USS sea lion apss315

• USS Sea Lion (APSS-315) Origins: Originally commissioned as USS Sea Lion (SS-315), she was a Balao-class submarine built by the Electric Boat Company and launched on 20 February 1944. • Notable Skipper: Her first commanding officer was Lieutenant Commander Eli T. Reich, who later became a Rear Admiral and was renowned for his aggressive tactics. • Sinking of Japanese Cruiser: On 21 November 1944, Sea Lion made history by sinking the Japanese heavy cruiser ASHIGARA, becoming the only US submarine to sink an enemy cruiser during World War II. • Wolfpack Operations: Sea Lion operated as part of coordinated “wolfpack” attacks with other submarines, a tactic that increased the effectiveness of US submarine operations. • Rescue Missions: During her patrols, Sea Lion rescued several downed American airmen, earning her a reputation for daring and effective search-and-rescue work. • Special Operations Conversion: In the 1950s, Sea Lion was converted to a transport submarine (APSS-315), designed for covertly delivering troops, such as Underwater Demolition Teams (UDT), which were precursors to Navy SEALs. • Korean War Service: During the Korean War, Sea Lion supported amphibious operations, clandestinely deploying reconnaissance and demolition teams behind enemy lines. • Cold War Role: As an APSS, Sea Lion participated in numerous secretive Cold War missions, including intelligence gathering and special forces insertions. • Decorations: USS Sea Lion earned four battle stars for her World War II service and a Navy Unit Commendation, recognizing her extraordinary heroism and effectiveness. • Decommissioning and Legacy: Sea Lion was decommissioned in 1969 and eventually scrapped, but her legacy lives on as one of the most versatile and storied submarines in US Navy history.