September 14, 2013 marks the 99th Anniversary of the Loss of HMAS AE1, Australia’s first submarine, commissioned into the Royal Australian Navy in 1914 and tragically lost at sea with all hands off East New Britain.
“The loss of AE1 is one of Australia’s greatest maritime mysteries. It is vital we remember the sacrifice AE1 made to protect our shores, so on September 14 we honour the 35 crew who lost their silent battle and remember the families who never knew what became of them” said The Submarine Institute of Australia Executive Director, Steve Davies.
Mr. Davies explained that AE1, along with her sister submarine AE2, was part of a Naval and Military Expeditionary Force assembled at the outbreak of World War 1 to destroy enemy wireless stations in German New Guinea and to deny bases to the German Pacific fleet. Mr. Davies added that when the AE1 sunk she was conducting a routine patrol to the east of the Duke of York Island group near Rabaul when she failed to return to harbour. Despite three days of searching, no trace of oil, debris or any sign of the 35 crew were found.
“Australia was one of the first nations to recognise the value of submarines in maritime defence, 99 years ago. Despite losing both of our first submarines during World War 1 they showed us that submarines operated with skill and daring far from home could have a disproportionate effect. Today Australia remembers these lessons and is amongst the leading submarine-operating nations in the world.” Mr. Davies commented.