Ship Wreck "Shinkoku Maru"

The "Shinkoku Maru" was built in 1939 as a tanker. The Japanese navy converted her into a fleet oiler. The "Shinkoku Maru" participated in the attack on Pear Harbor and Ceylon. She was torpedoed by an U.S. submarine in August 1942 and eventually sunk by dive bombers during 'Operation Hailstone' (17.2.1944 - 18.2.1944) at Truk Lagoon (Chuuk). The Japanese losses were extremely high during this military operation: a complete fleet was destroyed.

The "Shinkoku Maru" today:
It lies currently at the bottom of the sea at a depth of 37.5 meters (125 fsw), within Truk Lagoon. It can be reached by diving with diving equipment.

The shipwrecks within Truk Lagoon are still considered to be the last resting place for hundreds of killed Japanese seamen and soldiers. While diving at these sites, please treat human remains and their personal belongings with respect.

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Source

• Text: Kaj Metz
• Photos: Flickr