The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War

US Submarine Special Operations off WWII-Episode 436

Feb 25, 2025
Dive into the untold stories of U.S. submarine operations in the Pacific during World War II. Discover how submarines not only moved supplies but also supported guerrilla fighters and rescued civilians. Hear about the daring missions of the USS Trout and the dramatic tales surrounding important intelligence retrieval, including the infamous 'gold run.' The podcast also highlights the critical roles played by submarines like the Seawolf and Tambor, unraveling their impact on the war effort in an engaging and entertaining way.
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ANECDOTE

USS Seawolf's First Special Op

  • USS Seawolf executed the first submarine special operation in WWII.
  • Commander Warder earned the nickname "Fearless Freddy" for his bravery and salty language.
ANECDOTE

Trout's Golden Ballast

  • USS Trout needed ballast after unloading ammunition at Corregidor.
  • The ballast used was 20 tons of gold from the Philippine Treasury.
ANECDOTE

The Lost Gold Bar

  • A single gold bar was found in Trout after its return, initially unclaimed.
  • Commander Finno held $23,000 worth of gold for days before Treasury officials retrieved it.
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