IJN
Fubuki Class Destroyer
Built
Maizuru Naval Yard
Laid Down
April 12, 1928
Launched
September 29, 1929
Completed
March 30, 1929
Demensions (M)
11.86 / 115.3 / 118.41
Tons
2057
Crew
197
Shirley Cook 2006
Ship History
Hatsuyuki (Hatsiyuki) means 'First Snow'. Built by Maizuru Naval Yard begining 1927.
Wartime History
Participated in the second battle of Kula Gulf, July 6, 1943. During the battle, the ship hit by three dud shells, which caused heavy damage. Her hull was holed twice and six men were killed.
Sinking History
Sunk July 17, 1943 off Buin by US Navy air attack, at roughly 06.50S, 155.47E.
Shipwreck
This wreck was discovered post war and heavily salvaged divers for scrap metal in the early 1970s. In addition to the wartime damage, additional charges were exploded on the wreck to access inside compartments, blowing the turrets off the wreck and opening the hull.
Shirley Cook dove the wreck in late 1970s:
"No photographs of this, but have a very fancy porthole which nearly cost me my life. Left a bucket full of tools on the deck there as well. "
06.50S
155.47E
