About this Unit
USS *Bugara* (SS-331) was a Balao-class submarine commissioned by the United States Navy in November 1944. She served with distinction during the final months of World War II, conducting three war patrols in the Pacific and famously sinking several Japanese vessels, including a unique surface engagement where she destroyed multiple small ships with gunfire. After the war, *Bugara* participated in peacetime operations, training exercises, and special missions throughout the Cold War, including service during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. She was finally decommissioned in 1970 and tragically lost under tow in 1971 en route to be scrapped.
Historical Facts
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Name Origin: USS Bugara (SS-331) was named after the bugara, a vibrant fish found in the Philippine seas, reflecting the Navy's tradition of naming submarines after marine creatures during World War II.
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Class: Bugara was a Balao-class submarine, a class known for their improved diving depth and war patrol endurance compared to earlier models.
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Commissioning: She was commissioned on 15 November 1944, towards the end of World War II, and was skippered by Lieutenant Commander Aaron C. Reese.
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Unique WWII Patrol: On her third war patrol in July 1945, Bugara engaged in one of the war’s most unusual submarine missions, surfacing in the Gulf of Siam to capture and sink 57 small Japanese vessels with gunfire, sometimes even taking prisoners and supplies.
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End of WWII: Bugara was en route to the United States when Japan surrendered, marking the end of her combat contributions in the Pacific Theater.
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Korean War Service: After World War II, Bugara served in the Korean War, conducting patrols and training exercises as part of the U.S. Seventh Fleet.
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Fleet Snorkel Conversion: In 1951, Bugara underwent a "Fleet Snorkel" conversion, which upgraded her with a snorkel system and a streamlined sail, enhancing her underwater endurance and stealth.
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Hollywood Appearance: Bugara made a brief appearance in the 1959 film "Operation Petticoat," starring Cary Grant and Tony Curtis, showcasing her as one of the Navy’s classic submarines.
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Long Service: Bugara remained active for nearly 25 years, serving as both a frontline and training submarine until her decommissioning in 1970.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, Bugara was being towed to serve as a target when she sank in heavy seas off Cape Flattery, Washington on 1 June 1971, coming to rest in deep water and ending her long and storied career.
