November 12, 2024
We will now be able to preserve this important memorial and hope that the families of the heroes who died there will know their loved ones rest in peace.
U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy in a joint video with the head of the Royal Australian Navy. The two countries announced the discovery of an American World War II warship that sunk to the bottom of the Indian Ocean more than 80 years ago.
Why It Matters: The USS Edsall sank with more than 200 service members on board when Japanese forces attacked it in 1942 (three months after Pearl Harbor). Prior to its sinking, the ship evacuated refugees and protected the shores of Australia during the early Pacific campaign. While Australian forces made the unintentional discovery of the 314-foot destroyer in 2023, the U.S. and Australia made a joint announcement of the discovery on Monday as the U.S. celebrated Veterans Day and Australia and Britain commemorated Remembrance Day.
Regarding the discovery and its legacy, the U.S. Navy said, “The wreck of this ship is a hallowed site, serving as a marker for the 185 U.S. Navy personnel and 31 U.S. Army Air Force pilots aboard at the time, almost all of whom were lost when Edsall succumbed to her battle damage. This find gives us the opportunity for today’s generation of Sailors and Navy civilians to be inspired by their valor and sacrifice.”
Read More: U.S.S. Edsall, sunk World War II ship known as ‘Dancing Mouse,’ found 80 years on (NBC News)
Photo Credit: The U.S.S. Edsall via Naval History and Heritage Command
by Emily Hooker, based in Texas
