IJN
Submarine
Ship History
Built at Kawasaki's Kobe Yard. Commissioned as the SS-50, based in the Yokosuka Naval District on April 28, 1928. On June 1, 1938 the sub was redesignated I-123.
Wartime History
The Pacific war began with the I-123 laying 40 mines in the Balabac Strait off the Philippines. A defect in her hull causes the sub to head for her base at Camranh Bay in French Indochina for repairs. By December 18, the sub is repaired and proceeds to the Java Sea.
On August 7, 1942, the I-123 departs Rabaul to shell Guadalcanal and reconnoiter the Lunga Point anchorage. It arrives at Savo on August 11th.
Sinking History
On August 29, 1942 the sub sent a distress signal that she is being followed by enemy aircraft. Later that morning, lookouts on the USS Gamble DM-15, headed to Guadalcanal, spot a large enemy submarine. Although designated a destroyer-minelayer, the old four-piper still carries antisubmarine gear. After several depth charge attacks, the followed runs through large oil slicks. Her crew finds deck planking and sees a large air bubble break the surface. The I-123 sunk about 60 miles east of Savo.
In reports, the sinking of the I-1 was claimed by USS Gamble DD-123. It would appear that somehow the submarines have been mixed up and what was meant in the Gamble's reports was that it sank the I-123.
9 21S
160 43E
Tabular Movements
