R/V Petrel finds another WWII ship

Apr 19, 2018 by Triton Staff

The research team of yacht owner and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen has found another World War II ship.

According to Allen’s website, the expedition crew of Allen’s R/V Petrel discovered the USS Helena in late March about 860m below the surface, resting on the floor of the New Georgia Sound off the coast of the Solomon Islands.

The ship was sunk by three Japanese torpedoes on July 6, 1943 during the Battle of Kula Gulf. She had 900 crew aboard, but 732 survived, thanks to help from nearby ships, two coast watchers and locals.

“We do these missions as testament to the brave souls who served on these ships,” said Robert Kraft, director of subsea operations for Allen, in a post on Allen’s website. “Each ship has a story that touches families and friends of those who perished or survived. It’s gratifying to hear those stories each time we announce a new discovery.”

Read more about the dramatic rescues here.

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