Operation Barney: Revenge for a Lost Submarine

Operation Barney: Revenge for a Lost Submarine recounts one of the most daring missions of World War II, involving the USS Bowfin and eight other submarines. This high-stakes operation not only honored the memory of the USS Wahoo but also showcased the resilience and ingenuity of the U.S. Navy.

Launched exactly one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the USS Bowfin, nicknamed the “Pearl Harbor Avenger,” embarked on her ninth and final war patrol as part of Operation Barney. The mission’s objective was clear but perilous: infiltrate the Sea of Japan, disrupt Japanese shipping, and avenge the loss of the USS Wahoo.

Vice Admiral Charles A. Lockwood, commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Submarine Force, conceptualized Operation Barney after the tragic sinking of the USS Wahoo in 1943. Lockwood’s determination to avenge this loss culminated in a meticulously planned mission. Central to its execution was FM sonar technology, a revolutionary system capable of detecting underwater mines. This innovation provided a glimmer of hope for navigating the treacherous Tsushima Strait, a mine-laden gateway to the Sea of Japan.

Commander William “Barney” Sieglaff was tasked with training the fleet and refining the strategy. Despite the risks, the mission moved forward, assembling nine submarines into three groups known collectively as Hydeman’s Hellcats.

On May 29, 1945, the USS Bowfin, part of the Bobcats group, and her sister submarines began their perilous journey. Passing through the Tsushima Strait, the fleet faced constant danger from mines. The FM sonar, though effective, emitted a haunting chime whenever mines were detected nearby. Dubbed “Hell’s Bells,” this sound was a relentless reminder of the imminent threats surrounding the submarines.

Adding to the tension, cables from mines occasionally scraped against the hulls, creating nerve-wracking moments. Yet, the Bowfin successfully navigated the strait, emerging into the Sea of Japan unscathed and ready to carry out her mission.

Once in the Sea of Japan, the USS Bowfin focused on disrupting Japanese shipping. On June 11, she spotted and sank the Shinyo Maru, a solo cargo ship vital to Japan’s supply lines. Two days later, she struck again, destroying the Akiura Maru freighter. These victories highlighted the effectiveness of Operation Barney in weakening Japan’s war efforts.

The Bowfin’s actions during this patrol earned her a distinguished place in naval history, underscoring the bravery and precision of her crew.

Traveling at high speeds, they evaded Japanese defenses, marking the successful conclusion of the mission. Sadly, the USS Bonefish was lost during this phase, a sobering reminder of the operation’s dangers.

The USS Bowfin returned to Pearl Harbor on July 4, 1945, earning accolades for her pivotal role in Operation Barney. Credited with sinking 6,400 tons of enemy shipping, the Bowfin exemplified resilience and valor. Vice Admiral Lockwood himself honored the participating submarines, dubbing them the “Mighty Mine Dodgers.”

Today, the USS Bowfin serves as a museum and memorial at Pearl Harbor, preserving the legacy of the submarine force’s contributions during World War II. Operation Barney stands as a testament to the U.S. Navy’s innovation, determination, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

Visitors to the Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park can explore this historic vessel and learn about her extraordinary missions, including her role in Operation Barney—a mission that turned the tide of war and avenged the USS Wahoo’s tragic loss.

This daring operation continues to inspire, reminding us of the sacrifices made to secure victory and the indomitable spirit of the U.S. Navy.