In the profound depths of the South China Sea, a piece of World War II history has been uncovered after eight long decades.

The USS Harder, an emblematic U.S. Navy submarine famed for its combat prowess and feared by the Japanese fleet, has been discovered lying in the waters off the northern Philippine island of Luzon.

The Navy’s History and Heritage Command (NHHC) revealed that the USS Harder, known for its daring attacks and significant impact on the Pacific War, now rests some 3,000 feet underwater, largely intact save for damage from a Japanese depth charge behind its conning tower.

The Harder, whose motto “Hit ’em Harder” reflected its aggressive stance, was lost on August 24, 1944, taking down with it a valiant crew of 79 submariners.

The wreck’s discovery was confirmed by data from the Lost 52 Project, a commendable initiative led by Tim Taylor of Tiburon Subsea, which seeks to locate all 52 U.S. submarines that went missing during the Second World War.

This discovery adds to a growing list of Lost 52 successes, allowing us to honor the Harder’s brave crew’s valor once again.

NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, himself a retired U.S. Navy admiral, underscored the gravity of the find: “Harder was lost in the course of victory. We must not forget that victory has a price, as does freedom.”

The USS Harder had a storied history of engagements, having sunk numerous Japanese vessels before its final battle, including two escort ships just days before its demise.

On its fateful day, after missing the enemy with three torpedoes, Harder met its end at the hands of the Japanese escort ship CD-22’s depth charges. The confrontation proved lethal, as confirmed by Japanese records.

This heroic submarine’s service is recognized by the Presidential Unit Citation for its extraordinary heroism, and its skipper, Commander Sam Dealey, was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously.

The USS Harder, along with other U.S. submarines, played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater, challenging Japanese naval dominance and contributing significantly to the eventual U.S. victory.

The Philippine waters, where the USS Harder now eternally patrols in silence, were a hotbed of conflict as the U.S. fought to reclaim the archipelago from Japanese control.

Today, the discovery of the USS Harder serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by countless service members. As a designated war grave, the site is a sacred testament to the sailors who gave their lives in defense of the nation.

As we remember their bravery, we also reflect on the enduring spirit of freedom they fought so valiantly to defend.

With the discovery of the USS Harder, the annals of history are enriched, and the stories of the brave souls aboard are brought to the surface once more, never to be forgotten in the depths of the sea or the passage of time.

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