National Submarine Day

This wonderful holiday recognizes that the service of military units at sea is harsh and difficult. National Submarine Day is observed on April 11. Navy crews are on duty at sea for weeks or even months. They do not see their relatives, have a limited food supply, and limited means of communication. Servicemen must perform combat and training tasks, and facing both enemies and the challenges of nature can be grueling. This national holiday is an opportunity to remember the brave military personnel and express respect for their work.

History

This holiday commemorates the founding of the American submarine fleet. The first combat vessel was the USS Holland. The actual predecessor of the submarine was a 10-foot-long vessel, the USS Alligator. It was launched in the mid-19th century. An interesting feature distinguishing this vessel was its ability to dive underwater to a depth of about 20 feet. The boat was not intended for military service. In 1863, she sank in a violent storm. The USS Holland was designed by Irish craftsman John Philip Holland in 1840. He was an inventor who learned engineering on his own. In 1873, the boat became part of the U.S. Navy, its first combat unit.

Fun Facts

The USS Holland was commissioned at the beginning of the 20th century. Its appearance changed from the original. A double deck was added. The engineer who built the boat was dissatisfied, believing the deck should be free of additional structures.

1. A major disadvantage of the Holland was the absence of a periscope on board. This submarine had to surface for the commander to receive objective information about the situation. The Holland could not act covertly and was easy to detect!
2. The ideas of Holland’s creator were ahead of their time and could only be fully realized when scientists studied nuclear potential in detail.
3. Historically, women were not allowed to become part of a submarine crew, but this has changed in recent years with more inclusive policies.

Submarines participate in large-scale wars when the ocean becomes a battlefield. The Nautilus was elusive, invisible, had great combat potential, could act covertly, and was surrounded by mystery. This dangerous service involves significant risk. Discard the romanticism, and the harsh truth remains. Watch an informative film, visit the Navy Museum, take a walk to monuments in memory of naval defenders, and congratulate those involved in this service.

When is National Submarine Day in 2025?

National Submarine Day is observed on April 11 each year.

Observations