In a world that often glorifies peace over strength, the story of the USS Archerfish (SS-311) serves as an exhilarating reality check. Who was USS Archerfish? She was an extraordinary Balao-class submarine of the United States Navy, birthed in the heated shipyards of Portsmouth Navy Yard in Kittery, Maine. Commissioned on September 4, 1943, this stealthy predator prowled the treacherous waters of the Pacific during World War II. Most acclaimed for sinking the Japanese supercarrier Shinano, Archerfish didn't just write herself into the history books; she took a giant Sharpie and doodled a masterpiece.
First engaging her prey on November 28, 1944, off the coast of Japan, Archerfish proved her mettle and muscular savvy under the command of Commander Joseph F. Enright. This wasn’t just another Wednesday at sea—it was a display of American might and strategic brilliance. The Shinano, a ship brimming with 70,000 tons of unbridled naval arrogance, sank into the abyss under Archerfish's relentless assault, becoming the largest warship ever sunk by a submarine.
Let’s break down why this mission was more than just another navy operation—it was a demonstration of American valor. First, it totally corrected the liberal fatalism that America's greatness is on the decline. This martial dance unfolded in a mere four-hour battle, showcasing our American grit and determination. Some detractors may find fault and say this feat wasn't significant; however, they fail to grasp the overwhelming odds faced by Archerfish, proving once again that the underdog can have its day when backed by national pride and determination.
Secondly, this victorious splash wasn’t just luck. Guided by brilliant intelligence from Ultra decrypts, Archerfish knew she was swimming into the lion's den. The Shinano was no rickety tugboat; she was Japan’s newest show-off, which may have appeared invincible on the surface. If you think about it, Archerfish taking down Shinano was like a nimble David saying 'Hold my torpedo' to Goliath.
Some might say that the sinking of one ship during a sprawling conflict barely rates a footnote, but they'd be missing the point. Archerfish’s victory sent ripples across the oceans and forced Japan to reassess its naval strategy. The importance of this victory lies not merely in tonnage but in strategy and morale. With Japan cornered and their high-and-mighty aircraft carrier resting peacefully on the sea floor, it was clear their naval cachet was beginning to unravel.
Now, you might hear often how our national history is filled with chaotic blunders, but the success of Archerfish tells a different story—one of precision and effectiveness. It's important to remind the armchair pessimists that American ingenuity and craftsmanship have built formidable foes to tyranny-packed flotillas. The Archerfish’s adventurism wasn’t a random fluke; it was a carefully calculated gambit, supported by quintessentially American resolve.
The aftermath of this military victory is not to be underestimated either. The USS Archerfish went on to earn seven battle stars during her service in World War II and the Asiatic-Pacific campaigns. Her reputation was cemented not just by her military prowess but by what she represented: a beacon of strength and sovereignty, all played out with fierce determination and unyielding courage.
Let's not overlook that this heroic escapade also highlighted the incredible importance of submarine warfare during World War II. Submarines may have remained hidden, yet they shattered the enemy's moral and material defenses time and again, proving their indispensable role in wartime strategies.
Yes, detractors may argue that these are stories of old and have little relevance today. I beg to differ. In our modern world plagued by endless rounds of debates about defense budgets and military readiness, let us draw strength from those rust-streaked pages of history. Perhaps modern-day hawks and armchair generals need a hard reminder that sovereignty sometimes demands strength, not just rhetoric.
Archerfish's story is a testament to the American fighting spirit and technological prowess that even today propels us to the forefront. Let’s skip the naval-gazing and give credit where credit is due. This is our legacy: a nation that talks softly but thrives on holding a big submersible stick. With the rich legacy of USS Archerfish in our national backdrop, it’s worth reminding ourselves that defensive prowess and proactive strength are what keep us sailing smoothly in far rougher waters.