The sinking of the USS *Squalus* on May 23, 1939, during a test dive off the coast of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, constituted a significant submarine disaster. A malfunctioning induction valve resulted in catastrophic flooding, causing the submarine to rapidly descend to a depth of 240 feet. The immediate aftermath of the *Squalus* disaster resulted in the loss of 26 crew members; however, 33 sailors were remarkably rescued due to swift action and innovative techniques.