May 9, 1945. Despite the damage, the crew managed to save the ship from sinking, demonstrating the same resilience and bravery they had shown throughout the war.

The legacy of the USS England is a powerful reminder of the effectiveness of naval strategy and the courage of individual sailors. Its record of sinking six submarines in such a short period remains unparalleled, a clear demonstration of American naval power during World consumption.

In recognition of their extraordinary service, the USS England and its crew were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. Lieutenant Commander Pendleton received the Navy Cross for his leadership and tactical acumen. The story of the USS England is not just about a ship or a series of successful missions—it’s about the indomitable spirit of its crew and the significant impact they had on the war in the Pacific.