USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413): A Symbol of Courage and Determination
The USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) was a John C. Butler-class destroyer escort that served with distinction in the United States Navy during World War II. Named after Coxswain Samuel Booker Roberts, Jr., a Navy Cross recipient for his bravery during the Battle of Guadalcanal, the ship became renowned for its heroic actions during the Battle off Samar on October 25, 1944.
Construction and Commissioning
The USS Samuel B. Roberts was laid down on December 6, 1943, at the Brown Shipbuilding Company in Houston, Texas. She was launched on January 20, 1944, and commissioned on April 28, 1944, under the command of Lieutenant Commander Robert W. Copeland.
Service History
The USS Samuel B. Roberts began its service with the Pacific Fleet, participating in various operations, including the invasion of Saipan and Tinian. On October 25, 1944, during the Battle off Samar, the ship found itself facing an overwhelming force of Japanese battleships and cruisers. Despite being outgunned and outnumbered, the USS Samuel B. Roberts bravely engaged the enemy, firing its guns and launching torpedoes.
The Battle off Samar
The Battle off Samar was a critical engagement in the Leyte Gulf Campaign, the largest naval battle of World War II. The USS Samuel B. Roberts, along with other escort carriers and destroyers of Task Unit 77.4.3, known as "Taffy 3," faced a superior Japanese force of battleships, cruisers, and destroyers.
Despite the odds, the USS Samuel B. Roberts engaged the enemy with unwavering courage. The ship fired its guns at the Japanese battleship Chokai, damaging its superstructure and forcing it to withdraw. However, the USS Samuel B. Roberts suffered heavy damage from enemy fire, losing its main gun director, radar, and steering control.
As the ship was heavily damaged, Lieutenant Commander Robert Copeland, the ship's captain, made the decision to make a torpedo run against the Japanese battleship Kongō. He famously announced to his crew, "We're making a torpedo run. The outcome is doubtful, but we will do our duty."
Despite the near-certain destruction that awaited them, the USS Samuel B. Roberts pressed on, launching its remaining torpedoes at the Kongō. Although the torpedoes did not hit, the ship's actions forced the Kongō to change course, breaking up the Japanese formation and allowing the escort carriers to escape.
The USS Samuel B. Roberts continued to fight until it was no longer seaworthy. The order to abandon ship was given at 09:35, and the ship sank 30 minutes later. Of the 229 crew members aboard, 90 were killed, and 120 were rescued after spending 50 hours adrift in life rafts.
Awards and Honors
For its extraordinary valor and heroism during the Battle off Samar, the USS Samuel B. Roberts was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, and the Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation. The ship's crew members were also awarded numerous individual decorations, including the Navy Cross and the Silver Star.
Discovery of the Wreckage
In 2022, the wreckage of the USS Samuel B. Roberts was discovered by a team of researchers led by Victor Vescovo. The ship lies at a depth of 6,895 meters (22,621 feet), making it the deepest shipwreck ever identified. The discovery of the USS Samuel B. Roberts serves as a poignant reminder of the ship's heroic actions and the sacrifices made by its crew.
Conclusion
The USS Samuel B. Roberts stands as a symbol of courage, determination, and selflessness. Its actions during the Battle off Samar exemplify the spirit of the United States Navy and continue to inspire generations of sailors. The ship's discovery serves as a tangible link to history, allowing us to honor the legacy of those who served aboard her.