Wreckage of USS Wasp Located

The Wreckage of USS Wasp was uncovered in mid-March 2019 by the dedicated expedition team aboard Research Vessel (R/V) Petrel, a discovery that adds to their impressive record of uncovering significant World War II shipwrecks. Originally located in January 2019, the wreckage of USS Wasp (CV-7), a US Navy aircraft carrier, was confirmed in March, lying nearly 14,000 feet deep in the Coral Sea off the coast of Australia. This remarkable find continues the legacy of Paul Allen, the late Microsoft co-founder, whose vision to preserve wartime history is being realized through these underwater expeditions.

USS Wasp (CV-7) was launched in 1939 and began her service as part of the Atlantic Fleet. Early in World War II, she played a crucial role in assisting the British forces to maintain control over Malta. However, with the attack on Pearl Harbor and the Pacific theater heating up, USS Wasp was reassigned to the Pacific Fleet in June 1942, joining Task Force 37.

During this critical time, the Pacific Fleet was left with only three operational aircraft carriers after the Battles of the Coral Sea and Midway. USS Wasp became an essential asset in the U.S. Navy’s efforts to regain control of the Pacific, including providing air support during the invasion of Guadalcanal.

On September 15, 1942, while ferrying troops to Guadalcanal, USS Wasp came under attack from the Japanese submarine I-19. Six Type 95 torpedoes were launched, with three striking the aircraft carrier. Lacking sufficient armor, the carrier was unable to withstand the devastating blows.

One torpedo breached the surface, hitting Wasp near gasoline tanks and ammunition magazines, causing catastrophic explosions and fires. The attack claimed the lives of 193 crew members. However, thanks to the swift actions of USS Laffey (DD-459), USS Lansdowne (DD-486), USS Helena (CL-50), and USS Salt Lake City (CA-25), a total of 1,946 crew members were rescued.

For her contributions to the war effort, USS Wasp earned two battle stars as part of the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal.

When the R/V Petrel expedition located USS Wasp, the carrier was found upright, with visible damage to parts of her hull. The ship’s remarkable condition provides valuable insights into the events that led to her sinking, offering a unique opportunity to study history beneath the waves.

This discovery highlights the ongoing mission of R/V Petrel to uncover significant historical wrecks while honoring the sacrifices of those who served during the war. The team’s dedication ensures these wrecks are protected from exploitation, with their exact locations shared only with relevant national governments and museums.

The R/V Petrel, funded and inspired by Paul Allen, represents one of his crowning achievements in preserving history. Since his passing in October 2018, the vessel has uncovered numerous iconic wrecks, including the aircraft carrier USS Lexington (CV-2) and the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis (CA-35).

The discovery of USS Wasp is another testament to the expedition’s relentless efforts. By revealing these wartime relics, they bring attention to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served, ensuring that their stories remain alive for generations to come.

R/V Petrel shows no signs of slowing down in its mission to locate and document significant shipwrecks from World War II. Each discovery serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made and the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom.

The wreckage of USS Wasp now rests as a silent guardian of history, deep in the waters of the Coral Sea. Its discovery underscores the importance of preserving our past while honoring the courage and resilience of the heroes who shaped it.