L-2 (SS-41)

 

 

SSBN627

L-2

(SS-41: dp. 450 (surf.), 548 (subm.); 1. 167'5"; b. 17'5"
dr. 13'7"; s. 14 k. (surf.), 10.5 k. (Subm.); colt 28; a.
13", 418"tt.;cl.L-1)

L-2 (SS-41) was laid down 19 March 1914 by the Fore River Shipbuilding Co., Quincy, Mass.; launched 11 February 1915; sponsored by Mrs. Russel Gray; and commissioned 29 September 1916, Lt. (]g.) Augustine H. Gray in command.

After exercises along the Atlantic coast, L-2 arrived in Key West, Fla., for experiments in submarine warfare. After operating in southern waters through March 1917, the submarine prepared for World War I service.

Departing New London, Conn., 27 November 1917, L-2 steamed for Europe via the Azores, arriving Queenstown Ireland, 27 January 1918. Based at Bantry Bay, Ireland she patrolled around the British Isles and, with other members of her squadron, ranged the North Atlantic, reducing losses to German submarines of shipping vital in supplying the Allied armies. L-2 attached enemy submarines on 26 May and 10 July with inconclusive results. Her constant vigilance on patrol contributed to the overall success of American submarine operations in World War I.

After the war, L-2 departed Portland' England, 3 January 1919 for home. Arriving Philadelphia in early February, the submarine experimented with torpedo and under

sea detection techniques along the Atlantic coast until 1922. L-2 was placed in reduced commission at New London, Conn., 1 May 1922, and decommissioned at Hampton Roads, Va., 4 May 1923. She was scrapped and her materials were sold 28 November 1933, in accordance with the terms of the London Treaty