National Submarine Day

Categories:: Appreciation
Tags:: Career Obscure
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every April 11
Holiday emoji:: submarin

National Submarine Day surfaces every April 11, commemorating the U.S. Navy’s historic acquisition of the USS Holland, its first modern commissioned submarine. This day pays tribute to the bravery and dedication of submariners. Discover the rich history of underwater exploration and honor those who serve in the silent service.

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Expected National Submarine Day Deals

On National Submarine Day, appreciation for those in the silent service often takes the form of special recognition rather than commercial deals. Many organizations and businesses offer year-round military and veteran discounts that may be highlighted. Look for local restaurants near naval bases to offer meal specials for active-duty personnel and veterans with ID. Military support organizations like Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and USO may host events or fundraising drives. Retailers such as Bass Pro Shops and Lowe’s often have standing military discounts. We will update this page with confirmed live recognition programs as April 11 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Submarine Day

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalSubmarineDay. Share stories of naval innovation or career paths in the submarine force.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalSubmarineDay. Share historical facts about submarines or messages of appreciation for submariners.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalSubmarineDay. Post photos of submarine memorials or share resources for military families.

National Submarine Day Hero

John Philip Holland

John Philip Holland (1841–1914) was an Irish engineer who designed the first submarine commissioned by the U.S. Navy. His vessel, the USS Holland, launched in 1897 and purchased on April 11, 1900, marked a pivotal moment in naval history. Holland's innovative designs laid the groundwork for modern submarine warfare and underwater exploration, earning him recognition as a pioneer in naval architecture.

History of National Submarine Day

National Submarine Day celebrates the United States government’s purchase of the Holland VI, but it actually wasn’t the first submarine the US had. The USS Alligator was the first known submarine owned by the United States. On August 10, 1832, Brutus Villeroi completed work on his submarine, possibly called the Nautilus, and showcased his invention off the coast of France.

At that time, the submarine was known as a “fish boat” that measured 10 feet 6 inches in length and 3 feet 7 inches at the widest diameter. The fish boat submerged, reaching depths of 20 feet and it was an impressive display. In 1861, Villeroi designed the USS Alligator that the United States sank in the ocean on April 2, 1863, after losing a battle with a brutal storm.

On April 11, 1900, the US government purchased the Holland VI for $150,000 designed by Irish-American inventor John Phillip Holland and commissioned on October 12, 1900. It was commanded by Lieutenant H.H. Caldwell and deemed the first modern submarine with a host of impressive components all in one vessel.

It had dual propulsion systems, a fixed longitudinal center of gravity, separate main and auxiliary ballast systems, a hydrodynamically advanced shape, and a modern weapon system. It’s reported that the Holland VI was decommissioned on November 21, 1910, and marked an important breakthrough for the US Navy.

Senator Thomas J. Dodd introduced a bill to the US Senate in 1969 that would make April 11 National Submarine Day. President Richard Nixon was in office at that time and there were no records of his proclamation. It might have passed the Senate and introduced it to the house in 1970, but the exact date is unclear. All the same, the US Navy and other organizations celebrated the day that commemorated the Holland VI and the contributions to modern warfare it made.

National Submarine Day timeline

1970

Submarine Day Emerges

The US Navy and other organizations celebrate the US Navy’s first modern submarine purchase, the USS Holland.

November 21, 1910

Naval Goodbye

The Holland VI is officially decommissioned and struck from the Naval Vessel Register.

April 11, 1900

Modern Marvel

The US government purchases the Holland VI modern submarine for around $150,000.

April 2, 1863

The Sunken Place

The first submarine purchased by the US government, the USS Alligator, sinks in the Atlantic Ocean.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Submarine Day

Local businesses can honor National Submarine Day by offering special recognition to active-duty military personnel and veterans, particularly those who served in the submarine force. Consider a ‘Submariner Special’ discount on meals or services with valid military ID. Businesses can also partner with local veteran organizations to host appreciation events or donate a portion of sales to support military families. Displaying patriotic decorations or information about the USS Holland can also raise awareness.

National Submarine Day FAQs

When is National Submarine Day?

In 2027, National Submarine Day will be observed on Sunday, April 11. It’s a day to reflect on the significant contributions of submariners and the technological advancements in underwater naval capabilities.

How many submarines does the U.S. Navy have?

The U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet is a dynamic force, with around 68 vessels in service in 2027, including Virginia-class attack submarines and Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, crucial for strategic deterrence and undersea warfare.

What is the significance of the USS Holland?

The USS Holland was a groundbreaking vessel, representing the dawn of modern submarine warfare for the U.S. Navy. Its successful trials and subsequent purchase on April 11, 1900, proved the viability of underwater combat and reconnaissance.

Is National Submarine Day a federal holiday?

While not a federal holiday, National Submarine Day serves as an important occasion for appreciation within the military community and among those interested in naval history. Government offices and most businesses operate as usual.

How To Celebrate National Submarine Day

Take a tour of a real submarine
Have you ever thought about what life is like on a submarine? Get an idea of sea life by going on a tour of a real submarine. You’ll learn firsthand about the duties onboard, the challenges they face, how submarines operate, and you can visualize what life would be like as a submariner.
Visit a Navy museum
If you’re a fan of history, visiting a Navy museum is the perfect place to go for all the information you desire. Learn about the epic battles and operations and the Naval events that changed the course of history. You’ll get your questions answered by experts who have all the information at their disposal.
Curate your own Naval experience
If you can't tour a submarine or a Navy museum, go on a virtual tour from home. Online videos are the next best thing. Conduct your own research and deep dive into specific Naval history that piques your curiosity using online videos. If you want an even more relaxing experience, have a submarine movie day with “The Hunt for Red October”, “U-571”, and more to get Hollywood’s take on submarine action.

5 Interesting Facts About National Submarine Day

The subway
The submarine is also a type of sandwich made with a long roll of bread, meats, vegetables, and spreads.
Women weren't allowed
Up until 2010, women could not be assigned to submarine crews because of the limited habitability and privacy onboard a submarine.
Nuclear future
Many of John Holland’s ideas couldn’t be applied to the submarine at the time and they had to wait for nuclear power to include them in the design.
The first submarine
The first known submarine was created in 1620 by Cornelius Drebbel.
Leagues above the rest
The German epic film “Das Boot” by director Wolfgang Peterson is considered by many as the best submarine film ever made.

Why We Love National Submarine Day

Submarines are instrumental in history
Without the battles that have been waged at sea, the course of world history would be remarkably different. World War II, the Korean War, and the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 all used submarines with varying results. Had the US Navy not been so formidable, modern-day society would have taken a different shape.
There’s something mysterious about them
There’s no mistaking that submarines are fascinating because, by their design, they are elusive. These vessels sink into unfathomable depths as they roam through the waters gathering data and completing covert missions. It’s no wonder why there are so many movies about them.
The best Navy in the world
The sheer might of the United States Navy is impressive and commands respect. Without a doubt, the United States has the most powerful Naval force in all the world with over 300,000 active personnel and another 100,000 in reserve. Because they hold the top spot, they’re on a constant mission to advance their operations to keep it that way.