USS Amberjack (SS-219)

The USS Amberjack (SS-219) was a Gato-class submarine of the United States Navy, commissioned on June 19, 1942. She was named for the amberjack, a species of saltwater fish. During World War II, Amberjack conducted six war patrols in the Pacific Theater, primarily targeting Japanese shipping. Her patrol areas included the waters around Truk, New Britain, and the Solomon Islands.

Amberjack is credited with sinking several Japanese vessels, contributing to the Allied war effort by disrupting enemy supply lines and troop movements.

On her sixth war patrol, in February 1943, Amberjack was operating in the area north of New Ireland. On February 16, 1943, after attacking a convoy and being damaged by depth charges, she was forced to surface. Engaging in a surface gun battle with Japanese destroyers, Amberjack was heavily damaged and ultimately sunk. All 65 officers and men aboard were lost.

The Amberjack received five battle stars for her service in World War II and is remembered as a valiant vessel that played a significant role in the submarine warfare campaign against Japan. Her loss was a heavy blow to the US Navy, and her story is a testament to the courage and sacrifice of the submariners who served during the war.