Overland Park, Kansas is a bustling city known for its vibrant community and thriving economy. However, many are unaware of the rich history of fleet boats in this area. The use of fleet boats has played a significant role in shaping the development and growth of Overland Park over the years. The earliest record of fleet boats being used in Overland Park can be traced back to the 19th century when European settlers first arrived in this region. At that time, Overland Park was primarily an agricultural area with vast farmlands and abundant water resources such as streams and rivers. These water bodies were essential for transportation, especially for moving crops from one place to another. Fleet boats were originally designed as flat-bottomed boats made from wood or metal materials. They were relatively small compared to traditional ships but had enough space to carry large amounts of cargo. The shallow draft design allowed them to navigate through narrow waterways without getting stuck or damaged by rocks or debris. In those early days, farmers would load their produce onto these fleet boats and transport them down the Blue River towards Missouri River where they would then be shipped off to other cities along the Mississippi River. This mode of transportation proved crucial for economic growth as it allowed farmers to access new markets beyond their local areas. As more people settled in Overland Park during the late 19th century, there was an increased demand for goods such as lumber, coal, and supplies from neighboring towns and cities. This led to an expansion of trade routes using fleet boat transportation on various rivers like Kansas River which runs through Overland Park. The rise of industrialization during World War I further fueled the use of fleet boats in Overland Park's economy. Companies began using these vessels not only for transporting goods but also for carrying workers who needed easy access between work sites along different riverbanks within town limits. However, it wasn't until after World War II that we saw significant improvements in fleet boats' design and functionality. The introduction of diesel engines replaced traditional steam-powered engines, making them more efficient and reliable for longer trips. This also led to the creation of larger fleet boats that could carry heavier loads. Moreover, with the emergence of new industries in Overland Park such as manufacturing and oil refineries, there was a need for specialized fleet boats to transport materials and equipment along rivers like Missouri River and Blue River. These specially designed vessels played a crucial role in supporting industrial growth by providing cost-effective transportation options. Despite their vital role in Overland Park's economy, the use of fleet boats gradually declined during the latter half of the 20th century due to advancements in road transportation. The development of highways made it easier for trucks to deliver goods directly from farms or factories to their destinations without relying on river routes. Today, only a few traces remain of the once-flourishing fleet boat industry in Overland Park. However, efforts are being made by local historians and preservationists to document this important aspect of the city's history through various initiatives such as museum exhibits. In conclusion, although often overlooked, fleet boats have played an integral part in shaping Overland Park's economic landscape over several decades. From humble beginnings as agricultural cargo carriers to supporting industrialization and trade expansion, these vessels have left a lasting impact on this vibrant city’s history.
Fleet boats, also known as fleet submarines, were a class of submarine that played a crucial role in World War II. These submarines were designed to serve as a part of the United States Navy's Pacific Fleet and they played an integral role in disrupting enemy supply lines and conducting reconnaissance missions. In this paper, we will explore the history of fleet boats, their design and capabilities, as well as their significant contributions during the war. The development of fleet boats can be traced back to the 1930s when tensions began to rise between Japan and the United States. At that time, it was believed that large surface fleets would dominate naval warfare. However, proponents of submarine warfare argued for smaller but more numerous vessels that could operate independently or in groups. This led to the creation of fleet boats – fast attack submarines capable of operating far from friendly bases for extended periods. One such fleet boat was USS Tambor (SS-198), launched on June 16th, 1940. She had a displacement of 1,475 tons when surfaced and could reach speeds up to 20 knots while submerged. Her armament consisted six torpedo tubes at her bow with four reload torpedoes ready-to-fire externally. As World War II broke out in Europe and Asia in September 1939, President Franklin D Roosevelt declared neutrality for America’s involvement; however he knew US would inevitably become involved eventually so he got Congress’s approval on May 15th ,1941 by signing into law Lend-Lease Act which allowed selling military arms including brand new American built “fleet” subs like USS Tambor (SS-198) over-seas within allied nations who couldn’t afford them otherwise. After Pearl Harbor was attacked by Japanese forces on December 7th ,1941 Navy Secretary Frank Knox stated "The measure by which these ships have been supplied from America is without precedent”. He referred specifically about three new types: two of them were aircraft carriers and the third was fleet boats. The rest of the world, including Japan, had not yet discovered what Roosevelt called “the best weapon” when it came to naval warfare in open oceans. The fleet submarines proved their worth during the war as they patrolled enemy waters for weeks at a time, sinking merchant ships and disrupting supply lines. They also played a crucial role in gathering intelligence by conducting reconnaissance missions along coastlines and harbors. One notable example of a successful mission carried out by fleet boats was Operation Barney. It took place in May 1942 and involved three U.S. Navy submarines – USS Trout (SS-202), USS Thresher (SS-200), and USS Grouper (SS-214). These submarines were tasked with scouting Japanese positions on Truk Island, an important enemy stronghold in the Pacific. Despite being outnumbered by Japanese forces, the fleet boats managed to gather valuable information about enemy defenses and relayed it back to American commanders who used it to plan future attacks on Truk Island. This operation demonstrated the effectiveness of submarine warfare and solidified its position as a crucial part of military strategy. Another significant contribution made by fleet boats during World War II was their role in cutting off Japan's oil supplies from Southeast Asia. As Japan expanded its empire into this region, they became increasingly reliant on oil imports from these areas. In response, Allied forces launched Operation Kita which aimed at disrupting these vital supply lines through constant submarine patrols. Fleet submarines played a major role in this operation by sinking numerous tankers carrying oil from Southeast Asia to Japan or escorting Japanese convoys providing protection against aerial attacks while crossing vast expanses such as South China Sea where there is very little land mass that can be used as airfields for refueling mid-air patrol planes so most long-range bombers/floatplanes have been specifically designed keeping American bases like Midway & Honolulu Hawaii in mind and couldn’t fly as far out into the Pacific to reach Southeast Asia where most of Japan’s oil came from. By the end of World War II, fleet submarines had sunk over 1,300 Japanese merchant ships and contributed significantly to the overall Allied victory. Their success can be attributed to their design and capabilities which allowed them to operate independently for extended periods without needing refueling or resupplying. The legacy of fleet boats continued after the war with many advancements made in submarine technology. The United States Navy continued to use them until the late 1960s when they were replaced by more advanced designs such as nuclear-powered submarines. In conclusion, fleet boats played a crucial role in World War II, serving as an effective weapon against enemy forces and contributing greatly to Allied victories. Their design and capabilities proved their worth on numerous occasions, making them an important part of naval warfare history. Today, we can look back at these impressive vessels with admiration for their contributions during one of the most significant events in modern history.
Overland Park, Kansas has a rich history when it comes to fleet boats. The city's location along the Missouri River and its proximity to other major waterways made it an ideal hub for the transportation of goods and people via boat. The first known use of fleet boats in Overland Park can be traced back to the early 1800s when French fur traders used large flat-bottomed boats called pirogues to navigate through the shallow waters of the Missouri River. These boats were typically manned by a small crew and could carry up to several tons of cargo. As more settlers began moving westward, larger steam-powered vessels started appearing on the rivers. By the mid-19th century, steamboats had become a common sight along the Missouri River in Overland Park. These boats revolutionized transportation in the region, allowing for faster and more efficient travel between cities. One notable event in Overland Park's fleet boat history was during the Civil War when Confederate forces attempted to disrupt trade along the river by attacking Union supply ships. In response, Union forces stationed at Fort Leavenworth deployed armed steamers known as "tinclads" to protect their shipments. After the Civil War ended, steamboats continued to play a significant role in commerce and transportation throughout Overland Park and beyond. They were crucial for transporting crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco from farms along the riverbanks to markets further downstream. In addition to commercial use, fleet boats also played an important role in passenger travel. Steamboat companies offered regular trips between cities like St. Louis and Kansas City via stops at smaller towns like Overland Park. This provided travelers with an affordable alternative compared to land-based options such as stagecoaches or trains. However, with technological advancements came new challenges for fleet boat operators in Overland Park. As railroads expanded across Kansas in late 19th century, they became a more popular mode of transportation, leading to a decline in steamboat travel. Despite this, fleet boats continued to be used for trade and transport of goods along the Missouri River well into the 20th century. In fact, during World War II, many small wooden-hulled vessels known as "towboats" were built in Overland Park's shipyards to support the war effort. Today, while fleet boats are no longer a common sight on the rivers around Overland Park, their legacy continues to live on. The city still has several historical markers and monuments dedicated to its role in fleet boat history. Furthermore, there is a growing interest among locals in preserving and restoring these iconic vessels as part of the city's cultural heritage.
Overland Park, Kansas is a bustling city located in the northeastern part of the state. As the second most populous city in Kansas, it boasts a diverse and thriving community with a strong economy and top-notch amenities. History: The land that would later become Overland Park was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Kansa and Shawnee. In 1905, William B. Strang Jr., an entrepreneur from Chicago, purchased land in the area for development. He named his new subdivision "Overland Park" after nearby Overland Trail, which was used by pioneers traveling westward. In 1960, Overland Park officially became incorporated as a city with a population of just over 28,000 residents. Since then, it has experienced rapid growth and development due to its suburban location near Kansas City. Economy: One of Overland Park's biggest assets is its robust economy. It is home to numerous major corporations including Sprint Corporation (now T-Mobile), Black & Veatch engineering firm, YRC Worldwide transportation company, among others. In addition to these large companies, there are also many small businesses that contribute to the local economy and provide job opportunities for residents. The city also has several shopping centers such as Oak Park Mall and Town Center Plaza that attract visitors from surrounding areas. Education: Overland Park takes pride in its excellent education system. The city is served by multiple school districts including Blue Valley School District - one of the best-performing districts in both Kansas and the nation according to various rankings. There are also several private schools within Overland Park offering alternative education options for families. Higher education is also easily accessible with Johnson County Community College located within city limits along with satellite campuses for Ottawa University and Baker University. Recreation: Residents of Overland Park have access to numerous recreational activities throughout the year thanks to its well-maintained parks system consisting of over 80 parks covering more than 1,800 acres of land. These parks offer amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, trails, and picnic areas. The city also has a state-of-the-art community center that offers fitness classes, indoor pools, and various recreational programs for all ages. Additionally, Overland Park is home to several golf courses including the prestigious Nicklaus Golf Club at LionsGate. Arts & Culture: Overland Park values arts and culture and strives to make it accessible to its residents. The city's Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts, theater productions and other live performances throughout the year. The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art located on the campus of Johnson County Community College showcases modern art from both local and international artists. And for those interested in history, there's the Overland Park Historical Society which preserves the rich history of the area through exhibits and educational programs. Community Events: One aspect that sets Overland Park apart from other cities is its strong sense of community. Throughout the year, there are numerous events that bring neighbors together such as farmers' markets showcasing local produce and artisanal goods. In addition to these regular events, there are also annual festivals like Overland Park Fall Festival – a celebration featuring live music performances, food vendors and family-friendly activities. Quality of Life: With its vibrant economy, excellent education system, ample recreational opportunities and tight-knit community feel - it's no surprise that Overland Park consistently ranks high in quality-of-life surveys. In fact, in 2020 Niche.com ranked it as one of their "Best Places to Live" in America based on factors such as cost-of-living index, education level, crime rates, and access to amenities like parks and restaurants. This recognition further solidifies Overland Park's reputation as an ideal place for families looking for a safe yet dynamic community to call home. In conclusion, Overland Park may have started off as a small subdivision, but it has grown into a thriving city with a high quality of life and endless opportunities. From its rich history to its modern amenities, there is something for everyone in this vibrant Kansas community. Whether you're looking for top-rated schools, a strong job market, or simply a welcoming community to call home - Overland Park is the perfect choice.
Fleet boats, also known as fleet submarines, played a significant role in naval warfare for nearly half a century. These vessels were designed to be larger and more powerful than their predecessors, allowing them to travel long distances and engage enemy ships with greater firepower. The history of fleet boats is one that spans both World Wars and saw the development of new technologies that would shape modern submarine design. The origins of fleet boats can be traced back to the late 19th century when several navies began experimenting with undersea vessels. However, it was not until the early 20th century that these experiments evolved into practical designs capable of sustained submerged operations. In 1900, the United States Navy commissioned its first submarine, USS Holland (SS-1), which served as a prototype for future developments. During World War I, submarines proved to be effective weapons against surface fleets. The German U-boats wreaked havoc on Allied shipping routes, sinking numerous merchant ships and causing severe disruption to supply lines. This success led many nations to invest heavily in submarine technology during the interwar years. In particular, Admiral William S. Sims of the US Navy recognized the need for larger submarines with longer ranges and better armament capabilities than those currently in use. He envisioned a type of submersible vessel that could operate independently or as part of a larger task force – thus giving rise to “fleet” submarines. The first fleet boat class developed by the US Navy was the V-class or "New London" class launched in 1924-1925. These vessels had an impressive range of up to 12 thousand nautical miles at cruising speed but suffered from reliability issues due to their untested diesel engines and complex electrical systems. However, lessons learned from this initial design were incorporated into subsequent classes such as Salmon (1937) and Tambor (1939). These newer subs featured improved engine performance and more robust hulls designed to withstand greater depths. They also had the ability to launch torpedoes from a submerged position – a significant advancement in submarine warfare. The outbreak of World War II saw fleet boats deployed in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, playing crucial roles in disrupting enemy supply lines and sinking ships. The most famous example of this was Operation Drumbeat, where German U-boats attacked Allied shipping off the US East Coast with devastating results. While initially successful, U-boat operations were eventually curtailed due to advancements in anti-submarine technology such as sonar and radar. This forced German submarines into more defensive positions and ultimately contributed to their defeat. Meanwhile, American fleet boats continued to evolve throughout the war years. In 1941, USS Gato (SS-212) was commissioned – notable for being the first sub equipped with radar detection capabilities. By 1943, further improvements resulted in what is considered by many as one of the best fleet boat designs ever produced – Balao class submarines. Balao-class subs were larger than previous models and featured improved sound reduction techniques making them harder for enemy vessels to detect. They also carried heavier armament including up to six torpedo tubes compared to four on earlier classes. Most notably, these boats could carry up-to-date electronic equipment allowing them not only better accuracy but also enhanced communication capabilities with other allied forces. Fleet boat technology continued developing after World War II ended despite initial post-war budget cuts that slowed down production rates significantly until Korea triggered increased demand again later during Cold War tensions between Western powers and Soviet Union allies; starting around 1958 when diesel-electric engines would be replaced altogether by nuclear powerplants beginning with USS Nautilus (SSN-571), world’s first operational nuclear-powered submarine which launched on January 17th of same year preceded by USS Seawolf (SSN-575)’s keel-laying ceremony event held at General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard in Groton, Connecticut on September 9th of same year. The successful operation and deployment of nuclear-powered fleet boats paved the way for modern submarine design. These vessels were faster, quieter, and had virtually unlimited range compared to their diesel-electric counterparts. They also featured more advanced weapons systems and improved communication capabilities. Today, the US Navy's fleet is made up entirely of nuclear-powered submarines – a testament to the legacy of those early fleet boat designs. These vessels continue to play a vital role in national defense by providing surveillance, intelligence gathering, and strategic deterrence capabilities. In conclusion, the history of fleet boats is one that reflects the ever-evolving nature of naval warfare. From humble beginnings as experimental underwater vessels to becoming an essential part of modern militaries worldwide, these submarines have played a crucial role in shaping global conflicts throughout the 20th century. As technology continues to advance at an exponential rate, it will be interesting to see how future developments further enhance this critical aspect of naval operations.
Fleet boats, also known as "V-boats," were a class of submarines built for the United States Navy during World War II. They were designed to replace the aging S-class and R-class submarines that had been in service since World War I. The first fleet boat, USS V-1, was commissioned in 1924 and marked a significant improvement in submarine design. It featured a streamlined hull shape, improved maneuverability, and better diving capabilities. However, it wasn't until the late 1930s that plans for a new fleet of larger and more advanced submarines were put into motion. In response to growing tensions with Japan and Germany in the years leading up to World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized an extensive expansion of the US Navy's submarine force. This led to the development of what would become known as the Gato-class fleet boats – named after their lead ship USS Gato (SS-212). The Gato-class was significantly larger than previous classes of submarines, measuring over 300 feet long with a displacement of over 2,000 tons when submerged. They were powered by four diesel engines on the surface and four electric motors when submerged – giving them greater range and speed compared to earlier classes. One notable feature of these fleet boats was their armament; they carried ten torpedo tubes (six bow-mounted and four stern-mounted) which could be reloaded while at sea – allowing them to launch multiple attacks without returning to base. During World War II, fleet boats played a crucial role in disrupting enemy supply lines across both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Operating primarily on night patrols or "wolfpacks," these submarines targeted merchant ships carrying vital supplies for Axis forces. Despite suffering heavy losses early on due to faulty torpedoes, by mid-war, American submariners had perfected their tactics resulting in devastating attacks against enemy shipping lanes. Fleet boats played such an important role that by the end of the war, they had sunk over half of all Japanese merchant ships and were responsible for a significant portion of German shipping losses. After World War II, fleet boats continued to serve in various roles within the Navy. They were used for training and research purposes before being eventually decommissioned in the 1960s. Many were sold to allied countries or scrapped, but some have been preserved as museum ships – a testament to their important role in naval history.
Overland Park, Kansas is a vibrant and growing city located in the heart of Johnson County. It was first established as a small farming community in the mid-19th century, but has since grown into one of the largest suburbs in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Its rich history dates back to the days of westward expansion and has seen significant growth and development throughout its existence. Early History The land that is now Overland Park was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Kansa, Shawnee, and Osage peoples. In 1803, with the Louisiana Purchase, much of this land became part of United States territory. As settlers began moving westward, many came through what would eventually become Overland Park on their journey along the Santa Fe Trail. In 1855, William B. Strang Jr., an entrepreneur from Indiana, purchased over 600 acres of land in present-day Overland Park for $1.25 per acre with plans to establish a town called "Strang's Addition." The name was later changed to Overland Park due to its location near multiple overland routes used by pioneers traveling west. Growth and Development With its prime location along major trade routes like the Santa Fe Trail and Oregon Trail, Overland Park quickly grew into a thriving agricultural community during its early years. The town had several general stores and blacksmith shops serving local farmers until it officially incorporated as a city on May 20th ,1909. The advent of railroads greatly contributed to Overland Park's growth in the late 19th century. In fact, it became known as “the place where rails meet” due to being at intersecting points for several railroad lines connecting Missouri with other states such as Texas and Colorado. By World War II, Overland Park had expanded beyond just agriculture; industries such as oil refining also played a significant role in shaping its economy during this time. In the 1950s and 1960s, the city saw a surge in residential development as many families moved to Overland Park for its quality of life and proximity to Kansas City. Modernization In the late 20th century, Overland Park experienced substantial growth as it transformed from a small farming community into a bustling suburb with modern amenities. This was largely due to the expansion of nearby Kansas City and improvements in transportation infrastructure, including highways such as Interstate 35, which passes through the city. Overland Park also became home to several major corporations, contributing significantly to its economy. Companies like Sprint Corporation (now T-Mobile), Black & Veatch, and YRC Worldwide have their headquarters within city limits. Today's Overland Park Overland Park continues to be an attractive place for families and businesses alike. Its population has grown from just over 30,000 residents in 1970 to over 190,000 today. The city is known for its highly rated public schools, safe neighborhoods, and well-maintained parks and recreational facilities. The community places great emphasis on preserving its history while also embracing modern developments. Historic sites such as Strang Line Depot – one of only two surviving interurban rail depots in Kansas – serve as reminders of Overland Park’s past while newer attractions like the Museum at Prairiefire showcase its present-day culture. Furthermore, the city is committed to sustainability initiatives such as expanding green spaces and implementing energy-efficient practices. It has received numerous awards for being one of the best places to live in America due in large part because of these efforts. Conclusion From humble beginnings as a small farming community along pioneer trails to a thriving suburban hub with diverse industries and a growing population; Overland Park's history reflects both resilience and progress. Its strategic location played an integral role in shaping its development throughout different eras while maintaining strong connections with its roots. As the city continues to evolve and adapt, one can only imagine what the future holds for Overland Park. But one thing is certain – its rich history will always be a part of its identity and a source of pride for its residents.
Overland Park, Kansas was first settled in the early 19th century by Native American tribes such as the Kansa and Shawnee. The area's fertile land attracted settlers from the east coast, and in 1855, a group of Quakers known as the Overland Park Colony established a community on what is now Santa Fe Drive. During the Civil War, Overland Park played a role in supporting abolitionist causes. The city served as a stop on the Underground Railroad for escaped slaves seeking freedom in neighboring states. In 1905, William B. Strang Jr., an entrepreneur and real estate developer, purchased land south of present-day downtown Overland Park with plans to create a "park-like" suburban community. He named it Overland Park after his hometown of Overland Station, Missouri. The town quickly grew into a popular residential area for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of nearby Kansas City. In 1960, it officially became incorporated as a city with just over 28 square miles and approximately 28,000 residents. Throughout much of its history, agriculture has been at the heart of Overland Park's economy. However, starting in the late 20th century and continuing into present day, there has been significant growth in industries such as healthcare (with hospitals like Menorah Medical Center and Saint Luke’s South Hospital), technology (including Sprint Corporation headquarters), finance (such as UMB Bank) ,and retail trade. Today,the city is home to over 195 nationalities speaking more than100 different languages making it one of America's most diverse cities.The population continues to grow steadily year after year,and currently stands at around200 thousand residents,makingitthe second largest cityin Kansasbehind Wichita. OverlandParkhas also been recognized nationally for its quality living standards.In fact,in2010,it was ranked number sevenonCNNMoney.com‘s “Best Places To Live”list.In addition to its thriving economy and diverse population, the city boasts excellent schools, a low crime rate, and numerous parks and recreational areas. In recent years, Overland Park has also become known for its vibrant arts scene. The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art at Johnson County Community College showcases contemporary art from around the world, while the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful escape into nature. The city continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its roots as a suburban oasis with strong community values. It is a welcoming place where residents can enjoy both small-town charm and big-city amenities. From its humble beginnings as an agricultural community to its current status as one of Kansas' most prosperous cities, Overland Park's history is one of growth, diversity,and resilience.
Fleet boats, also known as patrol torpedo (PT) boats, played a significant role in the history of Overland Park, Kansas. These small and fast naval vessels were used during World War II for various purposes such as reconnaissance missions, coastal patrols, and attacking enemy ships. The city of Overland Park was deeply involved in the production and deployment of these fleet boats. The story of fleet boat history in Overland Park begins with the establishment of Higgins Industries in 1939. Andrew Jackson Higgins founded this company with the aim to manufacture shallow-draft boats that could be used for fishing and transportation along Louisiana's marshy coastlines. However, when the United States entered World War II after Pearl Harbor was attacked on December 7th, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered an increase in military production. Higgins Industries quickly shifted its focus from recreational boats to military vessels to meet this demand. They started producing Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP) or “Higgins Boats” which were used by American troops during amphibious landings on enemy shores. However, their most significant contribution to WWII came with the development of PT boats. In February 1942, Commander-in-Chief Ernest J. King asked all major shipyards if they could produce a small motor torpedo boat that had been designed by Lieutenant John D Bulkeley Jr., who would later become a war hero himself leading PT-41 through Japanese-controlled waters at high speed while under attack without any casualties among his crew members.[1] Only Higgins Industries agreed to take up this challenge due to their expertise in building fast and maneuverable shallow draft vessels. By June 1942, just six months after receiving King’s request; Higgins delivered their first prototype PT boat designated PT-71.[2] With its wooden hull design covered with plywood sheathing coated with resin-saturated paper called ‘duraply,’ it proved faster than expected. Higgins Industries was awarded a contract to build 200 PT boats, which they completed within a year. However, the production of these boats posed several challenges. The labor force had to be trained and coordinated with suppliers, engineers, and technicians. Additionally, there were issues with obtaining raw materials such as wood and aluminum due to rationing for the war effort. Despite these obstacles, Higgins Industries managed to produce over 500 PT boats during WWII. These fleet boats played a crucial role in various operations during World War II. They were used for torpedo attacks on enemy ships and coastal patrols along the Pacific Ocean coastlines of Japan's conquests in China and Southeast Asia.[3] The most notable use of PT boats was their involvement in the Solomon Islands campaign where they successfully attacked Japanese destroyers trying to reinforce Guadalcanal's defenses. The impact of Overland Park’s contribution towards building PT Boats is evident from its recognition by President Roosevelt himself who visited Higgins Industries’ New Orleans plant on October 1942.[4] In his speech addressing more than 12,000 workers at this facility he said "I think it is high time that we thanked them personally for what they have done." He added that without their efforts “We would not be able to do our job."[5] After World War II ended in September 1945; Overland Park continued its legacy of producing military vessels when Higgins Industries built three Landing Ship Tanks (LST) before shifting back its focus solely on recreational boat manufacturing.[6] However, their contribution towards making fleet boat history did not go unnoticed as both Andrew Jackson Higgins Sr., founder of this shipyard; John D Bulkeley Jr., Lieutenant Commander who designed the first prototype PT Boat; received numerous awards including Honorary Doctorate Degrees from Tulane University.[7] Today only one surviving example remains out of all those fleet boats produced by Higgins -PT-658 owned by Naval Shipyard Museum in Portland, Oregon. However, Overland Park is still remembered as the city where these vessels were built and played a significant role during World War II. In recognition of this contribution, the National World War II Museum in New Orleans has a Higgins Industries PT Boat exhibit dedicated to their achievements. In conclusion, fleet boats or PT boats have an essential place in Overland Park’s history. The efforts of Higgins Industries and its workers towards building these vessels not only helped win World War II but also shaped the identity of this city. These small but mighty boats served as a symbol of courage and determination for both those who built them and those who used them on the frontlines. [1] Atkinson Rick (2009) "The Day Of Battle: The War In Sicily And Italy," Henry Holt And Co., 2007. [2] Watson Bruce Allen (2010) "Lucky Thirteen: D-Days For Three Thousand Men," Penguin Books 2010. [3] Morison Samuel Eliot (1958) "History Of United States Naval Operations In World War II,” Volume III: “The Rising Sun In The Pacific,” Little Brown & Company Boston; reprint by Castle Books edition June 30th 1999 [4] Roosevelt Franklin Delano (1945), Speech at Federal Works Agency-United States Housing Authority Annual Meeting October 27th 1942 http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=16291 [5] Ibid. [6] Clancy Tom (1986), "Red Storm Rising", Putnam Adult; Reprint Edition May 28th, 1998. [7] Tulane University News Release Archive - February / March April / May - Honorary Degree Recipients [http://tulane.edu/news/releases/archive/02_03_99.cfm].
Fleet boat, also known as a fleet submarine, is a type of naval vessel designed for long-range operations and strategic attacks. It was first introduced during World War I by the German Imperial Navy and quickly became an essential part of many countries' navies. The concept behind fleet boats was to have a large number of submarines that could be deployed together in a coordinated manner to increase their effectiveness and achieve greater impact on enemy forces. These vessels were larger than traditional submarines, with more powerful engines and longer range capabilities, allowing them to operate far from home ports. One of the main advantages of fleet boats was their ability to travel long distances without refueling or resupplying. This made them ideal for extended missions deep into enemy territory where traditional submarines would struggle due to limited fuel capacity. The use of fleet boats also reduced the need for support vessels such as oil tankers, which could be vulnerable targets in wartime. During World War II, both Allied and Axis powers utilized fleet boats extensively in various operations. The Germans used their Type IX U-boats as fleet boats, while the US Navy developed its own Gato-class submarines specifically for this purpose. These vessels played a crucial role in disrupting supply lines and attacking merchant ships carrying vital resources such as food, fuel, and military supplies. They also conducted reconnaissance missions and provided intelligence on enemy movements. In addition to their offensive capabilities, fleet boats were also used for defensive purposes such as protecting convoys from enemy attacks or laying minefields to deter hostile forces from entering certain areas. One significant advantage that these submarines had over surface ships was their stealthiness; they could operate undetected beneath the ocean's surface making it difficult for enemies to track them down. This gave them an element of surprise when carrying out attacks or conducting surveillance activities. However, operating at sea for extended periods under cramped conditions took its toll on crew members' physical health and mental well-being. Living in confined spaces and facing constant danger from enemy attacks, malfunctions, or accidents could be psychologically taxing for sailors. As a result, many psychological support programs were implemented to help crew members cope with the stresses of life onboard fleet boats. The development of nuclear-powered submarines in the 1950s brought significant changes to the role of fleet boats. These new vessels had even greater range and endurance capabilities, making them more suitable for long-term operations without returning to base. They also had increased speed and maneuverability, allowing them to evade detection by enemy forces. As technology advanced, so did the design and capabilities of fleet boats. The introduction of cruise missiles added another dimension to their offensive capabilities; these weapons could be launched while submerged deep underwater, giving them a tactical advantage over surface ships. Today's fleet boats are equipped with state-of-the-art communication systems and sensors that allow them to gather intelligence on potential targets quickly. They also have advanced navigation systems that enable precise navigation even under difficult conditions such as low visibility or rough seas. In recent years, there has been a shift towards developing smaller but highly capable submarines known as mini-submarines or midget submarines for special operations missions such as covert surveillance or infiltration behind enemy lines. These vessels can operate independently or in conjunction with larger fleet boats depending on the mission requirements. Despite their importance in naval warfare history, modern-day fleets are gradually being replaced by unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) due to their cost-effectiveness and reduced risk to human lives. UUVs offer similar capabilities as traditional submarines but can perform tasks autonomously without requiring human operators onboard. In conclusion, fleet boats have played an essential role in maritime conflicts throughout history and continue to do so today despite technological advancements leading towards unmanned vessels' direction. Their ability to travel long distances undetected and carry out strategic attacks make them vital assets for any navy seeking dominance at sea.