Author Archives: Brett Kulbis

Happy Flag Day

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The Origins of Flag Day

Flag Day traces its roots to June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress adopted the resolution that “the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation”. However, the formal observance of Flag Day as a national holiday took more than a century to develop.

The modern Flag Day celebration began with the dedicated efforts of Bernard J. Cigrand, a 19-year-old schoolteacher in Waubeka, Wisconsin. On June 14, 1885, Cigrand placed a small American flag in an inkwell on his desk and asked his students to write essays about what the flag meant to them, referring to that day as the flag’s birthday. This simple classroom exercise would spark Cigrand’s lifelong campaign to establish a national Flag Day observance.

Cigrand’s advocacy efforts gained momentum throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s. He moved to Chicago to attend dental school and in 1886 published an article titled “The Fourteenth of June” in the Chicago Argus newspaper, publicly proposing an annual observance of the flag’s birth. His persistence paid off when President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation on May 30, 1916, establishing June 14 as Flag Day.

Wilson’s proclamation was particularly significant, as it called for Flag Day to be observed “with special patriotic exercises, at which means shall be taken to give significant expression to our thoughtful love of America, our comprehension of the great mission of liberty and justice to which we have devoted ourselves as a people”. The proclamation emphasized Flag Day as “a day of renewal and reminder” for American ideals and principles.

The U.S. Submarine Force Flag Day Connection


USS Nautilus (SSN 571) Christening January 1954

The most significant connection between Flag Day and the submarine force occurred on June 14, 1952, when President Harry S. Truman laid the keel of the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. This ceremony at the Electric Boat shipyard in Groton, Connecticut, was deliberately scheduled for Flag Day, marking what Truman called “one of the most significant developments of our time”.

In his Flag Day address at the keel-laying ceremony, Truman reflected on the dual significance of the occasion. He noted that June 14, 1777, marked the 175th anniversary of the flag’s adoption, while also celebrating the dawn of the nuclear age in naval warfare. Truman emphasized that the ceremony represented “not because we are starting a new ship for war, but because we are making a great advance in use of atomic energy for peace”.

The symbolism was profound: on the same date that commemorated America’s national banner, the nation was launching into a new era of maritime power that would fundamentally alter the strategic balance of the Cold War. Truman declared, “Today, we stand on the threshold of a new age of power”.

The Nautilus went on to make history, becoming the first vessel to reach the geographic North Pole on August 3, 1958, and establishing numerous speed and distance records during its 25-year career. The submarine’s achievements validated the revolutionary technology that was born on Flag Day 1952.

In Summary

Submarine operations, by their very nature, often occur far from public view, making the symbolic connection to the flag even more important. The submarine force’s motto of operating “Unseen and On Scene” emphasizes how submarines serve as silent guardians of American interests while carrying the flag into the world’s most remote and dangerous waters.

The intertwined history of Flag Day and the U.S. Submarine Force represents more than mere coincidence, it reflects the deep connection between American naval tradition and national identity. From the Revolutionary War submarine Turtle to the nuclear-powered vessels of today, submarines have served as extensions of American sovereignty and power projection capabilities.

The Flag Day keel-laying of the USS Nautilus in 1952 created a lasting bond between the national holiday and the submarine force, symbolizing how American technological innovation and naval tradition combine to protect and advance national interests. This connection continues to resonate in contemporary submarine force traditions, ceremonies, and observances that honor both the flag and those who have served beneath it in the silent service.

As the submarine force continues to evolve and modernize, the Flag Day connection serves as a reminder of the enduring values and principles that guide American naval service. The flag that was adopted on June 14, 1777, continues to fly over submarines that patrol the world’s oceans, carrying forward the legacy of those who came before and maintaining the proud traditions of the silent service.

President Reagan’s Remarks at a Flag Day Ceremony in Baltimore, Maryland — 6/14/85 (Video) 

The History of Flag Day

How the Flag Came to be Called Old Glory

National Constitution Center “The History of the U.S. Flag” (Video)

Military Retirement (Video)

“Flag- Folding Ceremony” – Meaning of each Fold (Video)

Robin Williams as the America Flag (Video)

Tradewinds June 2026

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Volume 83

To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution.

1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base

Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our June meeting at Clean Sweep Bar, Lockwood Hall. The following members attended – Base Commander Paul Jurcsak, Vice Commander Tim Sparks, Secretary Brett Kulbis, Treasurer Pat Suenaga, COB Gary Johnson, and members Dave Atkins, Jim Bazemore, David Bilek, Dan Del Monte, Nelson Greer, Ben McGowan, Ace Parker, Crichton Roberts, and Joe Winzenried.

Welcomed Guests – Mi-ye Bilek, Nancy Kreis, Gregg Parker, and Judy McGowan.

Binnacle List – Please keep the all our members and their families in your good thoughts and prayers.

Hauʻoli Lā Hānau! Bowfin Birthdays for the month of June.

Patrol Reports

Memorial Day: Bowfin Submarine Veterans Honor Fallen Submariners

D-Day 82nd Anniversary

Hurricane Season

Bowfin Holland Club Members

This Month in Base History

1997 – United States Submarine Veterans Inc. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Chartered.

1963 – Pacific Region Caucus (Milwaukie, OR), Hawai’i State Commander Len Crane was voted in unanimously as Pacific Region Director.

Base Officers & Staff

Commander Paul T. Jurcsak
Vice Commander Tim Sparks
Secretary Brett Kulbis
Treasurer Pat Suenaga
Chief of the Boat Gary G. Johnson
Storekeeper George F. Barlett

2. U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc.

News and Bulletins
American Submariner

USSVI Officers & Staff

USSVI National Commander Jon D. Jaques
USSVI Western Region Director Peter T. Juhos
USSVI Western District 6 Commander Dave Vanderveen
USSVI Office Manager Charles F. Murray

3. Information of Interest

VA News Releases
Defense News – Early Bird

4. Still On Patrol

Tolling of the bells for boats lost in the month of June.

5. Important Links

Bowfin Base Pearl Harbor
Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Photo Album
USSVI Bowfin Base Facebook (Like Us, Follow Us and Share with your shipmates)
Past Bowfin Base Eblasts
Friends of the Submarine Memorial Chapel Facebook (Like Us, Follow Us and Share with your shipmates)
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
American Submariner Magazine
Pearl Harbor Dolphin Store (Your one stop shop for submarine merchandise.)

6. Submarine Humor

7. Submariners Prayer

Our mailing address is:
USSVI Bowfin Base Pearl Harbor
94-219 Wehena Place
Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

D-Day 82nd Anniversary – All Gave Some, Some Gave All, Lest We Forget!

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June 6, 2026

On June 6th, 1944 Allied soldiers, in one of the most pivotal battles of World War II, invaded the French coastline in order to propel German soldiers out of Western Europe and lead the way for victory against the tyrants of that era. Overlord was the largest air, land, and sea operation undertaken before or since June 6, 1944. The landing included over 5,000 ships, 11,000 airplanes, and over 150,000 service men.

 After years of meticulous planning and seemingly endless training, for the Allied Forces, it all came down to this: The boat ramp goes down, then jump, swim, run, and crawl to the cliffs. Many of the first young men (most not yet 20 years old) entered the surf carrying eighty pounds of equipment. They faced over 200 yards of beach before reaching the first natural feature offering any protection. Blanketed by small-arms fire and bracketed by artillery, they found themselves in hell.

 When it was over, the Allied Forces had suffered nearly 10,000 casualties; more than 4,000 were dead. Yet somehow, due to planning and preparation, and due to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of the Allied Forces, Fortress Europe had been breached.

National D-Day Memorial

The National D-Day Memorial is a war memorial located in Bedford, Virginia. It serves as the national memorial for American D-Day veterans. However, its scope is international in that it states, “In Tribute to the valor, fidelity and sacrifice of Allied Forces on D-Day, June 6, 1944” and commends all Allied Armed Forces during the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France on June 6, 1944 during World War II.

National D-Day Memorial Webpage
National D-Day Memorial Video

The “Bedford Boys”

The memorial, bordering the Blue Ridge Mountains in southwestern Virginia, is an area of over 50 acres that overlooks the town of Bedford.

Thirty-four Virginia National Guard soldiers from the town of Bedford were part of D-Day. Nineteen of them were killed during the first day of the invasion, and four more died during the rest of the Normandy campaign. The town and the “Bedford Boys” had proportionately suffered the greatest losses of the campaign, thus inspiring the United States Congress to establish the D-Day memorial in Bedford.

The Bedford Boys included three sets of brothers: twins Roy and Ray Stevens, with Ray killed during the landing while Roy survived, Clyde and Jack Powers, with Jack killed and Clyde wounded but surviving, and Bedford and Raymond Hoback, both killed. The losses by the soldiers from Bedford were chronicled in the best-selling book “The Bedford Boys” by Alex Kershaw, and helped inspire the movie Saving Private Ryan.

The X-Craft and D-Day

The landing at Normandy has come to mark the “beginning of the end” of the war in Europe. The Higgins landing craft has become synonymous with the invasion as the boat that won the war. However, one type of vessel that is often forgotten from the narrative is the British midget submarines that played a key role in the landing efforts.

Preparations for D-day were extensive. Operation Neptune, the codename for cross-channel portion of the invasion, under Neptune was Operation Gambit, the use of two X -class British submarines that would mark the ends of the British and Canadian invasion beaches.

The submarine could carry a four-man crew and remain at sea for days. She could dive up to 300 feet. Due to her small size, the X-craft had only one access hatch and a small periscope that was mostly unreliable. Navigation was done through a Browns A Gyro Compass and Auto Helmsman. The X-craft could either be towed by a conventional submarine or launched from the deck of a submarine to reach its intended target. Two 3,570-lb mines were attached to its sides. A hand crank could release them when they were positioned below the hull of an enemy ship. The small crew consisted of one commanding officer, a first lieutenant, an engineer, and a diver.

Two X-class submarines would return to the beaches of Normandy leading up to the invasion to help aid in what would become the eventual downfall of the German troops. HMS X-23 and HMS X-20 would be the first vessels off the shores of Normandy leading up to the attack. Arriving on June 4, the X-crafts fixed their positions and waited for nightfall to surface to begin their mission. It wasn’t until they surfaced that they received the message that the operation had been postponed due to bad weather.

On 6 June at 0445 the submarines surfaced in rough seas. They set up the 18 feet high navigation beacons that each were carrying and switched them on. These shone a green light indicating their position away from the coast, visible up to 5 miles away although undetectable to anyone on land. They used the radio beacon and echo sounder to tap out a message for the minelayers approaching Sword and Juno beaches. The incoming fleet appeared on time and roared past them.

Operation Gambit was a success, the British and Canadian forces were able to land on their respective shores without falling off course or hitting any rocks, thanks to the beacons from the X-crafts.

While the X-20 and X-23, served only a minor role in the D-Day invasion, it shows the vital role a submarine can play in a nation’s arsenal.

Tolling of the Boats Lost in June

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Smallwood Hall

On 15 April 1987, Submarine Base Pearl Harbor reopened a newly renovated 17-story Bachelor Enlisted Quarters capable of housing 516 personnel. This building was dedicated on 26 February 1988 in the memory of MM3 (SS) James E. Smallwood for the sacrifice of his life while performing his duties in the service of his country.

MM3(SS) James Smallwood was the duty auxiliaryman on USS Sargo in 1960 and was taking aboard oxygen from a pierside truck/trailer.

The connection was in the stern room with the manifold behind the watertight door in the forward port corner of the room. Although the exact circumstances will not be known, a high pressure high flow leak occurred.

Smallwood, realizing the danger to himself and the ship, woke the only other man in the room and told him to get out. (The stern room had some berthing). He then attempted to isolate the leak. Just as the man he awakened cleared the hatch, the room erupted in an oxygen rich explosion/fire fed by any flammable material and the high pressure oxygen. Smallwood died instantly in the room. The crew attempted to fight the fire and eventually, unable to enter the room and with the temperature of the aft bulkhead of the engine room high enough to blister and smoke the paint in the engine room even with hoses playing water on it, the decision was made to breast out from the wharf (S1B) and submerge the stern. This was done, the fire went out.

MM3 (SS) James E. Smallwood was posthumously awarded the Navy-Marine Corps Medal for heroic conduct.

The CITATION reads:

“For heroic conduct on June 14, 1960 while serving on board U.S.S. SARGO (SSN-583) moored at the Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. While supervising the operation of charging high pressure oxygen into the SARGO’s storage tanks, SMALLWOOD firmly and meticulously carried out the ship’s safety precautions requiring isolation of the charging compartment from the remainder of the vessel. Aware of the potential danger involved, he denied entry of several of his shipmates to the Stern Room and kept the watertight door and bulkhead flappers shut. SMALLWOOD lost his life in a raging fire which broke out during the oxygen charge. Through his steadfast adherence to safety precautions, he undoubtedly prevented further loss of life and a probable major disaster. His courage and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

Memorial Day: Bowfin Submarine Veterans Honor Fallen Submariners

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Bowfin News / 26 May 2026

The 2026 Memorial Day commemoration at the Submarine Memorial hosted by Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Submarine Veterans, brought together veterans, active-duty Sailors, families, and community partners to honor America’s fallen submariners in a solemn ceremony. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base submarine veterans continue these ceremonies annually with little deviation from the original observance first held at the memorial in 1960, preserving the traditions that have long defined submarine remembrance in Hawai’i.

Setting and Significance

The Submarine Memorial, a site originally dedicated in 1960 to honor submarines and submariners lost during the Second World War. Built to display bronze plaques listing the names of lost World War II submarines and their crews, the ten submarines lost before the war, and the four submarines lost after the war.

Opening of the Ceremony

The 2026 commemoration began with a formal welcome from Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Commander Paul T. Jurcsak, USN (Retired), who greeted guests and set a tone of remembrance and gratitude. His remarks recognized the historic legacy of the “Silent Service” and the presence of widows, veterans, active duty submariners, and community leaders.

Radford High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and scouts from Troops 97 and 797 paraded the 50 state flags, visually representing the breadth of the nation whose fallen were being honored. Members of National Sojourners, led by Hawai’i Regional Representative Jeremy Holloway, then posted the colors, anchoring the ceremony in the traditions of military honor and patriotic respect.

Music, Prayer, and Remembrance

Following the posting of the colors, the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band Brass Quintet, featuring Musician First Class Jonathan Starr, performed the National Anthem as attendees stood in silence. The music provided a dignified tribute and a unifying moment for all present.

Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Chaplain Commander Jonathon Uyboco, CHC, USN, delivered the invocation, offering prayers for the fallen, their families, and those still serving beneath the sea. His words emphasized Memorial Day as both a civic duty and a spiritual obligation to remember the cost of freedom.

Tolling the Bell for Lost Boats

A central feature of the annual observance is the roll call, the solemn tolling of the bell for each U.S. submarine lost. Bell tolling was conducted by Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Chief of the Boat Gary G. Johnson, CMDCM(SS), USN (Retired), the ceremony followed longstanding submarine tradition: each boat’s name was read and marked by a bell strike, symbolizing both loss and enduring remembrance, and a kukui nut lei was hung from the boat’s plaque.

Special Lei and Wreath Presentations

In keeping with Hawaii’s culture and Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base traditions, the ceremony featured special lei presentations to honor specific submarines and units. A lei was presented for USS Growler (SS‑215), the “Hawai’i State Submarine” lost in World War II, and for Growler’s “Kangaroo Express” service, highlighted by Commander Jason Shegog of the Royal Australian Navy.

Another lei honored USS Seawolf (SS‑197), recognizing her crew and the close ties between the U.S. submarine force and the 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment, represented by VFW Post 1572 and Mrs. Anita Loando‑Acohido.

Wreath presentations followed from Bowfin Base U.S. Submarine Veterans, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Association, the Naval Submarine League Aloha Chapter, and the Pearl Harbor Submarine Officers’ Spouses Association. Each wreath laid at the memorial symbolized a collective commitment from veterans, families, and community partners—to remember and keep faith with the fallen.

Keynote message from RADM Cavanaugh

The distinguished speaker for the 2026 commemoration was Rear Admiral Christopher Cavanaugh, Commander, Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet. A career submariner and 1993 Naval Academy graduate, Cavanaugh has commanded the attack submarine USS Albuquerque (SSN 706), leading two Western Pacific deployments that earned a Navy Unit Commendation and the Battle Efficiency “E.”

He has also commanded Submarine Squadron 11 and held key assignments in strategy, personnel, nuclear propulsion, and joint budgeting, as well as command of Submarine Group 7, Task Force 54, and Task Force 74 in Yokosuka, Japan. Drawing on that experience, his remarks emphasized the continuity between World War II submariners and today’s undersea warriors, and the enduring responsibility to uphold the ideals for which the fallen served.

Closing Rites and Enduring Tradition

As in previous years, the ceremony concluded with a benediction from Chaplain CDR Uyboco, the U.S. Pacific Fleet Ceremonial Band’s performance of “The Navy Hymn,” and a three‑gun volley rendered by the Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam Navy Honor Guard Detachment under ITC Minami Jones, USN. “Taps,” sounded by MU2 Taylor Yarbrough of the Pacific Fleet Band, brought the gathering to a silent close as attendees reflected on the rows of plaques and the stories behind each name.

In hosting the 2026 Memorial Day commemoration, Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base once again demonstrated its commitment to preserving and continuing these rituals of remembrance. The base has carried out Memorial Day observances at the Submarine Memorial annually with little deviation from the original 1960 ceremony, ensuring that each new generation encounters the same solemn traditions that first honored the submarine force’s World War II heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the county they loved.

FAMILYGRAM – REMINDER Memorial Day Base Access

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Heads up for Memorial Day: Nimitz Gate will be closed on tomorrow.

So, if you’re planning to come out for our annual Memorial Day commemoration which starts at 11am, please use Makalapa Gate for base access. Nimitz Gate will reopen with normal hours after the holiday.

Remember to bring your gift item for the drawing.

Mahalo,

Brett Kulbis
Secretary
bkulbis.bowfin@use.startmail.com

58th Anniversary USS Scorpion (SSN 589)

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Bowfin News | May 22, 2026

The USS Scorpion (SSN-589) was a Skipjack-class nuclear-powered submarine that sank in 1968. The circumstances surrounding its loss remain mysterious and have been the subject of various theories and investigations. The submarine was declared missing on May 27, 1968, after failing to return to its homeport in Norfolk, Virginia. The U.S. Navy had lost contact with the Scorpion on May 21, 1968, and by the night of May 22, 1968, there was significant concern about its status. The Navy waited until May 27 to officially declare the submarine missing, but by that time, the Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) had already detected the breakup of the Scorpion’s hull as it sank beyond its crush depth.

The cause of the Scorpion’s loss has been the subject of much speculation, with theories ranging from a torpedo accident to a Soviet attack. The Navy’s official inquiry, completed in 1969, was unable to determine the specific cause of the loss. However, it listed accidents involving the Mark 37 torpedo as three of the most probable causes, including a hot-running torpedo, an accidentally or deliberately launched weapon, or the inadvertent activation of a torpedo by stray voltage.

The incident occurred during a period of heightened tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, and some theories suggest that the loss of the Scorpion could have been related to this geopolitical context. The USS Scorpion was part of the U.S. Navy’s fleet during the Cold War, and its loss was a significant event during this era.

The sinking of the USS Scorpion remains one of the most significant submarine losses in U.S. Navy history, with the loss of 99 crew members and two nuclear weapons. The incident has been a subject of ongoing interest and speculation, reflecting the challenges of operating submarines in the deep ocean and the risks associated with nuclear technology.

View of the sunken submarine’s bow section, on the Atlantic Ocean floor 10,000 feet deep, some 400 miles southwest of the Azores. Probably taken when Scorpion was located by USNS Mizar (T-AGOR-11) in October 1968. This image shows the top of the bow section, from the vicinity of the sail (which has been torn off)at left to the tip of the bowat top center. The torpedo room hatch is visible about half-way along the length of this hull section, with a lifeline track running aft from it.
Wreck of USS Scorpion (SSN-589) Atlantic Ocean (August 1986)….Depth 10,000 feet, 400 miles southwest of the Azores; stern view of the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Scorpion (SSN-589) showing the upper portion of the rudder (with draft markings) and the port stern plane. Note that the … after portion of the engine room section (has been) telescoped into the machinery room. The ribs of the stern planes can be seen due to the deformation of the metal covering them.
Wreck of USS Scorpion (SSN-589) Atlantic Ocean (August 1986)….Depth 10,000 feet, 400 miles southwest of the Azores; A view of the detached sail of the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Scorpion (SSN-589) laying on the ocean floor. The starboard fairwater plane is visible protruding from the sail. Masts are visible extending from the top of the sail (located at the lower portion of the photograph). A large segment of the after section of the sail, including the deck access hatch, is missing. Various articles from the operations compartment are scattered in this vicinity.

Tradewinds May 2026

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Volume 82

To perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives while voluntarily serving in submarine warfare in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country. That their dedication, deeds and supreme sacrifice be a constant source of motivation toward greater accomplishments. To further promote and keep alive the spirit and unity that existed among submarine crewmen during World War II. To promote sociability general welfare and good fellowship among our members. To pledge loyalty and patriotism to the United States of America and it’s constitution.

🌺❤️Happy Mothers Day!❤️🌺

1. Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base

Bowfin Meeting – We conducted our May meeting at Clean Sweep Bar, Lockwood Hall. The following members attended – Dave Atkins, Jim Bazemore, David Bilek, Rodney Boucher, Karl Dye, Nelson Greer, Gary Grisham, Gary Johnson, John Johnson, Paul Jurcsak, Brett Kulbis, Ace Parker, Crichton Roberts, Tom Schmidt, Thom Sousa, Tim Sparks, Pat Suenaga, Wade Thode, and Joe Winzenried.

Welcomed Guests – Miye Bilek, Nancy Kreis, Ann Gosling, Gregg Parker, Wes and Will Thode.

Binnacle List – Please keep the all our members and their families in your good thoughts and prayers.

Hauʻoli Lā Hānau! Bowfin Birthdays for the month of May.

Patrol Reports

USS Bowfin (SS-287): 83 Years Since the Commission of the “Pearl Harbor Avenger”

Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum Monthly E-Newsletter – April 2026

“Forged to Fight”: The 126th Pearl Harbor Enlisted Submarine Birthday Ball

Bowfin Holland Club Members

Base Officers & Staff

Commander Paul T. Jurcsak
Vice Commander Tim Sparks
Secretary Brett Kulbis
Treasurer Pat Suenaga
Chief of the Boat Gary G. Johnson
Storekeeper George F. Barlett

This Month in Base History

1988 – Actor Tony Curtis affiliated with USSVI of WWII Hawai’i Chapter. Tony served in WWII onboard USS Proteus (AS-19).

1985 – USS Growler officially becomes the Hawai’i State Boat.

1980 – USSVI of WWII Hawai’i Chapter and USSVI of WWII Relief Crew ONE begin having combined monthly meetings.

1964 – United States Submarine Veterans of WWII constituted as a legal non-profit with a license to operate and conduct business in all 50 States.

1959 – United States Submarine Veterans of WWII Hawai’i State Chapter established.

2. U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc.

News and Bulletins
American Submariner

USSVI Officers & Staff

USSVI National Commander Jon D. Jaques
USSVI Western Region Director Peter T. Juhos
USSVI Western District 6 Commander Dave Vanderveen
USSVI Office Manager Charles F. Murray

3. Information of Interest

VA News Releases
Defense News – Early Bird

4. Still On Patrol

Tolling of the bells for boats lost in the month of May.

5. Important Links

Bowfin Base Pearl Harbor
Bowfin Pearl Harbor Base Photo Album
USSVI Bowfin Base Facebook (Like Us, Follow Us and Share with your shipmates)
Friends of the Submarine Memorial Chapel Facebook (Like Us, Follow Us and Share with your shipmates)
USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park
American Submariner Magazine
Pearl Harbor Dolphin Store (Your one stop shop for submarine merchandise.)

6. Submarine Humor

7. Submariners Prayer

Our mailing address is:
USSVI Bowfin Base Pearl Harbor
94-219 Wehena Place
Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

USS Bowfin (SS-287): 83 Years Since the Commission of the “Pearl Harbor Avenger”

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On May 1, 1943, the USS Bowfin slipped into service as one of the United States Navy’s most formidable weapons of the Pacific War. Commissioned at Portsmouth Navy Yard exactly 83 years ago today, this Balao-class fleet submarine would go on to become a legend among the silent service—ranking 17th in tonnage sunk and 15th in the number of enemy vessels destroyed among all 188 World War II submarines that saw combat.

The Birth of a Predator

The journey to commissioning began urgently. Just days after the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Portsmouth Navy Yard received orders to construct a new generation of submarines. The USS Bowfin’s keel was laid on July 23, 1942, and she was launched exactly six months later on December 7, 1942—a poignant date marking both the attack on Pearl Harbor and the submarine’s entry into the world. That symbolic launch date would foreshadow her legendary status: USS Bowfin would earn the nickname “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” a tribute to her role in exacting vengeance on Japanese forces throughout the Pacific War. In just under five months, she was combat-ready and commissioned, ready to answer the call for retribution that resonated throughout the Navy.

Engineering Excellence

The Balao-class represented a significant leap forward in submarine technology. USS Bowfin displaced 2,415 tons when submerged and stretched nearly 312 feet in length. Her most critical upgrade over the preceding Gato-class was revolutionary: thicker, higher-yield strength steel in the pressure hull skin and frame, which increased test depth to 400 feet—giving her greater operational flexibility and survivability in deep waters.

Her combat capabilities were impressive for the era. Ten torpedo tubes provided devastating firepower, with rack space for 14 reloads. On the surface, she could reach 20.25 knots; submerged, she managed 8.75 knots—fast enough to attack convoys and escape pursuing destroyers. These specifications made her among the most effective submarines of World War II.

Nine Patrols, a Legacy Forged

Between 1943 and 1945, USS Bowfin undertook nine war patrols across the Pacific. Her commanding officers’ records reflect extraordinary success: 34 large vessels sunk, 10 more under 500 tons, and damage inflicted on 33,934 tons of enemy shipping across five large vessels and two smaller craft. In total, USS Bowfin is credited with sinking or damaging 213,580 tons of enemy shipping—a remarkable combat record.

A Living Monument

Today, USS Bowfin rests at the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum Park in Pearl Harbor, just miles from where the Pacific War began. Visitors can descend into her narrow passages, stand in her control room, and glimpse the cramped quarters where her brave crew operated. She stands as a tangible reminder of the sacrifice and ingenuity of the submariners who fought the hidden war beneath the waves.

The commissioning of USS Bowfin on May 1, 1943, marked the beginning of a submarine that would prove instrumental in the Pacific victory. Among the 265 Balao-class submarines ordered and 119 completed during the war, she remains one of the most celebrated—a testament to superior engineering, fearless leadership, and the indomitable spirit of the American submarine force.

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