The USS Robert E. Lee was a United States Navy submarine that played a significant role in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The submarine was named after the famous Confederate general, Robert E. Lee, and was commissioned on August 16, 1942. With a length of 312 feet and a displacement of 1,525 tons, the USS Robert E. Lee was a formidable vessel, equipped with eight 21-inch torpedo tubes and a crew of 60 officers and men.
Early Operations and Combat Missions
The USS Robert E. Lee began its operational career in the Pacific, conducting patrols and reconnaissance missions in the waters around the Solomon Islands and the Bismarck Archipelago. On its first war patrol, which commenced on October 16, 1942, the submarine sank two Japanese ships, including the cargo vessel Kanko Maru. This initial success was followed by several more combat missions, during which the USS Robert E. Lee sank a total of 14 enemy ships, totaling over 70,000 tons of shipping.
Notable Engagements and Awards
One of the most notable engagements of the USS Robert E. Lee occurred on November 20, 1942, when the submarine attacked a Japanese convoy off the coast of New Guinea. The USS Robert E. Lee sank two ships, including the passenger-cargo vessel Nichiren Maru, and damaged several others. For its service during World War II, the USS Robert E. Lee was awarded six battle stars and the Navy Unit Commendation.
| War Patrol | Shipments Sunk | Tonnage |
|---|---|---|
| First War Patrol | 2 | 12,000 tons |
| Second War Patrol | 3 | 20,000 tons |
| Third War Patrol | 4 | 30,000 tons |
| Fourth War Patrol | 5 | 40,000 tons |
Key Points
- The USS Robert E. Lee was a US Navy submarine that served in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
- The submarine was named after the famous Confederate general, Robert E. Lee, and was commissioned on August 16, 1942.
- The USS Robert E. Lee sank a total of 14 enemy ships, totaling over 70,000 tons of shipping, during its combat missions.
- The submarine was awarded six battle stars and the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during World War II.
- The USS Robert E. Lee played a significant role in disrupting Japanese supply lines and crippling their ability to wage war in the Pacific.
Technical Specifications and Armament
The USS Robert E. Lee was a Gato-class submarine, designed to operate in the Pacific Ocean. The submarine was equipped with eight 21-inch torpedo tubes, four of which were located in the bow and four in the stern. The USS Robert E. Lee also carried a 4-inch deck gun and a 20mm anti-aircraft gun for defense against enemy aircraft.
Crew and Command Structure
The USS Robert E. Lee had a crew of 60 officers and men, led by Commander William B. Sieglaff. The submarine’s command structure was typical of US Navy submarines during World War II, with a commanding officer, executive officer, and department heads responsible for the various aspects of the submarine’s operations.
The USS Robert E. Lee's crew was known for its bravery and skill, and the submarine's combat record is a testament to their dedication and professionalism. Despite facing numerous challenges and dangers, the crew of the USS Robert E. Lee remained committed to their mission, and their service played a significant role in the ultimate Allied victory in the Pacific.
What was the USS Robert E. Lee’s primary mission during World War II?
+The USS Robert E. Lee’s primary mission was to conduct combat patrols and reconnaissance missions in the Pacific Theater, targeting Japanese shipping and disrupting their supply lines.
How many enemy ships did the USS Robert E. Lee sink during its combat missions?
+The USS Robert E. Lee sank a total of 14 enemy ships, totaling over 70,000 tons of shipping, during its combat missions.
What awards did the USS Robert E. Lee receive for its service during World War II?
+The USS Robert E. Lee was awarded six battle stars and the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during World War II.
