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World’s Deepest Shipwreck Discovered: U.S.S. Samuel B. Roberts Found in Philippine Sea

by Peter
written by Peter

World’s Deepest Shipwreck Discovered: U.S.S. Samuel B. Roberts Found in Philippines

Discovery of the Sammy B

In a groundbreaking discovery, a team of explorers led by Victor Vescovo and EYOS Expeditions has located the wreckage of the U.S.S. Samuel B. Roberts, also known as the “Sammy B,” in the Philippine Sea. The ship, a World War II destroyer, was found at a depth of 22,916 feet, making it the deepest shipwreck ever discovered.

Historical Significance

The Sammy B was named after Coxswain Samuel Booker Roberts, Jr., a hero who was killed in action during the Battle of Guadalcanal. The ship itself played a pivotal role in the Battle of Samar, where it bravely fought against the vastly superior Japanese Center Force, including the massive battleship Yamato.

Exploration and Discovery

The discovery of the Sammy B was a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Despite limited debris, the team was able to locate the ship using a combination of detective work and innovative technology. The wreckage was found in two pieces but was remarkably intact.

The Ship’s Condition

The extreme depth of the Sammy B’s resting place has preserved it in a unique way. With minimal biological growth, the ship appears much like it did when it sank in 1944, revealing the intense battle it endured against the Imperial Japanese Navy.

Exploring the Depths

The discovery of the Sammy B highlights the challenges and rewards of exploring the deep ocean. The extreme depths pose unique obstacles, but they also offer a glimpse into history that would otherwise be lost.

Preserving Underwater History

The discovery of the U.S.S. Johnston last year, which was previously the deepest shipwreck, demonstrated the importance of preserving underwater history. These wrecks serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by sailors from all nations during wartime.

Legacy and Recognition

The Sammy B’s discovery is a testament to the tenacity and courage of its crew. It is a valuable addition to our understanding of World War II naval history and a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom.

Technical Details

  • Depth: 22,916 feet
  • Location: Philippine Sea
  • Vessel: U.S.S. Samuel B. Roberts (Sammy B)
  • Type: John C. Butler-class destroyer
  • Sunk: Battle of Samar, 1944
  • Casualties: 89 killed, 120 rescued
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William Barker Cushing: The Civil War’s Most Daring Naval Officer and the Sinking of the CSS Albemarle

by Peter
written by Peter

William Barker Cushing: The Civil War’s Most Daring Naval Officer

Early Life and Career

William Barker Cushing was born in Fredonia, New York, in 1842. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy but was expelled in his senior year for disciplinary reasons. However, he was soon readmitted to the service and quickly proved his worth as a skilled and courageous officer.

The Sinking of the CSS Albemarle

Cushing’s most famous exploit came in October 1864, when he led a daring raid up the Roanoke River to sink the CSS Albemarle, a powerful ironclad that had been terrorizing Union forces. Despite heavy fire from the ironclad and from shore, Cushing’s launch steamed full speed ahead into a log boom and placed a spar torpedo under the Albemarle’s hull. The explosion sank the ironclad, giving the Union a major victory.

Hero’s Welcome

Cushing’s success made him a national hero. He was awarded the Thanks of Congress, promoted to full lieutenant commander, and honored in his hometown and other cities. His image graced the cover of Harper’s Weekly, and he became a symbol of the Union’s fighting spirit.

Later Career

After the war, Cushing continued to serve in the Navy, rising to the rank of rear admiral. He commanded the Asiatic Squadron during the Spanish-American War and played a key role in the capture of Manila Bay. He died in 1874 at the age of 32, but his legacy as one of the most daring and successful naval officers in American history lives on.

The Legacy of William Barker Cushing

William Barker Cushing’s daring raid on the CSS Albemarle was one of the most audacious and successful naval operations in American history. His courage and skill inspired his fellow sailors and helped to turn the tide of the Civil War in favor of the Union. Cushing’s legacy continues to inspire naval officers and historians alike, and he remains one of the most celebrated figures in American naval history.

Additional Details

  • Cushing’s raid on the Albemarle was considered a suicide mission, but he and his crew pulled it off with incredible skill and daring.
  • Cushing was just 22 years old when he led the raid, making him one of the youngest officers to command such a dangerous operation.
  • The CSS Albemarle was a formidable ironclad, but Cushing’s spar torpedo proved to be its undoing.
  • Cushing’s victory over the Albemarle helped to open up the Roanoke River to Union forces and contributed to the eventual Union victory in the Civil War.
  • Cushing’s raid is still studied today by naval officers as an example of how to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
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History

The Royal Navy’s Rum Ration: An Enduring Legacy of Discipline, Morale, and Vitamin C

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

The Royal Navy’s Rum Ration: A Historical Overview

The Daily Tot

For over two centuries, the daily rum ration was an integral part of life in the Royal Navy. Sailors relied on their “daily tot” of rum to help them endure the harsh conditions of life at sea. The rum ration was introduced in the 17th century as a way to prevent scurvy, a debilitating disease caused by a lack of Vitamin C. Rum, which was mixed with lime juice, provided sailors with a much-needed source of Vitamin C.

The rum ration also served as a form of currency on naval ships. Sailors could use their rum to barter for goods and services from other sailors. The rum ration was also used as a way to reward sailors for good behavior and to punish them for misconduct.

The Decline of the Rum Ration

By the mid-20th century, the rum ration had become less important in the Royal Navy. Sailors were now eating a more varied and nutritious diet, and scurvy was no longer a major threat. The Navy was also becoming increasingly professionalized, and the rum ration was seen as an anachronism.

In 1970, the Royal Navy finally abolished the daily rum ration. The decision was met with some resistance from traditionalists, but it was ultimately seen as a necessary step in modernizing the Navy.

The Legacy of the Rum Ration

The rum ration played a significant role in the history of the Royal Navy. It helped to prevent scurvy, boost morale, and maintain discipline among sailors. The rum ration is also a reminder of the harsh conditions that sailors faced in the past.

Today, the rum ration is still remembered in the Royal Navy. Sailors on certain ships still receive a symbolic tot of rum on special occasions. The rum ration is also a popular topic of naval folklore and legend.

Why the Royal Navy Bribed Sailors with Booze

The Royal Navy used rum to bribe sailors for a number of reasons. First, rum was a valuable commodity that could be used to attract and retain sailors. Second, rum helped to keep sailors happy and content, which reduced the risk of mutiny. Third, rum was believed to have medicinal properties, and it was thought to help prevent scurvy and other diseases.

The Final Day of the Rum Ration in the Royal Navy

On July 31, 1970, the Royal Navy abolished the daily rum ration. The decision was met with mixed reactions from sailors. Some sailors were disappointed to see the rum ration go, while others welcomed the change.

The Historical Importance of the Daily Rum Ration in the Royal Navy

The daily rum ration played a significant role in the history of the Royal Navy. It helped to prevent scurvy, boost morale, and maintain discipline among sailors. The rum ration is also a reminder of the harsh conditions that sailors faced in the past.

How Rum Helped Prevent Scurvy in Sailors

Rum does not naturally contain Vitamin C, but it was often mixed with lime juice, which is a good source of Vitamin C. Lime juice helped to prevent scurvy, a debilitating disease that was common among sailors in the past.

The Role of Rum in the Daily Life of Royal Navy Sailors

The rum ration was an important part of the daily life of Royal Navy sailors. It was used as a currency, a reward, and a punishment. The rum ration also helped to keep sailors happy and content, which reduced the risk of mutiny.

The Decline of the Rum Ration in the Royal Navy

By the mid-20th century, the rum ration had become less important in the Royal Navy. Sailors were now eating a more varied and nutritious diet, and scurvy was no longer a major threat. The Navy was also becoming increasingly professionalized, and the rum ration was seen as an anachronism.

The Legacy of the Royal Navy’s Rum Ration

The rum ration played a significant role in the history of the Royal Navy. It helped to prevent scurvy, boost morale, and maintain discipline among sailors. The rum ration is also a reminder of the harsh conditions that sailors faced in the past.

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