O-9, like many of her sister boats, served the Navy well until 1931 when they were laid up in reserve in Philadelphia. She was refitted and reconditioned for service in the spring of 1941 and recommissioned on April 14, 1941. Unfortunately, O-9 was lost with all hands in a tragic accident just two months later. Please see our Notable Submarine Accidents page for an explanation of what happened. For the crew of the O-9, rest assured that you can rest in peace.
The abundance of signal flags on the O-9 in this photo indicates that this was some sort of special occasion such as a VIP visit, a holiday, or a Navy Day celebration. The exact location and date of the photo is unknown, be we are speculating that it is at Coco Solo, Panama in the mid 1920's.
Photo in the private collection of Ric Hedman
A crowded set of piers at Submarine Base Coco Solo, Panama in 1923. O-9 is seen here with sister boats O-7 and O-3.
