The U.S.S. Edsall, a once-proud American destroyer, has been located after resting at the bottom of the Indian Ocean for over 80 years. This discovery not only rekindles memories of its bravery during the heat of World War II but also offers closure to families who lost loved ones on March 1, 1942, when the ship sank following brutal attacks by Japanese forces.
The wreck was found about 320 kilometers off the coast of Christmas Island, thanks to the expertise of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and advanced robotic technologies typically reserved for hydrographic surveys. They deployed these systems from the submarine rescue vessel, ADV Stoker. The announcement of the find was made Monday, and it marks another chapter in the long history of naval warfare during the Pacific theater.
The U.S.S. Edsall, commissioned on November 26, 1920, found itself positioned primarily around the Far East until the events of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, thrust it back onto the battlefield. During its last mission, the ship was tasked with transporting U.S. Army Air Forces pilots to aid the defense of Java. It was during this perilous route when Edsall was ambushed by Japanese forces nearly three months after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
This tragic engagement involved more than 1,000 rounds fired at the destroyer, with approximately 26 carrier-borne bombs hitting the ship and leading to its eventual demise. Onboard were 185 sailors from the Navy and 31 Army pilots, all of whom perished as the vessel succumbed to damage and sank. U.S. Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Lisa Franchetti described the wreck as hallowed ground, emphasizing its significance as the final resting place of these servicemen.
The recent confirmed identification of the wreck serves numerous purposes. For the RAN and the U.S. Navy, it strengthens the longstanding alliance rooted since World War II. The Chief of Naval Operations alluded to how this discovery underlines the cooperative efforts between the two nations, made even more potent through current partnerships like AUKUS - the trilateral security pact involving Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Caroline Kennedy, the U.S. Ambassador to Australia, also made remarks reflecting on the significance of this find. She stated, "This is part of our continuing efforts to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice... We will tell their stories, learn from their bravery, and be inspired by their sacrifice." It is not only about rediscovering history but also about preserving the memories of those who served valiantly.
Beyond remembrance, technical aspects played a role in this underwater exploration. Using advanced robotic and autonomous systems, the expedition team was able to navigate through the vast and challenging terrains of the Indian Ocean. Though specific operational details of the vehicle and its mission remained confidential, both the RAN and U.S. officials underscored the technological advancements contributing to successful underwater explorations.
On March 1, 1942, the Edsall struggled heroically against overwhelming forces. A day earlier, it had met with the U.S.S. Pecos to offload survivors from another engagement. Soon after, it would become engaged with Japanese military vessels like the Chikuma, hail of shells raining down on it, underscoring the peril faced by the crew. Despite the fierce defense it mounted, the ship's ultimate fate was sealed when bombs struck home.
After the battles, only a handful of survivors were rescued by the Japanese, who would interrogate them before their eventual return. Now, with the wreckage identified, there are plans to document and preserve it, creating what could serve as both a memorial and educational site. U.S. Navy officials are working closely with Australian counterparts to explore the conservation possibilities for the wreck.
The discovery also highlights the potential for future oceanographic endeavors. Naval officials believe these innovative technologies could be deployed for various research and military applications moving forward, pushing the boundaries of marine exploration.
Lastly, the announcement of this wreck coincided not just with the commemoration of battles long past but with Remembrance Day observed in Australia and Veterans Day recognized across the United States. This connection imbues the finding with even greater significance, as people on both sides of the Pacific reflect on the sacrifices made during conflicts.
