The USS Harder, an iconic U.S. Navy submarine that was sunk 80 years ago during World War II, was located 3,000 feet below the ocean’s surface off the Philippine island of Luzon. The sub, which earned the nickname “Hit ’em HARDER,” was found sitting upright and relatively intact, with damage behind its conning tower from a Japanese depth charge. The Lost 52 Project, led by Tim Taylor, located the USS Harder using data collected to find submarines lost during World War II.
The USS Harder, led by famed Cmdr. Samuel D. Dealey, earned a legendary reputation during its fifth patrol by sinking three destroyers and heavily damaging two others in just four days. This forced a Japanese fleet to leave the area ahead of schedule, ultimately leading to Japan being defeated in the ensuing battle. However, the sub’s fortunes changed in late August 1944 when it was sunk off the coast of Bataan by an enemy escort ship and patrol boat. All 79 crew members aboard the Harder perished in the attack.
The Naval History and Heritage Command confirmed the wreck as the USS Harder due to the excellent state of preservation of the site and the quality of data collected by the Lost 52 Project. NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor the valor of the crew of the Harder, highlighting their daring attacks and heroic actions during World War II. The sub received the Presidential Unit Citation for its first five patrols, and Cmdr. Dealey was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership.
Tim Taylor, CEO of the Lost 52 Project, has also located other submarines lost during World War II, including the USS Grayback, USS Stickleback, and USS Grunion. Taylor’s work in locating these historic wrecks earned him a Distinguished Public Service Award from the Navy in 2021. Additionally, deep-sea explorers captured images of three shipwrecks from World War II’s Battle of Midway last September, including the first up-close photos of a Japanese aircraft carrier that sank during the historic battle in 1942. The discoveries made by Taylor and other explorers contribute to the preservation of history and honor the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War II.
The discovery of the USS Harder provides closure and recognition to the crewmembers who perished in the tragic sinking of the sub. Through the work of the Lost 52 Project and other deep-sea explorers, these historic wrecks are located and documented, ensuring that the sacrifices and valor of those who served in World War II are not forgotten. The preservation of these wrecks also allows for further study and exploration of these important historical sites, shedding light on the events that unfolded during the war and the bravery of those who fought in it. The discovery of these wrecks serves as a reminder of the high cost of victory and the importance of honoring the sacrifices made for freedom.
