French
DeutschList of shipwrecks in January 1945
The list of shipwrecks in January 1945 includes ships sunk, foundered, grounded, or otherwise lost during January 1945.
| January 1945 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 |
| 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 |
| 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
| 29 | 30 | 31 | Unknown date | |||
| References | ||||||
1 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Kyokko Maru |  Japan | World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank in the Andaman Sea off the Mergui Archipelago, Malaya.[1] |
2 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CD-138 |  Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy MATA-38A: The Type D escort ship was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon, Philippines (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force. All 82 crew members were lost.[2] |
| Choei Maru No. 27 Go | Imperial Japanese Navy | The auxiliary guard boat was lost on this date. |
| Daian Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea east of Madoera, Netherlands East Indies (05°50′S 113°12′E / 5.833°S 113.200°E) by USS Becuna ( United States Navy).[3] |
| Hakka Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force. Twenty-four crewmen were killed.[4] |
| HMT Hayburn Wyke |  Royal Navy | World War II: The naval trawler (324 GRT, 1917) was torpedoed and sunk in the North Sea off Ostend, West Flanders, Belgium (51°15′N 02°48′E / 51.250°N 2.800°E) by the Seehund midget submarine U-5304 ( Kriegsmarine).[5][6] |
| Hishigata Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy MATA-38A: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force with the loss of a crewman and 56 passengers.[4] |
| John M. Clayton | United States | World War II: The Liberty ship was bombed and damaged at Mindoro, Philippines by Japanese aircraft and was beached with a loss of four Naval Armed Guards. She was later repaired and returned to service as USS Harcourt.[7][8] |
| Koryo Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[4] |
| Meiru Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy MATA-38A: The transport was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force with the loss of 60 crew and 400 passengers.[4] |
| SF 320 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Siebel ferry was scuttled in the port of Memel.[9] |
| Shinshū Maru |  Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Convoy MATA-40: The landing craft depot ship (a.k.a. Fuso Maru) was torpedoed and damaged by USS Aspro ( United States Navy) south of the Formosa Strait (21°51′N 119°44′E / 21.850°N 119.733°E). She was sunk the next day by United States Navy aircraft 47 nautical miles (87 km) off Takao, Formosa. A total of 66 gunners, 33 crewmen and 283 soldiers were killed.[10] |
| Shirakawa Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force. 24 crewmen were killed.[4][11] |
| Taishen Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk at San Fernando, Luzon (16°37′N 120°19′E / 16.617°N 120.317°E) by Douglas A-20 Havoc and Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft of the United States Fifth Air Force.[4] |
| Yu 1 | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The Type 3 submergence transport vehicle sank during an American air raid in at Port Poro, Luzon. She was salvaged on 18 January 1945 by USS Grasp ( United States Navy).[12] |
3 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CHa-10 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The No.1-class auxiliary submarine chaser was bombed and sunk off Davao, Mindanao, Philippines (07°04′N 125°37′E / 7.067°N 125.617°E) by North American B-25 Mitchell aircraft of the United States Thirteenth Air Force.[13] Other sources indicate that she was sunk in action on 18 March 1944.[14] |
| Henry Miller | United States | World War II: Convoy GUS 63: The Liberty ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea (35°51′N 6°24′W / 35.850°N 6.400°W) by U-870 ( Kriegsmarine). Fifty of her 72 crew were taken off by USS Brunswick ( United States Navy). She sailed to Gibraltar but was declared a constructive total loss.[15][16] |
| Kawauchi Maru no. 22 | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the west coast of Formosa by United States Navy aircraft.[17] |
| Kinrei Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the west coast of Formosa by United States Navy aircraft.[18] |
| Sanni Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the west coast of Formosa by United States Navy aircraft.[19] |
| HMS Shakespeare | Royal Navy | World War II: The S-class submarine was shelled and damaged by a Japanese merchant ship in Nankauri Strait, Andaman Islands, and later damaged by bombs from aircraft. She was declared a constructive total loss and sold for scrap 14 July 1946.[20] |
| Shibazono Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy No. 4101: The freighter was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean (30°21′N 142°15′E / 30.350°N 142.250°E) by USS Kingfish ( United States Navy). Fifty-seven crewmen were killed.[5][21] |
| Shinshū Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Convoy MATA-40: The Shinshū Maru-class landing craft depot ship (a.k.a. Fuso Maru) was bombed by carrier aircraft from Task Force 38 in the Formosa Strait about 47 miles (76 km) off Takao, Formosa. Survivors were taken off by convoy escorts. 66 gunners, 33 crewmen and 283 soldiers were killed. She sank that evening.[22] |
| Shoto Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Convoy No. 4104: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean by USS Kingfish ( United States Navy). Six crew were killed. Survivors were rescued by Takunan Maru No.2 ( Imperial Japanese Navy).[23] |
| Ume Maru no. 2 | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the west coast of Formosa by United States Navy aircraft.[24] |
| Yaei Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy No. 4101: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean (30°21′N 142°15′E / 30.350°N 142.250°E) by USS Kingfish ( United States Navy). Two passengers, two gunners, and 27 crewmen were killed.[21] |
4 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CHa-163 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The CHa-1-class auxiliary submarine chaser was damaged by United States Navy aircraft in the Formosa Strait and was consequently scuttled.[8] |
| CHa-176 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The CHa-1-class auxiliary submarine chaser was sunk by United States Navy aircraft in the Formosa Strait.[8] |
| CHa-210 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The CHa-1-class auxiliary submarine chaser was sunk in the Formosa Strait by United States Navy aircraft. |
| HMHDML 1163 | Royal Navy | World War II: The Harbour Defence Motor Launch (46/54 t, 1942) was torpedoed and sunk in Bregulie Bay by S 33 ( Kriegsmarine), killing all 11 men aboard.[5][25][26] |
| Horikoshi Maru No. 15 | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The cargo ship was mined and sunk in the Pacific Ocean north east of Mukai Jima.[27] |
| Iwato Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Shinto Maru No. 2-class auxiliary transport ship was bombed and sunk by United States Navy Task Force 38 aircraft north east of Formosa. Seven crew were killed.[8][28] |
| Lewis L. Dyche | United States | World War II: The Liberty ship exploded when a kamikaze detonated her cargo of bombs and fuzes south of Mindoro, Philippines (12°19′N 121°04′E / 12.317°N 121.067°E). She was lost with all crew (43 merchant crew and 28 Armed Guard gunners). The explosion damaged oiler USS Pecos, minelayer USS Monadnock, seaplane tender USS Half Moon, 2 PT boats and one infantry landing craft (all United States Navy), killing three more men and wounding 14.[8][29] |
| Lütjehorn |  Germany | World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and sank off in the Baltic Sea off Kolberg, Pomerania.[5] |
| Nipiwan Park |  Canada | World War II: Convoy SH 194: The Park ship (2,373 GRT, 1943) was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean four nautical miles (7.4 km; 4.6 mi) off Halifax, Nova Scotia (44°30′N 63°00′W / 44.500°N 63.000°W) by U-1232 ( Kriegsmarine). She broke in two, with the bow section sinking. A new bow section was constructed and she was returned to service in November 1946. Two crew members perished in the incident.[30][31][32] |
| USS Ommaney Bay | United States Navy | World War II: The Casablanca-class escort carrier was severely damaged by a Japanese kamikaze aircraft in the Sulu Sea. Heavy fires forced the crew to abandon her and the torpedo store exploded while destroyers were rescuing them. 95 sailors were killed, including two from USS Eichenberger ( United States Navy) and 65 were wounded. She was scuttled by USS Burns ( United States Navy). Seven survivors were killed in the next days aboard USS Columbia ( United States Navy when she was twice hit by kamikazes.[33] |
| Oregon I |  United Kingdom | The cargo ship (4,774 GRT, 1916) was driven ashore at Wilson's Point, Bangor, County Down, and broke in two. Both sections were refloated in October and scrapped.[34] |
| Polarland |  Norway | World War II: Convoy SH 194: The cargo ship (1,591 GRT, 1923) was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean 4 nautical miles (7.4 km) off Halifax, Nova Scotia (44°30′N 63°00′W / 44.500°N 63.000°W) by U-1232 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of seventeen of her 22 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMCS Kentville ( Royal Canadian Navy).[35] |
| S-4 |  Soviet Navy | World War II: The S-class submarine was rammed, depth charged and sunk by T3 ( Kriegsmarine) in Danzig Bay. All 48 crew were lost.[36][37] |
| Sperrbrecher 11 Belgrano | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Sperrbrecher struck a mine and was severely damaged in the Baltic Sea off the Flensburg Fjord. She was repaired in 1946 and placed in service with the German Mine Sweeping Administration.[5][38] |
| V 1255 Ernst Hecht | Kriegsmarine | The Vorpostenboot ran aground at the mouth of the Ems river and was wrecked. The whole crew was rescued.[39][40] |
| W-41 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy MATA-36B: The W-19-class minesweeper was damaged off Kaika, Kainan Island, Formosa by United States Navy carrier-based aircraft and was beached. Refloated, repaired and returned to service by mid-February.[41] |
| USS YCF-59 | United States Navy | The car float sprang a leak and was beached in the Delaware River to prevent sinking.[8] |
5 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CHANT 68 | United Kingdom | The Channel tanker (400 GRT, 1944) capsized and sank at Grangemouth Harbour, Stirlingshire while under repair. Although she was raised on 23 January, it was deemed uneconomic to repair her, and she was scrapped.[42] |
| Elsaß | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The minelayer struck a mine and sank in the Kattegat east of Samsø, Denmark. 100 crew died and 113 were rescued.[5][40] |
| HA-71 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Type C Kō-hyōteki-class midget submarine was bombed and sunk two nautical miles (3.7 km; 2.3 mi) west south west of Chichi Jima by Consolidated PB4Y Liberator aircraft of Squadron VPB-111, United States Navy.[43] |
| HA-82 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Type C Kō-hyōteki-class midget submarine was depth charged, rammed and sunk in the Surigao Strait by USS Taylor ( United States Navy).[44] |
| Kanko Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Choko Maru-class auxiliary netlayer (909 GRT) was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea 44 nautical miles (81 km; 51 mi) north north west of Bawean Island, Netherlands East Indies (05°00′N 112°20′E / 5.000°N 112.333°E) by USS Cavalla ( United States Navy).[45][46] |
| Momi | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Matsu-class destroyer was torpedoed and sunk 28 nautical miles (52 km; 32 mi) west south west of Manila, Philippines (14°00′N 120°20′E / 14.000°N 120.333°E) by United States Navy aircraft. The ship exploded and sank with the loss of all hands.[47] |
| Shunsen Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The auxiliary netlayer was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea 44 nautical miles (81 km; 51 mi) north north west of Bawean Island, Netherlands East Indies (05°00′N 112°20′E / 5.000°N 112.333°E) by USS Cavalla ( United States Navy).[48] |
| T-107 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The No. 103-class landing ship was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean west of Hahajima (26°27′N 141°11′E / 26.450°N 141.183°E) by USS Dunlap, USS Cummings, and USS Fanning ( United States Navy):[49] |
| T-154 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The No. 103-class landing ship was shelled and sunk in the Pacific Ocean near Iwo Jima (24°27′N 141°20′E / 24.450°N 141.333°E) by USS Dunlap, USS Cummings, USS Ellet, and USS Roe (all United States Navy).[49] |
6 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USS Brooks | United States Navy | World War II: The high-speed transport, a former Clemson-class destroyer, was damaged in Lingayen Gulf by a Japanese kamikaze attack with the loss of three of her crew. She was towed to San Pedro, California, but was not repaired. |
| CHa-64 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The auxiliary submarine chaser was sunk in the South China Sea off Poulo Condore Island, French Indochina by United States Army Air Force aircraft.[8] |
| Hinoki | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Matsu-class destroyer was bombed and damaged by United States Navy aircraft on 5 January. She was shelled and sunk in the approaches to Manila Bay (14°30′N 119°30′E / 14.500°N 119.500°E) the next day by USS Charles Ausburne, USS Braine, USS Russell, and USS Shaw (all United States Navy). Lost with all hands.[50][51] |
| Isaac Shelby | United States | World War II: Convoy NV 90: The Liberty ship struck a mine in the Mediterranean Sea and was severely damaged. She was declared a total loss. There were no casualties.[5][8] |
| Iyasaka Maru No. 8 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the north coast of Luzon, Philippines by United States Navy aircraft.[52] |
| Kyodo Maru | Japan | World War II: The Kyodo Maru-class cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the north coast of Luzon by United States Navy aircraft. Ten crewmen were killed.[53][54] |
| Kyoei Maru no. 3 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The tanker was bombed and sunk off the north coast of Luzon by United States Navy aircraft.[55] |
| Kyoei Maru No. 6 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The tanker was bombed and sunk in the Babuyan Channel off the north coast of Luzon by United States Navy aircraft.[56] |
| Kyoei Maru No. 10 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The tanker was bombed and sunk off the north coast of Luzon, Philippines by United States Navy aircraft.[57] |
| KT-834 | Soviet Navy | World War II: The minesweeping boat was sunk by a mine off Daugavgrīva, Latvia. One of the crew drowned after saving his commander.[58][59] |
| USS Long | United States Navy | World War II: The destroyer-minesweeper, a former Clemson-class destroyer, was sunk in Lingayen Gulf (16°12′N 120°11′E / 16.200°N 120.183°E) by a Japanese kamikaze aircraft. All crew were rescued by USS Hovey ( United States Navy). |
| MW 151 | Germany | World War II: The motor lighter was attacked off the Hellisøy Lighthouse, Norway by de Havilland Mosquito aircraft of 144 Squadron, Royal Air Force, 404 Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force, 455 Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force and 489 Squadron, Royal New Zealand Air Force and was consequently beached. Three German soldiers were killed and 14 Soviet POWs wounded. She subsequently broke up.[5][60] |
| Nanko Maru No. 1 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off the north coast of Luzon by United States Navy aircraft.[61] |
| Nanshin Maru no. 10 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The tanker was bombed and sunk off the north coast of Luzon by United States Navy aircraft.[62] |
| Nichiei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The auxiliary oiler was torpedoed and sunk in the Gulf of Thailand 60 nautical miles (110 km; 69 mi) north east of Kota Bharu, Malaya (06°45′N 102°55′E / 6.750°N 102.917°E) by USS Besugo ( United States Navy). There were 71 dead and 134 survivors who were rescued by Chiburi, CD-17, and CD-19 (all Imperial Japanese Navy).[63] |
| Nittei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | The Chowa Maru-class auxiliary collier (2,728 GRT, 1941) ran aground in fog on Himeshima Reef off the north east tip of the Noto Peninsula (37°30′N 137°22′E / 37.500°N 137.367°E) and broke in two. The whole crew stayed on the aft section and was rescued by Nosho Maru ( Japan) and Banshu Maru No. 53 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) on 8 January. The aft section sank on 10 January.[64] |
| R2N Dora Fritzen | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The transport ship was torpedoed and sunk in Stavfjord off Askvoll, Norway (62°30′00″N 4°59′02″E / 62.50000°N 4.98389°E) by HNoMS MTB 722 ( Royal Norwegian Navy). There were 94 missing.[40][65][66][67] |
| Tarakan Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy YUSA-FU2: The Type 1TM Standard Wartime merchant tanker was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean 75 nautical miles (139 km) north east of Hainan, China (19°45′N 111°25′E / 19.750°N 111.417°E) by USS Sea Robin ( United States Navy). 12 crewmembers were lost. Survivors were rescued by Hatsukari ( Imperial Japanese Navy).[68] |
| V 6701 | Kriegsmarine | The Vorpostenboot ran aground near Gimsöy, Norway and was wrecked. |
| HMS Walpole | Royal Navy | World War II: The W-class destroyer struck a mine in the North Sea off Vlissingen, Zeeland, Netherlands (52°33′N 3°06′E / 52.550°N 3.100°E) and was severely damaged. Two crew were killed. She was taken in to Sheerness, Kent where she was declared a constructive total loss.[5][69] |
7 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| USS Hovey | United States Navy | World War II: The destroyer-minesweeper, a former Clemson-class destroyer, was torpedoed and sunk in Lingayen Gulf (16°20′N 120°10′E / 16.333°N 120.167°E) by Japanese aircraft with the loss of 24 of her 167 crew and 24 of the survivors from USS Brooks and USS Long (both United States Navy). |
| Mount Orthrys |  Greece | The cargo ship collided with Errina ( Netherlands) in the River Thames and caught fire. She was beached on the Mucking Flats and broke in two. Three crewmen were killed. She was consequently scrapped.[70][71][72] |
| Nichiei Maru No. 2 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The guard ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Inland Sea of Japan (31°20′N 123°40′E / 31.333°N 123.667°E) by USS Spot ( United States Navy).[73] |
| USS Palmer | United States Navy | World War II: The destroyer-minesweeper, a former Wickes-class destroyer, was bombed and sunk in Lingayen Gulf (16°12′N 120°11′E / 16.200°N 120.183°E) by Japanese aircraft with the loss of 28 of her 122 crew. Survivors were rescued by USS West Virginia ( United States Navy). |
| Shinsei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy SAMA-14: The Shingo Maru-class auxiliary stores ship (4,733 GRT 1917), requisitioned by the Imperial Japanese Navy from Japan Marine Fisheries, was bombed and damaged in the Formosa Strait (22°40′N 118°45′E / 22.667°N 118.750°E) by Consolidated B-24 Liberator aircraft of the United States Fourteenth Air Force. Seven crew were killed. The ship sank the next day. Most on board were transferred to W-21 ( Imperial Japanese Navy) before sinking. Other ships rescued five others.[74][75] |
| Viola | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off Moster, Norway by HNoMS MTB 712 ( Royal Norwegian Navy). The whole crew was saved.[76][77][78] |
8 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Anyo Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy MOTA-30: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean (24°50′N 120°35′E / 24.833°N 120.583°E) by USS Barb ( United States Navy) with the loss of 138 crewmen and many troops.[79][80] |
| Ashbury | United Kingdom | The cargo ship ran aground on the Talmaine Skerries, at the entrance to the Kyle of Tongue (58°32′30″N 4°24′10″W / 58.54167°N 4.40278°W) and sank with the loss of all hands.[81] |
| Daigo Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The Type 1K Standard ore carrier/cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Pacific Ocean south west of Korea (34°37′N 122°12′E / 34.617°N 122.200°E) by USS Balao ( United States Navy). 12 crewmen and 14 gunners were killed. Forty-nine crew members survived the sinking and made away on lifeboats, but 16 died of exposure before reaching the Chinese coast after four days. The survivors were captured by Chinese soldiers but managed to assume control of the junk that was carrying them at the cost of two more killed. However, they were surrounded by waiting Chinese Communist troops and all but one committed suicide rather than surrender.[82][83] |
| Fusa | Norway | World War II: The passenger ship (172 GRT, 1875) was bombed and sunk in Korsfjord, Norway by Royal Air Force aircraft with the loss of seven of the 42 people on board.[84] |
| Hikoshima Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy MOTA-30: The tanker was torpedoed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean by USS Barb ( United States Navy) and ran aground in Tungshiao Bay. She was abandoned apparently without loss.[80][85] |
| Manju Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy MOTA-30: The tanker (a.k.a. Manzyu Maru) was torpedoed and damaged in the Pacific Ocean by USS Queenfish ( United States Navy). She was run aground/beached in Tungshiao Bay (24°47′N 120°32′E / 24.783°N 120.533°E) on 9 January. 13 armed guards, 30 crew and an unknown number of passengers were killed.[80] |
| Sanyo Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy MOTA-30: The tanker was torpedoed, damaged, and ran aground in the Pacific Ocean (24°50′N 120°35′E / 24.833°N 120.583°E) by USS Barb ( United States Navy). She broke in two and sank on 9 January. Twelve guards, two instructors, three watchmen, and 29 crewmen were killed.[80][86] |
| Tatsuyo Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy MOTA-30: The Standard 2AT-class cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Formosa Strait by USS Barb ( United States Navy). The ship exploded, killing all 63 crewmen.[80][87] |
| Trygg | Norway | World War II: The coaster (28 GRT) was bombed and sunk in Korsfjord, Norway by Royal Air Force aircraft with the loss of two crew.[88] |
9 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| CD-3 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Type C escort ship was bombed and sunk north of Keelung, Formosa (27°10′N 121°45′E / 27.167°N 121.750°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. One hundred and seventy-three men were lost.[89] |
| CH-61 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The No.13-class submarine chaser was sunk off southern Formosa (22°40′N 120°04′E / 22.667°N 120.067°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[90] |
| CHa-216 | Imperial Japanese Navy | The CHa-1-class auxiliary submarine chaser was lost in the Formosa area. |
| Claus Rickmers | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was damaged by Allied aircraft off Lervik, Norway and was consequently beached. She was refloated and towed to Bergen. Subsequently seized as a prize of war, repaired and returned to service as Empire Carron under the British flag.[91] |
| Fukuzan Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea (22°37′N 120°15′E / 22.617°N 120.250°E by United States Navy carrier-based aircraft.[92][93][94][95] |
| Hisagawa Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Convoy MOTA-30: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk by United States Navy aircraft. A total of 2,117 troops, 84 gunners, and all 86 crewmen were killed.[80][96] |
| Hokoku Maru No. 9 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk north of Keelung by United States Navy aircraft.[97] |
| Jonas Lie | United States | World War II: Convoy ON 277: The Liberty ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Bristol Channel (51°45′N 5°26′W / 51.750°N 5.433°W) by U-1055 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of two of the 69 people on board. Survivors were rescued by HMT Huddersfield Town ( Royal Navy) and Fosna ( Norway). On 11 January, Jonas Lie was taken in tow by Empire Sprite ( United Kingdom) and HMS Stormking ( Royal Navy) but the tow parted the next day. She sank on 14 January.[98][99] |
| Juko Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The oiler was bombed and sunk at Takao, Formosa by United States Navy aircraft. Later raised.[100] |
| Kaiho Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Standard Wartime Type 2TL tanker was bombed by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and beached off Chinka, Pescadores. A total of 314 troops, six gunners, four watchmen and fourteen crewmen were killed.[101][102] |
| Kuroshio Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The Kuroshio Maru-class auxiliary tanker was bombed and sunk at Takao (22°00′N 120°05′E / 22.000°N 120.083°E) by United States Navy aircraft. Ten crew were killed. Raised post war, repaired and put into Chinese service in 1947 as Yung Hao ( Republic of China).[103] |
| L'Enjoue |  Free French Naval Forces | World War II: Convoy GC 107: The L'Eveille-class escort was torpedoed and sunk in the Mediterranean Sea off Cape Spartel, Morocco by U-870 ( Kriegsmarine) with all its crew (59 or 63 men).[104][105][106] |
| M 3145 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The KSK-2-class naval drifter/minesweeper struck a mine, probably a German one, and sank in the Irben Strait. 9 survivors were rescued by M 3157 ( Kriegsmarine). There were at least two dead, the master and the flotilla commander.[5][40] |
| Nanshin Maru No. 4 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off northwest Luzon by United States Navy aircraft.[107] |
| Nikolaifleet | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk off the coast of Norway by HNoMS MTB 711 and HNoMS MTB 623 (both Royal Norwegian Navy) with the loss of 29 lives.[108] |
| Shinko Maru No. 1 Go | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Kiri Maru No. 8-class auxiliary transport was torpedoed and sunk in the Java Sea off Banten Bay Tandjung Pating Borneo (03°41′S 111°57′E / 3.683°S 111.950°E) by HNLMS O 19 ( Royal Netherlands Navy).[109][110] |
| Sirius | Norway | World War II: The coaster (938 GRT, 1941) was bombed and sunk at Bjordal, Norway by aircraft of 144, 455 and 489 Squadrons, Royal Air Force. The crew was on shore and there were no casualties. She was raised in summer 1945, repaired and returned to service in January 1947.[111][112][113] |
| U-679 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type VIIC submarine was sunk in the Baltic Sea by mines with the loss of all 51 crew. Wreck located confirming mines.[114][115] |
| Ume Maru No. 21 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk off Keelung by United States Navy aircraft.[116] |
10 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Arax | Soviet Navy | World War II: The Angara-class gunboat was sunk by a magnetic mine at Odessa. 64 crew and 29 other people were killed. She was later raised and broken up.[117] |
| Blackheath | United Kingdom | World War II: The cargo ship (4,637 GRT, 1936) was torpedoed and damaged in the Mediterranean Sea off Cape Spartel, Morocco (35°49′N 6°03′W / 35.817°N 6.050°W) by U-870 ( Kriegsmarine and was beached. All 51 crew were rescued by HMS Ballinderry and HMS Kilbernie (both Royal Navy). Blackheath broke her back on 14 January and was declared a total loss.[118][119] |
| CD-42 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Type D escort ship was torpedoed and sunk in the East China Sea west of Kume Island Okinawa.(27°01′N 126°34′E / 27.017°N 126.567°E) by USS Puffer ( United States Navy). She was lost with all 170 crew.[120][121] |
| USS LCI(G)-365 | United States Navy | World War II: Operation Mike I: The landing craft infantry (gunboat) was sunk by Imperial Japanese Army Shin'yō-class suicide motorboats in Lingayen Gulf. The whole crew was rescued.[5][122] |
| USS LCI(M)-974 | United States Navy | World War II: Operation Mike I: The landing craft infantry (mortar) was sunk by Imperial Japanese Army Shin'yō-class suicide motorboats in Lingayen Gulf (16°06′N 120°14′E / 16.100°N 120.233°E). There were 6 missing crew and 19 survivors.[123][124][125][126] |
| USS LST-925 | United States Navy | World War II: The landing ship tank was damaged by Imperial Japanese Army Shin'yō-class suicide motorboats in Lingayen Gulf and beached on "Orange Beach" (16°06′N 120°14′E / 16.100°N 120.233°E) to avoid sinking. Repaired and returned to service.[8][127][128] |
| USS LST-1028 | United States Navy | World War II: The landing ship tank was damaged by Imperial Japanese Army Shin'yō-class suicide motorboats in Lingayen Gulf and beached on "Orange Beach" (16°06′N 120°14′E / 16.100°N 120.233°E) to avoid sinking. There were 14 wounded. Repaired and returned to service.[8][129] |
| M 322 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The minesweeper was damaged at Haram, Norway by a strike force of 26 Bristol Beaufighter aircraft of 144 Sqn RAF, 404 Sqn, RCAF, 455 Sq, RAAF and 489 Sqn, RNZAF. Two crew were killed and 17 wounded. She was beached but was later salvaged, repaired and returned to service.[5][130] |
| M 5610 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The KSK-2-class naval drifter/minesweeper was sunk at Haram, Norway by a strike force of 26 Bristol Beaufighter aircraft of 144 Sqn RAF, 404 Sqn, RCAF, 455 Sq, RAAF and 489 Sqn, RNZAF. There were 16 killed and one survivor.[5][130] |
| S 33, S 58 and S 60 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The three motor torpedo boats ran aground on Unije, Yugoslavia. Several attempts to tow them failed until on 16 January by Royal Navy MGBs and MTBs attacked them. S 33 was destroyed and the other two vessels were damaged and later scuttled. All crew survived, three of them wounded.[5][131] |
| 70 Maru-Ni suicide motorboats | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The Maru-Ni suicide boats were sunk/destroyed during an attack on US ships in Lingayen Gulf.[132] |
11 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Banshu Maru No. 56 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The auxiliary minesweeper was sunk in the south entrance to Manila Bay as a blockship.[133] |
| USS Belknap | United States Navy | World War II: Operation Mike I: The Clemson-class destroyer was severely damaged by a kamikaze attack in Lingayen Gulf with the loss of 38 of her crew. She was consequently withdrawn from service.[5] |
| Hakuyo Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The auxiliary submarine chaser was sunk in the south entrance to Manila Bay as a blockship.[134] |
| Normandy Coast | United Kingdom | World War II: The cargo ship (1,428 GRT, 1916) was torpedoed and sunk in the Irish Sea west of Anglesey (53°19′N 4°48′W / 53.317°N 4.800°W) by U-1055 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of nineteen of her 27 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS PC-74 ( Royal Navy).[135] |
| Pasajes | Germany | The cargo ship ran aground and sank in the Skagerrak (58°05′N 8°15′E / 58.083°N 8.250°E). Refloated and placed under repair. Seized by the British in May 1945, entered service as Empire Rhondda.[136][137] |
| Roanoke | United States | World War II: The cargo ship was torpedoed and sunk in the Irish Sea west of Anglesey (53°19′N 4°48′W / 53.317°N 4.800°W) by U-1055 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of four of her 63 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMS PC-74 ( Royal Navy) and Senga ( Yugoslavia).[138] |
| Sperrbrecher 1 Bahia Camarones | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The sperrbrecher was shelled and damaged by HMS Bellona, HMS Norfolk, HMS Onslaught, HMS Onslow and HMS Orwell (all Royal Navy). She was beached the next day near Egersund, Norway (58°22′08″N 6°02′08″E / 58.36889°N 6.03556°E). The wreck was subsequently broken up.[38] |
| T-33 Korall or T-76 Korall | Soviet Navy | World War II: The Virsaytis-class minesweeper was torpedoed and sunk in the Bay of Tallinn off Aegna, Estonia (59°45′N 24°47′E / 59.750°N 24.783°E) by U-745 ( Kriegsmarine). There were 28 killed and 27 wounded.[139][140] |
| Wa-10 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The No.1-class auxiliary minesweeper was sunk in the South China Sea west of Vigan Luzon Philippines (17°20′N 120°00′E / 17.333°N 120.000°E) by a United States Navy destroyer.[141] |
| USS YMS-14 | United States Navy | The YMS-1-class minesweeper was sunk in Boston Harbor in a collision with USS Herndon ( United States Navy). The whole crew was saved.[142][143] |
12 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Akashi Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea 50 nautical miles (93 km) south east of Cape St. Jacques, French Indochina (10°20′N 107°45′E / 10.333°N 107.750°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 operating in the area as part of the South China Sea raid. A total of 64 troops, 21 gunners, and 21 crewmen were killed.[144][145] |
| Ayanami Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea off French Indochina (10°46′N 106°42′E / 10.767°N 106.700°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 16 crewmen and 2 gunners were killed.[11][146][147] |
| Ayayuki Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | ,_near_Juinhon,_French_Indochina,_12_January_1945.jpg) |
| Bahia Camarones | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was shelled and sunk off Egersund, Norway by HMS Bellona, HMS Norfolk, HMS Onslaught, HMS Onslow and HMS Orwell (all Royal Navy). 25 crewmen, 33 Flak gunners and a Norwegian pilot were killed.[5][151] |
| Banshu Maru No. 63 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The cargo ship was damaged in the South China Sea off Qui Nhon, French Indochina (14°15′N 109°10′E / 14.250°N 109.167°E by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and was consequently beached. Eight crewmen were killed. She was declared a total loss.[11][152] |
| CD-17 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Type C escort ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (10°20′N 107°50′E / 10.333°N 107.833°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. All 159 crewmen were lost.[5][153] |
| CD-19 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Type C escort ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (10°20′N 107°50′E / 10.333°N 107.833°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[5][154] |
| CD-23 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Type C escort ship was sunk in the South China Sea north of Qui Nhon (14°15′N 109°10′E / 14.250°N 109.167°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. One hundred and fifty-five crewmen were lost.[155] |
| CD-35 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The Type C escort ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (11°10′N 108°55′E / 11.167°N 108.917°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Sixty-nine crewmen were lost.[156] |
| CD-43 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The Type C escort ship was bombed in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and was beached on an uninhabited island (11°10′N 108°55′E / 11.167°N 108.917°E). She was scuttled by her crew. Twenty-nine crewmen were lost.[157] |
| CD-51 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Type C escort ship was sunk in the South China Sea north of Qui Nhon (14°15′N 109°10′E / 14.250°N 109.167°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. One hundred and fifty-nine crewmen were lost.[158] |
| CH-31 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The No.13-class submarine chaser was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape Padaran (11°10′N 108°55′E / 11.167°N 108.917°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[159] |
| CH-43 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The No.13-class submarine chaser was sunk in Cam Rahn Bay, French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[160] |
| Chiburi | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Mikura-class frigate was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (10°20′N 107°50′E / 10.333°N 107.833°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 88 crewmen were lost.[5][161] |
| Charlotte | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was shelled and sunk in the North Sea off Egersund, Norway by HMS Bellona, HMS Norfolk, HMS Onslaught, HMS Onslow and HMS Orwell (all Royal Navy). She was abandoned by her crew.[5][162] |
| Eiho Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea south east of Cape St. Jacques (11°10′N 108°55′E / 11.167°N 108.917°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[163][164] |
| Eiman Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 with a loss of nineteen crew and thirteen naval gunners.[165][166] |
| France Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SASHI-30: The Daifuku Maru No. 1-class troopship was bombed and damaged by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and beached in the Mekong Delta 50 nautical miles (93 km; 58 mi) south east of Gocong, French Indochina (09°35′N 106°48′E / 9.583°N 106.800°E). She was declared a total loss. Five passengers and 38 crew were lost.[167] |
| Hoei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea south east of Cape St. Jacques (12°50′N 109°23′E / 12.833°N 109.383°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 22 crewmen were killed.[11][168] |
| Horai Maru No. 9 | Japan | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SASHI-05: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea off French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Six gunners and eleven crewmen were killed.[169] |
| Ikutagawa Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The auxiliary transport ship was sunk in the South China Sea 50 nautical miles (93 km; 58 mi) south east of Cape St. Jacques, French Indochina (10°20′N 107°50′E / 10.333°N 107.833°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[170] |
| Ilona Siemers | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk at Bergen, Norway by Avro Lancaster aircraft of 9 and 617 Squadrons, Royal Air Force using Tallboy bombs.[5] |
| Kashii | Imperial Japanese Navy | .jpg) |
| Keishu Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The auxiliary transport/tug (671 GRT 1921) was bombed 15 nautical miles (28 km; 17 mi) off Cape St. Jacques, French Indochina by United States Navy carrier aircraft and was beached.[172] |
| Kembu Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The passenger/cargo ship (a.k.a. Tatebe Maru) was bombed near Binh Dinh, French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and either sank or was beached as a total loss.[173][174] |
| Kenei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The cargo ship was sunk at Saigon by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[175] |
| Kensei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea south east of Cape St. Jacques (11°10′N 108°35′E / 11.167°N 108.583°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[176][177][178] |
| Kiyo Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea off French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[179] |
| Kong Oscar II | Germany | The cargo ship (914 GRT, 1904) ran aground in a storm at Sandnessjøen, Norway. She sank the next day. The wreck was scrapped during the winter of 1954–55.[180] |
| Koshin Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea south east Cape St. Jacques by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Forty-four crewmen, 15 gunners and 24 passengers were killed.[11][181][182] |
| Kumagawa Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The oiler (a.k.a. Shumagawa Maru and Tamagawa Maru) was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (10°20′N 107°50′E / 10.333°N 107.833°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Ninety-eight passengers and seven crewmen were killed.[183] |
| Kyoei Maru No. 7 | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SASHI-30: The transport was bombed and sunk in the Mekong Delta 50 nautical miles (93 km; 58 mi) south east of Gocong (09°35′N 106°48′E / 9.583°N 106.800°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 with the loss of all 25 hands.[184] |
| Kyokuun Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The cargo ship was bombed in the South China Sea by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and was beached north of Qui Nhon. She was declared a total loss.[185][186] |
| USS LCI(L)-600 | United States Navy | World War II: The landing craft infantry (large) was sunk at Ulithi, Caroline Islands by a Kaiten submarine/human torpedo ( Imperial Japanese Navy). Three crewmen were killed.[187][188] |
| La Motte-Picquet |  Vichy French Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The training hulk, a former Duguay-Trouin-class cruiser, was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Cat Lai, French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. One crewman was killed and around 70 were wounded.[189][190] |
| Louhi |  Finnish Navy | World War II: Lapland War: The Louhi-class minelayer was torpedoed and sunk in the Gulf of Finland off Hanko (59°40′N 23°05′E / 59.667°N 23.083°E) by U-370 ( Kriegsmarine), or sunk by mines, with the loss of ten of her 41 crew.[191] |
| M-1 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The M 1935-class minesweeper was sunk at Bergen in an air raid by Avro Lancaster aircraft of 9 and 617 Squadrons, Royal Air Force using Tallboy bombs. Twenty of the ship's crew were killed in the sinking.[5][192][193] |
| M-273 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type 1940 minesweeper was shelled and sunk off Egersund by HMS Bellona, HMS Norfolk, HMS Onslaught, HMS Onslow and HMS Orwell (all Royal Navy).[5][194] |
| Nanryo Maru No. 2 | Japan | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SASHI-05: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea off French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Two gunners and six crewmen were killed.[195] |
| Octant | Vichy French Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The survey ship was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea off Cat Lai by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[196] |
| Otowa Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The auxiliary minesweeper was sunk in Cam Rahn Bay (11°50′N 109°00′E / 11.833°N 109.000°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. One crew was killed.[11][197] |
| Otsusan Maru | Japan | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Standard Type 2AT tanker (a.k.a. Otsuyama Maru and Otusan Maru) was bombed in the South China Sea by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and was beached north of Qui Nhon. She was declared a total loss. Twenty-eight crewmen and seven gunners were killed.[11][198][199] |
| Otto Petersen |  Denmark | World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine in the Skaggerak off Skelvik, Norway and was beached to avoid sinking. One crew was killed by the explosion. She was declared total loss but was later repaired and returned to service.[200][201][202] |
| PB-103 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The patrol boat, a former Lapwing-class minesweeper, was strafed in the South China Sea off Cape Padaran (11°10′N 108°55′E / 11.167°N 108.917°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38, setting off her depth charges sinking her in shallow water with her bridge above water. 23 crew were killed and 52 wounded.[150] |
| HMS Regulus | Royal Navy | World War II: The Algerine-class minesweeper (1,030/1,325 t, 1944) was mined and sunk in the Aegean Sea off Corfu, Greece. One crew was killed and several were wounded.[203][204] |
| San Luis Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The tanker was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea 25 nautical miles (46 km; 29 mi) north east of Binh Dinh, French Indochina (14°20′N 109°09′E / 14.333°N 109.150°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Nine gunners and three crewmen were killed.[205] |
| Shingi Maru | Japan | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SASHI-30: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (09°24′N 106°44′E / 9.400°N 106.733°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 790 troops and 38 crewmen were killed.[206] |
| Shinsei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SASHI-30: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (09°24′N 106°44′E / 9.400°N 106.733°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 64 Army passengers, 8 escort troops and 22 crewmen were killed.[167] |
| Shinsei Maru No. 17 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The cargo ship was sunk at Saigon, French Indochina by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 30 crewmen were killed.[11][207] |
| Shoei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The tanker was bombed and sunk in the South China Sea north of Qui Nhon (14°14′N 109°10′E / 14.233°N 109.167°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Seven crewmen and three gunners were killed.[208][209] |
| USS Swordfish | United States Navy | World War II: The Sargo-class submarine was either depth charged or struck a mine and sank off Okinawa Island, Japan with the loss of all 89 crew.[210] |
| T-140 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The No.103-class landing ship was sunk at Saigon by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[4][211] |
| Taikyu Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 17 crew and 198 passengers were killed.[11][212] |
| Tai Poo Sek | Vichy France | World War II: Operation Gratitude: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Mekong River, French Indochina, by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[213] |
| Tatsubato Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The Type 1K Standard Merchant ore carrier was bombed and damaged in the South China Sea north of Qui Nhon by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38 and beached, a total loss. Ten crewmen were killed.[11][214][215] |
| Toyu Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The troopship was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape St. Jacques (10°20′N 107°45′E / 10.333°N 107.750°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. A soldier, 28 other passengers, and 23 crewmen were killed.[183][216] |
| Treern |  South African Navy | World War II: The auxiliary minesweeper (247 GRT, 1929) struck a mine and sank in the Aegean Sea off eastern Greece (39°06′N 23°14′E / 39.100°N 23.233°E) with the loss of 23 of her 24 crew. The survivor was rescued by HMS Musketeer ( Royal Navy).[217] |
| W-101 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy SATA-05: The Bangor-class minesweeper was sunk in the South China Sea off Cape Padaran (11°10′N 108°55′E / 11.167°N 108.917°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[218] |
| Yoshu Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The cargo ship (a.k.a. Yujo Maru and Yushu Maru) was sunk in the South China Sea north of Qui Nhon by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. Five gunners and 45 crewmen were killed.[219][166] |
| Yusei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: Operation Gratitude: Convoy HI-86: The cargo ship was damaged in the South China Sea off Qui Nhon (14°15′N 109°10′E / 14.250°N 109.167°E) by United States Navy aircraft. She was beached but was declared a total loss.[220] |
13 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beltana |  Sweden | World War II: The fishing boat was sunk by a mine southwest of Pater Noster Lighthouse with the loss of 5 lives. The only survivor was saved by another Swedish fishing boat.[221][222][223] |
| I-362 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Type D submarine was sunk between Ulithi and Eniwetok (12°08′N 154°27′E / 12.133°N 154.450°E) by USS Fleming ( United States Navy) with all hands.[224] |
| USS P-584 | United States Navy | The ex-United States Army Air Force crash rescue boat, with a United States Navy crew, but under operational control of the Office of Strategic Services was destroyed by an explosion at Livorno, Italy with eleven crewmen wounded.[8] |
| SS-1 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The SS-class landing ship was sunk off Luzon by United States aircraft. |
| Vs 130 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The KSK-2-class naval drifter/minesweeper was heavily damaged by a mine in the Flensburg Fjord and sank while being towed to the port.[40] |
| Vaga | Norway | World War II: The cargo ship (1,615 GRT, 1924) was bombed and sunk in the North Sea off Homborsund, Norway by Handley Page Halifax aircraft of 58 Squadron, Royal Air Force with the loss of seven lives.[5][225] |
| USS YC-912 | United States Navy | The open lighter foundered in heavy weather in the North Pacific.[8] |
14 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Athelviking | United Kingdom | World War II: Convoy BX 141: The tanker (8,779 GRT, 1926) was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean east of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (44°28′N 63°28′W / 44.467°N 63.467°W) by U-1232 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of four of her 41 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMCML-102 ( Royal Canadian Navy).[226] |
| British Freedom | United Kingdom | World War II: Convoy BX 141: The tanker (6,985 GRT, 1928) was torpedoed and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean east of Halifax, Nova Scotia (44°28′N 63°28′W / 44.467°N 63.467°W) by U-1232 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of one of her 57 crew. Survivors were rescued by HMCS Gaspé ( Royal Canadian Navy).[227] |
| Ely | United Kingdom | The trawler (183 GRT, 1903) sank 50 miles (80 km) northeast of the Bishops Rock Lighthouse, after a collision with HMCS Trillium ( Royal Canadian Navy) with the loss of six crewmen. There were three survivors.[228][229] |
| Martin van Buren | United States | World War II: The Liberty ship was torpedoed and damaged in the Atlantic Ocean (44°28′N 63°28′W / 44.467°N 63.467°W) by U-1232 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of three gunners. Survivors abandoned ship and were rescued by HMCS Comox and HMCS Fundy (both Royal Canadian Navy). Martin van Buren was taken in tow by a tug, but the tow line was cut by a naval vessel which ignored signals being flown by the tug. She drifted ashore at Sambro, Nova Scotia and broke in two. She was declared a constructive total loss. The wreck was scrapped in situ in 1950.[230][231] |
| Mimi Horn II | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was bombed and sunk in the Baltic Sea off Brüsterort, Pomerania by Soviet Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft of 51 MTAP. Four crewmen were killed.[5][232][233] |
| USS PT-73 | United States Navy | World War II: The Higgins 78'-class PT boat was grounded in Balakias Bay Mindoro (13°50′N 120°10′E / 13.833°N 120.167°E) and destroyed by her crew due to Japanese troops nearby. The whole crew was saved.[234][235] |
| S 180 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type 1939/40 schnellboot was sunk by a mine in the North Sea off Texel, North Holland, Netherlands. There were 11 dead and 12 survivors.[5][236][237] |
| Yurishima | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Hirashima-class minelayer (a.k.a. Yurijima) was torpedoed and sunk in the South China Sea off Kota Bharu, Malaya (05°45′N 113°13′E / 5.750°N 113.217°E) by USS Cobia ( United States Navy).[238][239] |
15 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dalemoor | United Kingdom | World War II: The cargo ship (5,835 GRT, 1922) struck a naval mine and sank in the North Sea off Cromer, Norfolk (53°23′00″N 0°47′24″E / 53.38333°N 0.79000°E). Her 56 crew survived.[5][240] |
| Doggerbank | Germany | World War II: The fishing vessel was sunk by striking a mine, or by Soviet Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft, in the Baltic Sea off Danzig.[5][241] |
| Enoshima Maru | Imperial Japanese Army | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea off Takao, Formosa (22°37′N 122°15′E / 22.617°N 122.250°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[242] |
| Ferdinand | Germany | World War II: The fishing vessel was sunk by striking a mine, or by Soviet Douglas A-20 Havoc aircraft, in the Baltic Sea off Danzig.[5][241] |
| Harima Maru | Japan | World War II: The tanker was sunk in the South China Sea off Yulin, Hainan, China by United States Navy aircraft.[243] |
| Hatakaze | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Kamikaze-class destroyer was sunk in the South China Sea off Hisashiyama (22°37′N 122°15′E / 22.617°N 122.250°E) by United States Navy aircraft.[244] |
| Horei Maru | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in the South China Sea south of Formosa by American aircraft.[5] |
| Kujyo Maru No. 5 | Japan | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk off Paramushiro Island, Kuril Islands by aircraft.[245] |
| Kyo Maru No. 1 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The auxiliary minesweeper was sunk in the Malacca Strait northwest of Penang, Malaya (05°18′N 100°20′E / 5.300°N 100.333°E) by a mine.[246] |
| Magdala | Netherlands | The cargo ship departed from Reykjavík, Iceland for a British port. No further trace, presumed foundered with the loss of all hands.[247] |
| Maja | United Kingdom | World War II: The tanker (8,181 GRT, 1931) was torpedoed and sunk in the Irish Sea south east of Drogheda, County Louth, Ireland (53°40′N 5°14′W / 53.667°N 5.233°W) by U-1055 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of 25 of her 65 crew. Survivors were rescued by the trawler Hendrik Conscience ( Belgium).[248] |
| Miri Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The 1TL-class fleet tanker was sunk off Takao (22°37′N 122°15′E / 22.617°N 122.250°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38. 10 crew members and 17 naval gunners were killed.[5][249] |
| T-14 | Imperial Japanese Navy |  |
| Tatsuno Maru | Japan | World War II: Convoy No. 882: The cargo ship was torpedoed by USS Thresher ( United States Navy), exploded and broke in two. The ship's fore part sank immediately in the Luzon Strait, about 75 miles (121 km) north of Luzon, Philippines. The stern section sank the next day at 20°05′N 120°13′E / 20.083°N 120.217°E. 8 passengers and 12 crew were killed.[252] |
| HMS Thane | Royal Navy | World War II: The Bogue-class escort carrier (11,420/15,390 t, 1943) was torpedoed and damaged in the Firth of Clyde by U-1172 ( Kriegsmarine) with the loss of ten crew. She was towed to Greenock, Renfrewshire by HMS Loring but was declared a constructive total loss. Scrapped in 1946.[253] |
| Tsuga | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II, South China Sea raid: The Momi-class destroyer was sunk in the South China Sea off Mako, Formosa (23°33′N 119°33′E / 23.550°N 119.550°E) by United States Navy aircraft from Task Force 38.[254] |
| V 5304 | Germany | World War II: The vorpostenboot was sunk at Lervik, Norway by de Havilland Mosquito aircraft of Royal Air Force Banff Strike Wing. One crew was killed and 12 wounded.[5][255] |
| USS YP-73 | United States Navy | The yard patrol craft ran aground and sank 1,000 yards (910 m) east of the Spruce Cape signal station, Kodiak, Alaska. Although six crew members were rescued by USCGC Bittersweet ( United States Navy), ten crewmen died from exposure due to the extreme cold.[8] |
16 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Anri No. 2 GO | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk at Hong Kong by United States Navy carrier-based aircraft.[256] |
| Dejatelnyj | Soviet Navy | World War II: Convoy KB 1: The Clemson-class destroyer was sunk in the Kara Sea 40 nautical miles (74 km) east of Cape Terebirski (69°04′N 36°10′E / 69.067°N 36.167°E), either by being torpedoed by U-956 ( Kriegsmarine), or by accidental explosion of her depth charges while attacking the submarine, with the loss of 117 of her 124 crew. The seven survivors reported a massive explosion at the ship's stern. Survivors were rescued by Derzkiy ( Soviet Navy).[257][5][258] |
| Donau | Germany | World War II: The troopship was sunk in Oslofjord, Norway, by ten limpet mines that had been placed by Norwegian saboteurs. There was no casualty. The wreck was raised in 1952 and towed to Bremerhaven, West Germany for scrapping.[40] |
| Hakurei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The Hokkai Maru-class naval trawler/auxiliary storeship was sunk by a mine 4.9 nautical miles (9.1 km; 5.6 mi) off Cape Lojar, Laut Island, Netherlands East Indies (04°10′S 116°05′E / 4.167°S 116.083°E).[259] |
| James Harrod | United States | The Liberty ship collided with Raymond B. Stevens ( United States) in the North Sea off Deal, Kent. She was beached in Pegwell Bay but broke in two and was declared a constructive total loss.[260] |
| USS LSM-318 | United States Navy | World War II: Operation Mike I: The landing ship medium was sunk in Lingayen Gulf by a kamikaze attack.[5] |
| HMS LST-415 | Royal Navy | World War II: The landing ship tank, Mk.2 (1,625/4,080 t, 1943) was torpedoed and damaged off the Tongue Lightship ( United Kingdom) by a Kriegsmarine Schnellboot and was beached. She was subsequently scrapped.[261] |
| Marina | United States | World War II: Convoy CU 53: The cargo ship struck a mine off Le Havre, Seine-Inférieure, France and was beached. All 101 people on board survived. She was later refloated and towed to the United States, but was declared a constructive total loss and scrapped.[262] |
| Matsushima Maru | Japan | World War II: The Type 2TL Wartime Standard tanker was bombed and damaged at Hong Kong by United States Navy carrier-based aircraft. A guard, eight troops and three crewmen were killed. She was beached the next day on Koshima Island, Hong Kong and abandoned. Scrapped in 1947.[263] |
| Sanka Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The oiler was sunk at Hong Kong by United States Navy carrier-based aircraft. Twenty-one crewmen were killed.[256] |
| SF 303 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Siebel ferry was bombed and strafed by fighter-bomber aircraft in Jablanac bay, Croatia, and burned. There were no casualties.[264] |
| Tenei Maru | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The oiler was sunk at Hong Kong by United States Navy carrier-based aircraft. A passenger, two troops and three crewmen were killed.[256] |
| U-248 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type VII submarine was depth charged and sunk in the Atlantic Ocean by USS Hayter, USS Hubbard, USS Otter and USS Varian (all United States Navy) with the loss of all 47 crew.[265][266][267][268] |
| V 6408 Skagerak | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Tirol-class naval whaler/Vorpostenboot was torpedoed and sunk off Folda, Norway by HNoMS Utsira ( Royal Norwegian Navy) with all 50 crew.[40][269][270] |
17 January[edit]
| Ship | State | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Aar | Germany | World War II: The coaster was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Ammon | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Christian Russ | Germany | World War II: The coaster was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Emma Sauber | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] She was refloated in 1949, repaired and entered West German service.[271] |
| F 1 | Kriegsmarine | The Siebel ferry was lost on this date. |
| Griep | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The salvage ship was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Henriette Schulte | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in a Soviet air raid on Memel, East Prussia.[5] |
| Hiev | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The salvage ship was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Johanna | Germany | World War II: The coaster was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| M 305 | Kriegsmarine | The minesweeper foundered in the Baltic Sea off Brüsterort, Pomerania due to storm and icing with the loss of 40 lives.[272][273] |
| Mangan | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Martha Peters | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| Odysseus | Greece | The cargo ship (4,577 GRT, 1913) ran aground at Morris Point, near Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (44°28′N 63°33′W / 44.467°N 63.550°W) and sank. There were no casualties.[274] |
| Steinburg | Germany | World War II: The cargo ship struck a mine and was beached near Libau, Latvia.[275] |
| T-15 | Imperial Japanese Navy | World War II: The No.1-class landing ship was torpedoed and sunk in the East China Sea in the Makurazaki Bight off Kyushu (31°08′N 130°28′E / 31.133°N 130.467°E) by USS Tautog ( United States Navy). 225 men were killed.[276][277] |
| U-2515 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type XXI submarine was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5][278] |
| U-2523 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type XXI submarine was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5][279] |
| U-2530 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type XXI submarine was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] d.[280] |
| U-2532 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type XXI submarine was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| U-2537 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The Type XXI submarine was sunk in an American air raid on Hamburg.[5] |
| V 1417 Stoomloodsvartuig 17 | Kriegsmarine | World War II: The V |