In 1991, a group of deep wreck divers discovered a World War II German U-boat 60 miles off the New Jersey coast. While it intrigues me that enemy submarines were able to come so close to our shores, it became an obsession with two of the divers. John Chatterton and Richie Kohler, also history buffs, made multiple dives and were able to retrieve artifacts. None had identifying marks and they called the sub U-Who. Consulting expert historians and combing through mountains of official records in the U.S. and in Germany, they were able to narrow the search down. Finally, after six years, the mystery was solved (you will need to read the book for the whole story).
The submarine was 230’ below the surface, and not many divers would attempt that depth. The wreckage was a maze of twisted and tangled metal and wires, as well as the resting place for the crew’s bones. At times I thought perhaps so many brushes with death, and actual deaths, would put an end to the search. But they persevered, and this was truly a riveting adventure.
Chatterton and Kohler were also co-hosts of Deep Sea Detectives on the History Channel. In addition to finding the U-Who, both have explored the Titanic’s wreck site in a submersible.
Fascinating story, and I highly recommend reading.
candysplanet 