USS S-4: A Submarine Lost to the Depths

The USS S-4, a S-class submarine of the United States Navy, met a tragic end in December 1927. Its loss, alongside those of sister submarines like the USS S-44, USS S-48, USS S-41, USS S-42, and USS S-49, marked a period of profound loss and reflection for the Navy. The S-class submarines, though small and limited in range, played a vital role in the development of US submarine warfare. This article explores the history of the USS S-4, its design and capabilities, the fateful events leading to its sinking, and the lessons learned from this tragic incident.

The S-Class Submarines: A Brief Overview

The S-class submarines were a series of 51 submarines built for the United States Navy in the 1910s and early 1920s. They were the first submarines built for the Navy after World War I, and they were designed to be smaller and more maneuverable than the previous classes. The S-class submarines were intended for coastal defense and patrol duties, particularly in the Atlantic Ocean. While smaller than their predecessors, they were not insignificant. They measured around 230 feet in length, displaced 845 tons submerged, and could achieve a submerged speed of 11 knots. They were armed with four 21-inch torpedo tubes and a 3-inch deck gun, allowing them to engage in both underwater and surface combat. The S-class submarines played a significant role in the development of US submarine warfare. They provided valuable experience for the Navy in operating and maintaining submarines, and they helped to develop new technologies and tactics. However, their design also came with inherent limitations. Their small size and limited range made them vulnerable to attack, and their lack of modern sonar technology hampered their ability to detect enemy vessels.

USS S-4: A Brief History

The USS S-4 was laid down on July 1, 1919, at the New London Ship and Engine Company in Groton, Connecticut. It was launched on October 25, 1920, and commissioned into the United States Navy on February 5, 1921. Like many of its sister ships, the USS S-4 was assigned to the US Atlantic Fleet. It participated in various training exercises and deployments along the Atlantic Coast, honing its crew's skills and ensuring readiness. The USS S-4 was known for its capable crew and its dedication to duty. It was commanded by Lieutenant Commander John Henry Paul, an experienced submarine officer with a distinguished record. Paul was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his unwavering commitment to safety.

The Sinking of the USS S-4: A Tragedy Unfolding

On December 17, 1927, the USS S-4 was conducting a routine training exercise in the waters off the coast of Provincetown, Massachusetts, alongside other submarines, including the USS S-44. The exercise involved the S-4 acting as a target for a mock attack by the USS S-44. During the exercise, the S-4 submerged at approximately 1:30 PM. After that, the submarine was never seen again. The initial assumption was that the S-4 had become entangled in the nets used in the exercise. However, it soon became clear that something more sinister had occurred. The S-4's failure to surface after its scheduled dive, coupled with the absence of any distress signals, signaled a tragedy of immense proportions.

The Search and Rescue Efforts: A Race Against Time

Immediately after the S-4's disappearance, a massive search and rescue operation was launched. The US Navy, the Coast Guard, and civilian vessels from the region joined the effort, utilizing surface ships, submarines, and aircraft. The search efforts extended for weeks, covering a vast area of the Atlantic Ocean. Divers, utilizing innovative diving techniques for the time, were dispatched to the seabed to explore the suspected crash site. The search was fraught with challenges, with harsh weather conditions and limited visibility hampering the efforts. Tragically, on December 21, 1927, the S-4 was located on the seabed, resting on its port side. The submarine lay submerged at a depth of approximately 240 feet, making recovery efforts incredibly difficult. The location of the wreck provided clues about the sinking.

Investigating the Cause of the Sinking: A Technical Examination

The investigation into the cause of the S-4's sinking revealed that a combination of factors contributed to the tragic loss. It was determined that a failure of the submarine's main ballast tanks led to its rapid descent and ultimately, its inability to resurface. Further examination revealed that the tank valve, designed to control the flow of water into and out of the ballast tanks, had failed to close properly. This allowed water to flood the tanks uncontrollably, forcing the S-4 to rapidly descend to the seabed. The investigation concluded that the tank valve malfunction was likely due to a combination of design flaws and inadequate maintenance procedures.

Lessons Learned from the Sinking of the USS S-4

The sinking of the USS S-4 was a devastating loss for the Navy, costing the lives of 40 men, including Lieutenant Commander Paul. However, it also provided invaluable lessons that shaped the future of submarine safety and design. The tragedy prompted a series of investigations and inquiries, leading to significant changes in submarine safety regulations and design standards. The Navy implemented new safety protocols for submarine operations, including stricter maintenance procedures for ballast tanks, improved training for submarine crews, and the development of new safety devices. The loss of the S-4 also highlighted the need for improved submarine design. Subsequent submarine designs incorporated more robust ballast tank systems and improved safety features, such as emergency surfacing systems and increased redundancy in crucial components.

A Lasting Legacy: Remembering the USS S-4 and Its Crew

The sinking of the USS S-4 is remembered as a dark chapter in the history of the US Navy. The loss of 40 crew members serves as a solemn reminder of the risks associated with submarine service and the importance of safety. The tragedy of the S-4 continues to be a focal point for discussions on submarine safety, underscoring the importance of continuous improvement and technological advancements in submarine design and operation. The memory of the USS S-4 and its crew lives on through memorials and historical records. The submarine's bell, recovered from the wreck, is displayed at the submarine base in Groton, Connecticut, where the S-4 was built. The names of the fallen crew are inscribed on monuments at the US Naval Academy and at the National Museum of the United States Navy. The tragedy of the USS S-4, while a devastating loss, served as a catalyst for positive change within the US Navy. The lessons learned from this incident continue to inform submarine safety protocols and design principles to this day, ensuring the safety of those who serve on our nation's underwater fleet.