Consistent Patrol
A series of excursions by the Grayback, which sailed from Pearl Harbor to act as a deterrent, including voyages through the waters near Alaska and along the coast of Japan. And, from 1943 until 1963, the submarine was almost always on patrol, spending the most of its time below the surface of the water, where it was able to see everything. The Grayback’s systems, on the other hand, began to suffer as a result of the rigorous routine after some time.
Consistent Patrol
A Minor Issue
Then, in August 1963, Grayback was forced to face the consequences of her years of duty. At one point during that month, the submarine was trapped in severe waves when she sailed near the surface to replenish her batteries. The sheer force of such powerful waves produced a failure in the main battery, which culminated in a fire engulfing the crew’s sleeping quarters and destroying the ship. It is believed that one submariner perished in the event, while five others were wounded. The Grayback, on the other hand, was back in action after only a couple of weeks in the shop for repairs.
A Minor Issue
