Back in Time Today
Explore the incredible heroism aboard the USS Growler during World War II, focusing on the remarkable actions and ultimate sacrifice of Commander Howard W. Gilmore and his crew.
Amid challenging missions, unexpected encounters, and brave decisions, their story remains a testament to courage and selflessness.
1. The Date: January 10, 1943
On a bitterly cold night in the Pacific, January 10, 1943, the USS Growler found itself deep in enemy territory, carrying out a high-stakes mission against Japanese forces.
The chilling winds swept across the submarine’s deck, as frosty waves crashed against its hull. Silently gliding through these perilous waters, the crew remained vigilant, knowing that danger lurked beneath the tranquil surface.
The stakes were high, and every decision mattered. The Growler’s mission was stealthy and daring, aimed at disrupting enemy operations while avoiding detection. The night would soon unfold into one of naval history’s most unforgettable episodes.
2. Commander Howard W. Gilmore
Commander Howard W. Gilmore was a veteran naval officer, respected for his strategic prowess and calm demeanor under pressure. Already renowned for leading successful patrols, Gilmore’s reputation as both a tactician and a leader was well-earned.
Aboard the USS Growler, he commanded with an air of confidence and composure, trusted implicitly by his crew. However, this mission would test his limits, revealing a heroism that transcended the ordinary. Gilmore’s steadfast commitment to his men and mission would soon become legendary, marking him as a figure of enduring courage and sacrifice in naval lore.
3. An Unexpected Encounter
The silent waves of the Pacific were interrupted by an unexpected encounter. As the USS Growler surfaced, it spotted an enemy armed patrol vessel looming in the darkness. The Japanese ship, upon realizing the submarine’s presence, reversed course and charged aggressively.
A tense stand-off ensued, with the enemy vessel looming larger with each passing second. Commander Gilmore and his crew had mere moments to react to this unforeseen threat, their minds racing to devise a strategy. This encounter highlighted the unpredictable nature of naval warfare, where split-second decisions could mean the difference between life and death.
4. The Daring Decision to Ram
In a move that defied conventional tactics, Commander Gilmore made the audacious decision to ram the enemy ship. With desperation in the air, he ordered the Growler to accelerate to 17 knots, turning the submarine into an unlikely battering ram.
Such a decision was nearly unheard of for a submarine, yet the perilous situation demanded extraordinary measures. As the Growler surged forward, its prow sliced through the ocean’s surface with determined ferocity. This bold maneuver was a testament to Gilmore’s willingness to take unprecedented risks to ensure the survival of his crew amidst daunting odds.
5. The Violent Collision
With a thunderous crash, the USS Growler collided with the Japanese vessel, the impact crumpling its bow and bending the submarine’s structure. The sound of metal against metal reverberated through the icy night air, leaving both ships stunned and damaged.
For a moment, time seemed to stand still as the crew grappled with the chaos unleashed by the violent collision. Though the Growler had sustained significant damage, the daring maneuver had momentarily incapacitated the enemy. This dramatic episode underscored the gritty reality of naval combat, where survival often hinged on bold and decisive actions.
6. Gunfire on the Bridge
Following the collision, chaos erupted on the USS Growler’s bridge. Enemy sailors, now within close range, opened fire with relentless ferocity. Commander Gilmore, along with several officers, was struck by enemy bullets.
Despite his injuries, Gilmore maintained his composure, continuing to direct his crew with unwavering resolve. The bridge was a cacophony of gunfire and shouted commands, yet Gilmore’s voice rose above the fray. His determination inspired his men to fight on, demonstrating a remarkable example of leadership under fire. In this intense confrontation, every second became a fight for survival.
7. The Immortal Command: “Take Her Down!”
Realizing his grave injuries and the immediate danger to his crew, Commander Gilmore made the ultimate sacrifice. Understanding that remaining surfaced would doom them all, he issued his final command: “Take her down!”
This order demanded the crew to submerge the submarine, a decision sealing Gilmore’s fate. His selfless act ensured the safety of his men, even at the cost of his own life. This immortal command, uttered with clarity and courage, has echoed through naval history, symbolizing the profound duty and heroism that defined Gilmore’s legacy.
8. The Crew’s Survival
Galvanized by their commander’s final words, the crew of the USS Growler worked with synchronized precision to submerge the vessel. As they descended into the depths, the immediate threat vanished, replaced by a grim resolve to survive.
Though their leader was lost, his spirit endured in the hearts of his men. Each member played a crucial role in navigating the damaged submarine to safety. The crew’s collective action in the face of adversity was a testament to the incredible leadership of Gilmore and their unwavering camaraderie. Together, they honored their fallen commander through survival.
9. A Medal of Honor for Valor
Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, Commander Gilmore became the first submarine commander of World War II to receive this distinguished recognition. This accolade was a tribute to his extraordinary valor and selflessness.
The medal, a symbol of ultimate bravery, reflected the gravity of his sacrifice. Gilmore’s actions resonated throughout the naval community, inspiring future generations of servicemen. His story is recounted not only as a tale of personal sacrifice but also as a broader narrative of duty and honor, celebrating the indomitable spirit that defined him and his crew.
10. A Legacy That Lives On
The phrase “Take her down” remains etched in naval history as one of its most iconic commands. Commander Gilmore’s legacy endures, celebrated in museums and memorials, his story retold as a testament to bravery and sacrifice.
Visitors to naval heritage sites often pause to reflect on his courage, drawing inspiration from his actions. Gilmore’s name is synonymous with heroism, a beacon for those who serve. His legacy is a living reminder of the profound impact one individual’s sacrifice can have, shaping the course of history and the lives of countless others.