Footage has emerged of a submersible exploring a historic wartime shipwreck, believed to be the deepest in the world.
The USS Johnston was commissioned on October 27, 1943. As per Naval History and Heritage Command, Commander Ernest. E. Evans said of the boat: ‘This is going to be a fighting ship. I intend to go in harm’s way, and anyone who doesn’t want to go along had better get off right now.’
Into harm’s way it did. In the Battle of Samar in World War II, the outnumbered, 115m-long ship fought against Japanese forces, before eventually sinking. It’s been 77 years, and a crew of aquatic explorers have now found the wreckage.
Victor Vescovo, who also piloted the sub, led the expedition alongside engineer Shane Eigler and naval historian Parks Stephenson. The USS Johnston lies four miles (6.2km) beneath the surface in the Philippine Sea in the Pacific Ocean.
After making the incredible discovery, a number of dives were conducted to properly record and survey the ship. The team also laid wreaths before and after any dives, to pay respect to those who lost their lives in the battle.
