|
On May 20, 1945, while patrolling as part
of the antisubmarine screen protecting the Okinawa landings, Chase
fired successfully on a diving kamikaze, but had to maneuver violently to
avoid the falling craft. The aircraft splashed 10 yards from the ship, and
the explosion of its two bombs ripped Chase's hull open, flooding the
engine and fire rooms. With her steering gear jammed at hard left rudder,
Chase drove off another suicide plane. Though listing badly, Chase
was kept afloat and towed into Kerama Retto for repairs. 35 wounded.
|