Do you know about the USS Thresher? (SSN-593 not SS-200)?

Question

My grandfather died on this submarine and I wanted to see how many people have actually heard of it. I think it is a shame that this isn't part of history lessons. It is one of the only nuclear subs to go down when we weren't in a time of war. So I just wanted to see if you've heard of it. If you could include your age I would aprreciate it.

Answer 1

All Americans should know about the mishap at sea involving the Thresher, and also the USS Scorpian, too. No other US subs lost since then , though

Answer 2

USS Thresher was the name ship of a new design of US Naval Submarines She was built Electric Boat in New London CT in 1958 Launched in 1961 she was lost just two years later on a deep test dive. Read http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_Thresher_%28SSN-593%29 for more history.

The Captain reported that the ship was dry at 400 feet then she continued to dive at about 1000 ft they believe that a pipe burst in the engine room and started to flood the boat. the Thresher reported that it was trying to get to the surface. But because of the water in the engine room it was to heavy.

She boat then sank to the bottom of the sea and broke up. She was discovered in a major search and recovery operation. It was thought that the brazing on the pipes in the engine room was inadequate but not badly enough to need repair but that the water shorted out a panel which contributed to the loss.

I hope that this help you please read the above mentioned article and any more that you find useful. God Bless your Grandfather and your Family. God help all the families of the subs that are on Eternal Patrol.

Answer 3

I'm sure many of us remember the tragedy. It should be as important as a shuttle loss, but naval losses are so commonplace as to be ignored. Do you recall how many Russians have died similarly? Not to detract from the Thresher! There cannot be many more frightening ways to go.

Answer 4

I was a Government inspector on what is termed level I sub safe material when she went down we were ordered to transport our records to the Federal Building in Norfolk Virginia as part of the investigation by NCIS and SUPSHIPS. My lead QAR (Quality Assurance Specialist) when my lead guy was on his way he stupidly put them on the back of his motorcycle where they quickly blew away. We were under suspicion for months. Sorry to hear about your grandfather I can assure of one thing they did not suffer or even had time to be scared.

God Bless You and men and women along with our Southern People.

Answer 5

Yes I remember it and have seen articles and TV history shows about it. I was young when it happened but I come from a naval heritage. I am 50.

Answer 6

Yes - I remember the newspaper reports. I am 66.