USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413)

The USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) was a John C. Butler-class destroyer escort of the United States Navy. Commissioned in April 1944, she is primarily known for her extraordinary actions and ultimate loss during the Battle off Samar in October 1944, part of the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf.

During the Battle off Samar, the Samuel B. Roberts, along with other similarly under-gunned and lightly armored destroyer escorts and destroyers, found themselves confronting a much larger and more powerful Japanese fleet, including battleships, cruisers, and destroyers. Despite being heavily outmatched, the crew of the Samuel B. Roberts fought with exceptional bravery and determination, engaging the Japanese fleet to protect escort carriers. The ship inflicted significant damage on the Japanese cruiser Chokai with torpedoes and gunfire before being heavily damaged and eventually sunk.

The actions of the Samuel B. Roberts and her sister ships are credited with helping to disrupt the Japanese attack and ultimately contributing to the Allied victory in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Of her 224-man crew, 89 were killed in action. The ship's crew were awarded numerous decorations for their bravery, and the Samuel B. Roberts' stand became a symbol of courage and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds.

In June 2022, the wreck of the Samuel B. Roberts was discovered at a depth of 6,895 meters (22,621 feet), making it the deepest shipwreck ever located at the time. The discovery confirmed the details of her sinking and provided further insight into the intensity of the battle.