USS F-1

On December 17, 1917, a tragic accident occurred off the coast of California involving two United States Navy submarines, the USS F-1 and the USS F-3. This incident, occurring during World War I, stands as a somber reminder of the perils faced by early submariners.

The USS F-1 (originally named Carp) and the USS F-3 (originally named Skate) were part of the F-class of submarines, commissioned in 1912 and 1913 respectively. These submarines, considered advanced for their time, were designed for coastal defense and training purposes.

On the fateful day of December 17, 1917, the submarines were engaged in training exercises off the coast of San Diego, California. The exercise involved a mock battle scenario designed to simulate combat conditions and improve the crew’s readiness and coordination.

As part of the exercise, the submarines were maneuvering at periscope depth, a standard practice that allows submarines to observe surface conditions while remaining largely hidden underwater. Tragically, during these maneuvers, the USS F-1 and USS F-3 collided.

The collision was a result of a miscommunication and misjudgment of distances between the two vessels. The USS F-1, under the command of Lieutenant Arthur MacArthur IV, accidentally crossed the bow of the USS F-3. The impact was severe, and the USS F-1 suffered catastrophic damage to its hull, causing it to quickly sink.

The accident resulted in the loss of 19 of the 24 crew members aboard the USS F-1. Rescue efforts were swiftly initiated, but the depth and conditions of the ocean made the operation challenging. The five survivors were rescued by the USS F-3, which sustained minor damage but remained afloat.

An inquiry into the accident was conducted, and it concluded that the collision was an unfortunate accident, with no individual blame assigned. However, the incident led to a reevaluation of training exercises and protocols within the submarine fleet to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The sinking of the USS F-1 is one of the earliest recorded submarine disasters in the United States Navy’s history. It highlighted the inherent risks of submarine operations, especially during a time when the technology was still in its infancy.

The loss of the USS F-1 and its crew is commemorated in naval history as a reminder of the sacrifices made by submariners and the continuous evolution of submarine safety and operational standards. The incident remains a pivotal moment in undersea naval warfare, shaping future strategies and training procedures.

The accident involving the USS F-1 and USS F-3 serves as a historical example of the challenges and dangers faced by early submariners. It underscores the importance of rigorous training, clear communication, and the constant advancement of submarine technology to ensure the safety of those who bravely operate beneath the waves.