Photo Credit: Tim Taylor/Lost 52 Project
In the depths of the South China Sea, a piece of World War II history was recently uncovered. The USS Harder, a legendary U.S. Navy submarine, was located 3,000 feet underwater off the Philippines’ northern island of Luzon. This discovery by the Lost 52 Project, led by Tim Taylor, marks the end of an 80-year mystery surrounding the fate of the “Hit 'em HARDER” submarine.
The USS Harder, commanded by the intrepid Cmdr. Samuel D. Dealey, earned its fearsome nickname through a series of daring engagements that left an indelible mark on naval warfare. During its fifth patrol, the Harder sank three Japanese destroyers and heavily damaged two others in just four days. This feat not only decimated the enemy’s destroyer fleet but also forced a premature departure of Admiral Ozawa’s Mobile Fleet from Tawi-Tawi, altering the course of the war in the Pacific.
Cmdr. Dealey’s leadership and the submarine’s aggressive tactics were instrumental in the Allied forces’ success. Dealey, posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, was among the most decorated American service members for valor during the war, receiving multiple honors for his extraordinary heroism.
The USS Harder’s final moments came in late August 1944. After a successful attack with the USS Haddo, sinking three escort ships off Bataan, the Harder met its fate. On August 24, while attempting to evade an enemy escort ship and patrol boat, the submarine took its last dive.
The discovery of the USS Harder is not just about finding a lost submarine; it’s about reconnecting with a pivotal chapter in history. The Lost 52 Project’s use of 4D photogrammetry to create a detailed model of the wreck allows for an unprecedented study of the site, offering a window into the past.
The Naval History and Heritage Command has confirmed the wreck site, providing a tangible link to the bravery and sacrifices of the sailors who served aboard the USS Harder. The submarine’s legacy, encapsulated by its motto “Hit ‘em HARDER,” continues to inspire as a symbol of the relentless pursuit of victory at sea.
As we reflect on the discovery of the USS Harder, we are reminded of the price of victory and the cost of freedom. The submarine’s resting place, now known, serves as a solemn tribute to those who fought with valor and made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The Lost 52 Project’s ongoing mission to locate and memorialize the 52 submarines lost during World War II ensures that the stories of these vessels and their crews will not be forgotten.
In the annals of naval history, the USS Harder stands as a testament to the courage and tenacity of the Greatest Generation. Its discovery reaffirms our commitment to honoring the valor of those who served and preserving their legacy for future generations.
