Over A Dozen Unexploded Bombs Discovered In 1942 Wrecks Of US Navy Ships Off Canada

According to a report by the Royal Canadian Navy on Thursday, divers have made a chilling discovery in the wrecks of two US Navy ships off the coast of Canada.

The wrecks in question are the USS Pollux and USS Truxtun, which tragically ran aground during a severe storm off St. Lawrence Harbor, Newfoundland, on February 18, 1942. The incident resulted in the loss of over 200 lives, while approximately 180 individuals managed to reach safety on land, as documented in US Navy records.

During a recent survey of the submerged debris from the wrecks, conducted by divers from the Maritime Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Port Inspection units, over a dozen bombs and numerous artillery projectiles were found, revealing that these shipwrecks now lie beneath the waters off Newfoundland’s coast, laden with Second World War ordnance.

However, the passage of time and exposure to saltwater have significantly affected the discovered weapons. As a result, the bombs and projectiles have become fragmented and weather-beaten due to erosion, raising concerns about potential dangers they may pose.

The Royal Canadian Navy is conducting a thorough investigation to evaluate the presence and potential risk of explosive materials in the wrecks. Their primary focus is ensuring the public’s safety, and they leave no stone unturned in their mission to mitigate any hazards associated with submerged ordnance.

Furthermore, the Navy emphasizes its commitment to learning from historical experiences to ensure present and future security.

The discovery also highlights fatalities and injuries related to unexploded ordnance and health impacts associated with chemical warfare agents due to exposure. Such occurrences warrant caution and vigilance in handling and dealing with potentially dangerous materials.

It is worth noting that until 1970, the disposal of munitions at sea was a common practice. However, recognizing its potential risks and adverse effects on the environment and human health, the Department of Defense prohibited this practice, and in 1972, Congress enacted the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act, further prohibiting the disposal of munitions and pollutants in the ocean.

This week, the Department of Transportation has issued a warning, urging people to avoid interacting with certain shipwrecks in US waters, highlighting the importance of public awareness and safety when dealing with potentially hazardous remnants of the past.

As the Royal Canadian Navy continues its investigation, the global community is reminded of the significance of responsible handling and disposal of munitions from the past to protect both our environment and the well-being of current and future generations.

Reference: CBS, Sputnik Globe, Sarkari All Exams

Over A Dozen Unexploded Bombs Discovered In 1942 Wrecks Of US Navy Ships Off Canada appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide

Source: Maritime Shipping News