The USS Harder, a U.S. Navy submarine that disappeared on August 24, 1944, with 79 sailors on board, has been located in the South China Sea after nearly 80 years. The wreck was found off Luzon island in the Philippines with the help of data provided by Tim Taylor, CEO of Tiburon Subsea and the Lost 52 Project. The submarine, which earned the nickname ‘Hit ‘em HARDER’, was known for sinking the most Japanese warships during World War II under the command of Cmdr. Sam Dealey. The wreckage of the USS Harder is resting at a depth of more than 3,000 feet and is relatively intact except for damage aft of the conning tower caused by depth charges.
The USS Harder was commissioned in December 1942 and completed six war patrols before its disappearance. Described as its “most successful” patrol, the submarine targeted Japanese destroyers by sinking three of them and heavily damaging or destroying two others in just four days. During its final patrol, it attacked and destroyed three escort ships off the Philippines province of Bataan, with the assistance of another submarine, the USS Haddo. Japanese records revealed that the USS Harder fired torpedoes at an escort ship, the CD-22, on August 24, 1944. The ship evaded the torpedoes and launched a series of depth charge attacks, ultimately sinking the Harder and its crew.
Following its service in World War II, the USS Harder was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation and six battle stars. Cmdr. Dealey, the submarine’s captain, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his exceptional leadership during the Harder’s fifth patrol. Additionally, Dealey received a Navy Cross for the first patrol, a Gold Star in lieu of the second Navy Cross for the second patrol, a Distinguished Service Cross, and several other commendations for his bravery and contributions to the war effort. The discovery of the USS Harder has allowed the Naval History and Heritage Command to honor the valor of the submarine’s crew who played a significant role in the Pacific theater during World War II.
The finding of the USS Harder sheds light on the bravery and sacrifices made by American servicemen during World War II. The submarine’s successful patrols and engagements with Japanese forces exemplify the dedication and commitment of U.S. Navy personnel in the defense of liberty and democracy. The discovery of the wreck reaffirms the importance of remembering and honoring the contributions of war heroes like the crew of the USS Harder, who played a crucial role in the Allied victory in the Pacific. The wreckage of the submarine not only serves as a reminder of the past but also provides closure to the families of the sailors who served on the USS Harder and never returned home.
The USS Harder has been recognized for its contributions to the war effort, receiving numerous awards and commendations for its successful patrols and engagements with Japanese warships. The discovery of the wreck off the coast of Luzon island in the Philippines allows for a deeper understanding of the submarine’s history and the bravery of its crew. The USS Harder’s final moments, as revealed by Japanese records, highlight the dangers faced by submariners during World War II and the ultimate sacrifice made by those who served aboard the vessel. The story of the USS Harder serves as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of American servicemen in the face of adversity and danger.
