Navy Submarines

A submarine is defined as a watercraft that is able to travel below the surface of the water. A submarine differs from a submersible watercraft, which has very limited underwater function, in that it can fully operate underwater. In fact, the word “submarine” means “under the sea.”

Submarine design advanced during the 19th Century, and the early “experimental” submarine designs were replaced with models used during World War I. The U.S. Navy used submarines to attack enemy vessels, including other submarines, and to protect aircraft carriers. Submarine use truly took off during World War II, when the U.S. utilized submarines for torpedo launches and secret missions. There were a number of notable World War II-era submarines, such as the USS Guardfish SS-217, which received a Presidential Unit Citation Award for her service, and the USS Argonaut SM 1, which mysteriously disappeared after an attack by an unknown enemy force.

Former crewmembers who served aboard U.S. Navy submarines were without question some of the bravest and most skilled military personnel, but despite their specialized training they were unable to adequately protect themselves from exposure to asbestos while serving their country. Asbestos was found in the insulation that lined piping aboard military vessels of all kinds, and a vast number of crewmembers who were exposed to asbestos found themselves suffering from asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma cancer, much later in life. Former military personnel who spent time aboard the following submarines should speak with their doctor regarding mesothelioma and the various mesothelioma treatment methods available.

Navy Submarine Listing

     

Last modified: December 09 2009.