US Warship 'Dancing Mouse' Found in Pacific After 80 Years

The wreckage of a US destroyer that sunk in a fierce battle with the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II has been discovered in the depths of the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of Australia.

The USS Edsall, commissioned in 1920 and nicknamed "the dancing mouse" due to its slippery movements during combat, met its demise on March 1, 1942, after a grueling battle with Japanese forces. The ship's commander, Lt. Joshua Nix, and his crew fought valiantly, evading over 1,400 shells from the enemy battleships and cruisers before being attacked by 26 carrier dive bombers.

According to US Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy, the bravery of the Edsall crew was unwavering as they took on the Japanese forces. Despite being outnumbered, Nix's position became "hopeless" once the ship was spotted by a Japanese carrier-based plane 200 miles south-southeast of Christmas Island.

The naval support ship MV Stoker, equipped with advanced hydrographic survey capabilities, played a crucial role in locating the wreck's remains. Australia's chief of navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, praised the Edsall crew for their heroic efforts to protect Australia during its early days in World War II.

According to historical records, Lt. Joshua Nix made a final act of defiance by pointing the bow of the ship at the Japanese surface ships as the fire raged around him. The bravery and sacrifice of the USS Edsall's crew have been recognized for generations, albeit with a nod of respect years after their untimely demise.

The wreckage of the USS Edsall serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II, and its rediscovery provides a unique opportunity to honor the history of this pivotal moment in human conflict.