A significant moment in maritime history has surfaced with the discovery of the USS Harder, an American submarine famed for its heroic actions during World War II.

According to Fox News, the USS Harder, a silent predator of the Pacific theater, has been located in the depths of the South China Sea near Luzon, in the Philippines, after vanishing on August 24, 1944.

On a fateful day in August 1944, the USS Harder, with 79 brave souls aboard, disappeared. Today, its wreck lies silently in over 3000 feet of water, revealing the scars of battle, primarily from depth charges near its conning tower. The vessel's resilience and story are symbols of the courage demonstrated during uncertain times.

The enduring legacy of the USS Harder

Beginning its service in December 1942, this vessel quickly distinguished itself as a formidable force. Throughout six calculated war patrols, the USS Harder demonstrated exceptional skill and aggression, particularly noted during its fifth patrol where it sank three Japanese destroyers and inflicted severe damage on two others in just four days.

The submarine's final mission was equally dramatic. During its sixth patrol, alongside the USS Haddo, the Harder destroyed three escort ships off the province of Bataan, Philippines. Tragically, its service concluded when it engaged the Japanese escort ship CD-22, which managed to evade the submarine's torpedoes and retaliated. The USS Harder succumbed to the fifth depth charge attack.

The dedication and valor of the USS Harder's crew were widely recognized. The submarine received the Presidential Unit Citation and six battle stars for its service. Moreover, Commander Sam Dealey, the captain who became a legend, was honored posthumously with the Medal of Honor among other decorations.

We are grateful that Lost 52 has allowed us to once again honor the valor of the crew of the ‘Hit ‘em HARDER’ submarine that sank the most Japanese warships -- in particularly audacious attacks -- under her legendary skipper, Cmdr. Sam Dealey.

Technological triumph in historical preservation

The breakthrough in finding the USS Harder came through meticulous archival research and the effective use of sophisticated technology. Tim Taylor, CEO of Tiburon Subsea and leader of the Lost 52 Project, employed autonomous robots to meticulously scan vast oceanic stretches, demonstrating how technology intersects with historical discovery to unfold stories lost in time.

"The process to find the USS Harder involved archival research and applying multiple autonomous robots to cover vast swaths of the search efficiently."

Remembering the sacrifices made by the crew, and by extension, all first responders who confront danger to protect others deepens our respect and appreciation for their bravery and service.

Conclusion

The finding of the USS Harder not only resolves a long-standing mystery but also provides a somber reminder of the realities of war. It is a touchstone for both historical reflection and collective memory, serving as a conduit to remember and value the extraordinary sacrifices made by those who have served.

The discovery of the USS Harder is a poignant conclusion to a story that has lingered unfinished since 1944. It reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice that service can demand and allows us to close a painful chapter for the families and descendants of those 79 souls who remained lost at sea until now.

The rediscovery of the USS Hardor serves as a solemn tribute to both the crew and their vessel's indomitable spirit. May this discovery serve as a lasting testament to their sacrifice and the enduring bravery of all who serve in harm's way.