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Research

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum LibraryUSS Bowfin Submarine Museum maintains an extensive collection of submarine-related photographs, manuals, and monographs, covering topics such as World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, naval history, underwater archaeology, submarine design, and general submarine history.  We also have a nearly complete set of World War II submarine war patrol reports, both in the original hard copy and in digital format.  Each of the nearly 700 submarines commissioned by the U.S. Navy has a file in our archives.

Our non-lending library and archives are open by appointment to qualified researchers, submariners, and their families.  The library is open by  from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Call (808) 423-1341, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to schedule your research visit.

 

Secrets of the Sub

Victory At Cost

Victory at a cost

During World War II, The United States Submarine Force, encompassing less than 2% of the U.S. Navy's fleet, inflicted destruction on Japanese maritime power. U.S. submarines were responsible for sinking over 30% of the Japanese Navy including eight aircraft carriers, one battleship and eleven cruisers.  More importantly, the Submarine Force sank 2,400 Japanese merchant ships totaling 4.9 million tons.

Chart of Enemy Ships

However, this success did not come without risk. Out of a total of 14,000 submariners who fought in peril under the sea took losses of over 3,500 officers and men.  Approximately one in four submariners never returned.

victory-bonefish-plaque-2_web

The USS Bonefish submarine plaque is one of fifty-two memorials at the Waterfront Memorial at Bowfin Park.