USS F-1 (SS-20)

F-1 was an F class submarine completed in June of 1912 by Union Iron Works in San Francisco, CA. It had originally been named the Carp but was renamed prior to commissioning.

While engaged in exercises off Point Loma, USS F-1 and USS F-3 (SS-22) collided. F-3 rammed F-1’s port side which was torn open forward of the engine room. F-1 sank in seconds. Only three men were rescued by the submarines operating with the F-1. The other 19 were lost.

The cause was determined to be poor visibility due to fog and the difficulties maneuvering in close proximity to other submarines. No individual was held to blame.

LT Montgomery went on to a distinguished career in the Navy. He continued to serve in various capacities in submarines, including command of the USS R-20 (SS-97) and PCO of USS S-32 (SS-137). In 1922 he went to flight training and was designated a Naval aviator. He served in various aviation assignments and commands until retiring as a vice admiral in 1951.

After commissioning and sea trials, F-1 was assigned to the First Submarine Group, Pacific Torpedo Flotilla. She briefly held the record for the deepest dive, to 283 feet. In late 1912, F-1 slipped her mooring at Port Watsonville and grounded on a nearby beach. Two men died in the incident.

From July of 1914 to November 1915, she was based in Honolulu for developmental operations. F-1 was placed in ordinary from March of 1916 until June of 1917. When she was recommissioned, F-1 was part of the Patrol Force, Pacific, based in San Pedro, CA until she was lost.