The USS Emmons – a stunning historical shipwreck in the north of Okinawa
The USS Emmons rests at around 42m (140 feet) near Kouri Island, with some spots reaching depths of 45m. After just a 15-minute boat ride from Kouri Jima port, divers can explore this remarkable historical shipwreck. The trip includes two boat dives, with an extended surface interval due to the depth. The Kouri island port offers amenities like a restaurant, market, and BlueSeal ice-cream stand, ideal for summertime.
The shipwreck features three moorings at the bow, stern, and middle section, where a memorial plate honors the 60 soldiers lost during its final battle in 1945. To explore the entire 106m-long (348 feet) wreck, two dives are necessary, starting from different moorings.
Mild to moderate currents are common, requiring experienced divers to navigate safely. Despite holding an Advanced Open Water license, divers must undergo a pre-dive assessment with LIVE FOR DIVING to ensure readiness for the challenging environment and safety at the Emmons wreck.
A short historical background
USS Emmons (DD-457/DMS-22) was a Gleaves-class destroyer of the United States Navy, named in honor of Rear Admiral George F. Emmons (1811–1884).
Launched on August 23, 1941, Emmons served in the Atlantic until 1944, participating in the invasion of France on June 6. She was involved in pre-assault minesweeping and heavy bombardment before the landing. During combat, Emmons engaged onshore batteries from close range.
In 1944, USS Emmons was converted into a high-speed destroyer minesweeper and reclassified as DMS-22. After training in the Atlantic and exercises in the Hawaiian Islands, she arrived at Ulithi Atoll in the Pacific Ocean to prepare for the invasion of Okinawa.
On April 6, 1945, during one of the first massive kamikaze attacks, kamikazes overwhelmed the USS Emmons and Rodman. Five of these kamikaze planes almost simultaneously struck the Emmons, resulting in severe damage and casualties. Despite the crew’s efforts, the ship was crippled and ablaze, leading to its eventual sinking on April 7 to prevent capture by the enemy. The attack resulted in the loss of 60 soldiers and 77 wounded.