The history of fleet boats in Lawton, Oklahoma dates back to the early 20th century when the city was still a small frontier town. As the area developed and grew in population, there was a need for reliable transportation on the nearby lakes and rivers. This is when fleet boats came into play. Fleet boats, also known as riverboats or steamboats, were first introduced to Lawton’s waterways in the late 1800s. These vessels were powered by steam engines and had shallow drafts that allowed them to navigate through shallow waters. They played an important role in transporting goods and people along the Red River and Wichita Mountains region. One of the earliest recorded uses of fleet boats in Lawton was during World War I when they were utilized for military purposes. The United States Army Corps of Engineers commissioned several fleet boats to be built at Fort Sill near Lawton for use on Texas’ Red River during wartime operations. After World War I ended, these fleet boats continued their service as commercial transport vessels along the Red River route connecting Oklahoma with Texas. Farmers from surrounding areas would load their produce onto these boats which would then travel downriver towards larger cities such as Dallas-Fort Worth where their goods could be sold. However, with advancements in technology such as railroads and trucks, fleet boat usage declined rapidly by the mid-20th century. Many of these once bustling fleets became abandoned or repurposed for recreational activities like fishing charters or tourist cruises. In modern times, there are only a handful of active fleet boat operators left in Lawton due to declining demand for waterway transportation services. However, some enthusiasts have worked hard to preserve this piece of local history by restoring old vessels and keeping them operational. One notable example is “The Pride,” a restored wooden-hulled sternwheeler originally built-in 1929 that now offers tours on Lake Murray State Park located just south-east of Lawton. The Pride is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering both educational and recreational experiences. Aside from its commercial and recreational uses, fleet boats have also played an essential role in Lawton’s cultural history. They were often used as floating theaters for live performances or even served as mobile hospitals during times of war or natural disasters. In fact, one of the most significant events in Lawton’s history involving fleet boats was the Great Flood of 1941. The Red River rose to record-breaking levels causing severe damage to surrounding towns. Fleet boats were quickly mobilized to provide rescue and relief efforts, saving countless lives and delivering much-needed supplies to affected areas. Today, there are ongoing efforts by local historians and organizations to document the rich history of fleet boats in Lawton through exhibits, oral histories, and preservation projects. These initiatives aim not only to educate future generations about this vital part of the city’s past but also to honor those who contributed to its development. In conclusion, while their usage may have declined over time due to advancements in technology, fleet boats still hold a special place in the hearts of many Lawton residents. Their legacy continues through restored vessels like “The Pride” which offer glimpses into a bygone era when these mighty steam-powered vessels ruled Oklahoma's waterways with grace and efficiency.
Introduction Fleet boats, also known as fleet submarines or S-boats, were a type of submarine that played a significant role in naval warfare during the first half of the 20th century. These vessels were designed and used primarily by the United States Navy (USN) and were crucial to their success in both World War I and II. In this paper, we will explore the history, design, capabilities, and impact of fleet boats on naval operations. History The development of fleet boats can be traced back to the early 1900s when several European countries began building large submarine fleets. The USN recognized the potential threat posed by these underwater vessels and started developing their own submarines. However, it wasn't until after World War I that they realized the need for larger, more powerful submarines capable of long-range missions. In 1919, Admiral William Sims proposed a new class of submarines that could operate alongside surface ships as part of an organized fleet – thus giving rise to the term "fleet boat." The design was heavily influenced by British H-class submarines which had demonstrated superior performance during WWI. With funding from Congress secured in 1921, construction on these new subs began. Design and Capabilities Fleet boats were significantly larger than previous classes of USN submarines with an average displacement ranging from 2,000-3,500 tons compared to 250-300 tons for earlier models. This increase in size allowed for much greater endurance at sea due to larger fuel tanks and provisions storage capacity. These vessels also featured advanced technology such as diesel-electric propulsion systems which greatly increased range while submerged compared to traditional gasoline engines used previously. Additionally, they were equipped with state-of-the-art sonar equipment allowing them to detect enemy ships before being detected themselves. One unique feature of fleet boats was their ability to carry seaplanes onboard for reconnaissance missions – making them one of few submarine classes capable of this. This gave fleet boats a significant advantage in locating enemy vessels and directing attacks. Impact on Naval Operations Fleet boats played a crucial role in both World War I and II, proving to be major assets for the USN. During WWI, they were utilized primarily for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions, protecting allied shipping lanes from German U-boats. However, it was during WWII that their full potential was realized. In the early years of the war, fleet boats were used mainly for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, providing vital information on enemy movements and locations. As the war progressed, they became increasingly involved in offensive operations – sinking numerous Japanese merchant ships and even damaging an aircraft carrier. Their ability to operate as part of a larger fleet also proved invaluable in coordinated attacks against enemy forces. Fleet boats often worked alongside surface ships to make surprise attacks on Japanese convoys or conduct daring rescue missions behind enemy lines. Legacy The success of fleet boats during WWII cemented their place as one of the most important submarine classes in USN history. Many advancements made by these vessels helped shape future designs including larger sizes with improved range capabilities and advanced sonar technology. However, as nuclear-powered submarines began to replace diesel-electric ones in the 1950s, fleet boats slowly phased out of service by the end of that decade. Despite this, their impact on naval warfare cannot be understated – influencing submarine design strategies for decades to come. Conclusion Fleet boats revolutionized submarine technology with their large size and advanced capabilities which greatly expanded the scope and effectiveness of underwater operations during both World Wars. Their contribution towards ASW missions ensured safe passage for allied vessels while their participation in offensive actions played a significant role in securing victory for US forces. Although no longer actively used today, these remarkable subs will always hold an important place in naval history – forever remembered as pioneers that paved the way for modern-day submarines.
Lawton, Oklahoma has a rich history when it comes to fleet boats. These vessels played a crucial role in the development and growth of the city, as well as its surrounding areas. In the late 19th century, Lawton was just a small town on the edge of Indian Territory (present-day Oklahoma). The area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes who lived off the land and relied on rivers for transportation. However, with the arrival of European settlers and increased trade opportunities, there was a need for faster and more efficient forms of transportation. This is where fleet boats came into play. Fleet boats were wooden steamboats that could navigate shallow waters and transport cargo and passengers along rivers like the Red River, Arkansas River, and Canadian River. They were powered by high-pressure steam engines which allowed them to travel against strong currents or upstream. The first known fleet boat to operate in Lawton was called "The J.H." It began service in 1889 on Red River between Colbert's Ferry (near present-day Denison) and Fort Sill (located near present-day Lawton). This boat proved to be successful in transporting goods such as cotton from nearby plantations to markets downriver. As demand grew for river transportation, more fleet boats were built or brought from other parts of the country. By 1900, there were at least eight different companies operating over twenty-five fleet boats on various waterways around Lawton. These included names like "Comanche Chief," "Diamond Jo," "Cherokee Rose," and "Caddo Belle." Fleet boats not only provided essential services for commerce but also became popular among tourists looking to explore these scenic waterways. Many visitors would take day trips on these boats enjoying live music performances while taking in views of nature along their journey. However, with advancements in railroads during this time period, steamboat traffic gradually declined. In addition, several major floods caused extensive damage to the boats and their routes, making it difficult for them to continue operating. By the 1920s, most fleet boats in Lawton had ceased operation. The last steamboat to run commercially on Red River was "The Alice," which made its final trip in 1934. However, some of these vessels were repurposed as excursion or fishing boats and continued to operate until the late 1940s. Today, there are no remaining fleet boats in Lawton. However, their legacy lives on through historical markers and museums that showcase their importance in shaping the city's early economy and transportation network. These vessels played a vital role not only in connecting Lawton with other parts of Oklahoma but also with surrounding states like Texas and Arkansas. In conclusion, fleet boats have left an indelible mark on Lawton's history as pioneers of river transportation during a time when roads were scarce. They provided essential services for trade and commerce while also serving as popular tourist attractions that brought people from all over to experience the beauty of this region by waterway. Their story is one that continues to be remembered and celebrated within the community today.
Located in the southwestern region of Oklahoma, Lawton is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. The city was founded in 1901 as a trading post on the Chisholm Trail, and has since grown into a bustling urban center known for its military presence, thriving economy, and friendly community. History: The original inhabitants of Lawton were Native American tribes such as the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache. In the late 19th century, these tribes were forcibly relocated to reservations by the US government. The area where Lawton now stands was opened up for settlement after this relocation process. In 1901, entrepreneur Cyrus Avery purchased land from rancher John Miles Lee to establish his own town along the railroad line that connected Fort Sill (a nearby military base) to other cities in Oklahoma. He named it "Lawton" after Major General Henry Ware Lawton who served during the Civil War and later fought against Native American tribes in western states. Military Presence: Fort Sill has played a significant role in shaping Lawton's development. Established in 1869 as an artillery training site for soldiers fighting wars with Native Americans, it remains one of the largest military bases in America today. The fort employs over 10% of Lawton’s population and contributes greatly to its economy. Economy: Aside from Fort Sill's impact on employment opportunities within the city, oil production also plays a major role in driving Lawton's economy. Oil drilling began here around World War I when large reserves were discovered beneath southwest Oklahoma's red soil. Today oil still accounts for about half of all mineral income generated by state-owned lands within Comanche County (where Lawton is located). Apart from oil production and military activities at Fort Sill contributing significantly to Lawtons’ GDP growth rate which hovers above $5 billion annually; retail trade provides more jobs than any other sector followed closely by healthcare and government activities. Culture: Lawton has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The city is home to the Museum of the Great Plains which showcases the history and culture of Oklahoma's Native American tribes. Other notable cultural institutions include the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center, which celebrates the heritage of the Comanche people, and Lawton Community Theatre, which stages productions throughout the year. The city also hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its diverse community such as International Festival where cultures from all around are showcased through food, dance performances among others. Another popular event is "Arts for All", an annual festival that promotes local artists' works through exhibitions, workshops, and live performances. Education: Lawton takes great pride in its education system. It is home to Cameron University – a four-year public university serving over 5,000 students annually - making it one of Lawtons’ largest employers alongside Fort Sill. There are also several private schools within Lawton’s borders such as Eisenhower High School (named after President Dwight D Eisenhower) for grades 9-12; Holy City Catholic School catering for children from kindergarten up till grade 12; Trinity Christian Academy providing high-quality education on biblical principles among many others. Government: With a population of over 100 thousand residents according to recent census data estimates by Statista; law enforcement becomes critical in maintaining peace across this bustling urban center with more than six times that number visiting every day thanks largely due to military personnel stationed at Fort Sill or visiting family members living here locally off base. The city has a strong mayor-council form of government with seven council members elected by district along with three at-large positions who serve staggered terms while working closely under supervision from Mayor Stan Booker who was reelected into office recently during elections held last November competing against six other candidates including former incumbent Fred L Turner Jr who served the community for 16 years. The city also has a well-structured police department with over 200 officers and support staff who work tirelessly to keep Lawton safe. This has resulted in low crime rates compared to other cities of similar size, making it an ideal place to live and raise a family. Challenges: Like any growing city, Lawton faces its fair share of challenges. One of the most pressing issues is urban sprawl which is attributed to several factors including limited land availability due to Fort Sill's presence and high demand for housing from military personnel stationed at the base. This has led to the development of new housing communities on the outskirts of town, resulting in long commutes and traffic congestion. Another challenge facing Lawton is economic inequality. While the city's economy continues to grow, there are still pockets of poverty within certain neighborhoods where residents struggle financially. The local government has implemented programs aimed at addressing this issue by providing job training and affordable housing options. Conclusion: In conclusion, Lawton is a thriving city with a rich history, diverse culture, strong economy, and friendly community. Its close ties with Fort Sill have played a significant role in shaping its development while also contributing greatly to its economy. With its commitment to education and investment in arts and culture initiatives, Lawton continues to progress towards becoming an even more desirable place for people from all walks of life to call home.
Fleet boats, also known as fleet-type submarines, were a class of submarines used by the United States Navy during World War II. These vessels played a crucial role in the naval warfare of that time and proved to be an instrumental factor in securing victory for the Allies. In this paper, we will explore the history of fleet boats from their development to their eventual retirement. The concept of fleet boats emerged during the 1920s when it became evident that submarine technology had advanced enough to make them a viable option for long-range operations. The US Navy recognized the potential of these vessels and began designing larger and more powerful submarines that could operate independently or with surface ships as part of a fleet. In 1931, Admiral William V. Pratt proposed a design for such a vessel – one that could reach speeds over 20 knots on the surface and carry enough fuel and supplies for extended missions. This led to the creation of what would become known as "V-boats," named after Admiral Pratt's proposal. The first V-boat, USS Argonaut (SS-166), was commissioned in 1928 but suffered from numerous technical issues due to its experimental design. It wasn't until later models, such as USS Narwhal (SS-167) and USS Nautilus (SS-168), were introduced in 1930 that they truly showcased their capabilities. However, it wasn't until World War II broke out when these vessels truly proved their worth. Fleet boats quickly became essential tools for reconnaissance missions, anti-submarine warfare activities against enemy fleets, and supply transportation across vast distances at sea. One significant advantage of fleet boats was their size; they were significantly larger than older classes like S-class or R-class submarines which allowed them to carry more armaments while remaining stealthy underwater. They also boasted advanced machinery such as diesel-electric engines which gave them greater range compared to older models powered solely by batteries. The most notable fleet boats of World War II were the Gato-class and Balao-class submarines. These vessels, totaling over 200 in number, were built between 1941 and 1944 and became the backbone of US naval operations in the Pacific theater. One significant example of their effectiveness was Operation Barney, a mission led by USS Harder (SS-257) under Lieutenant Commander Sam Dealey. This operation involved sinking two Japanese destroyers off Truk Island without being detected or sustaining any damage – a testament to the capabilities of these vessels. Another famous fleet boat was USS Barb (SS-220), which holds the record for sinking more enemy tonnage than any other US submarine during World War II. Under Lieutenant Commander Eugene Fluckey's command, USS Barb successfully completed numerous missions throughout its service, including landing saboteurs on Japanese shores and destroying an entire train with rockets fired from its deck. Despite their successes, fleet boats also faced many challenges during World War II. They suffered heavy casualties – around 20% – due to accidents at sea or enemy fire. Additionally, they had to navigate through dangerous waters plagued with mines and torpedoes while facing fierce attacks from enemy ships and aircraft. However, despite these difficulties, fleet boats proved to be vital assets in securing victory for the Allies. Their contributions included disrupting Japan's supply lines by sinking merchant ships carrying crucial supplies such as food and fuel. Moreover, they acted as lifelines for stranded soldiers on remote islands who needed medical attention or evacuation. After World War II ended in 1945, many fleet boats were decommissioned or used for training purposes until newer models like Tang-class submarines replaced them entirely by the late 1950s. However, some continued serving even after that; one such vessel was USS Caiman (SS-323), which remained active until it was struck from naval registries in 1971. In conclusion, fleet boats were a crucial component of the US Navy's arsenal during World War II. They revolutionized submarine warfare and played a vital role in securing victory for the Allies. These vessels proved to be versatile, reliable, and highly effective in carrying out various missions at sea. Their legacy lives on as they paved the way for future generations of submarines that continue to serve in navies worldwide today.
Fleet boats, also known as V-boats or Victory ships, were a class of submarines built for the United States Navy during World War II. They played a crucial role in winning the war and shaping naval warfare tactics. The need for fleet boats emerged during World War I when German U-boats proved to be a serious threat to Allied shipping. The US Navy began planning for new submarine designs that could operate in open seas and engage enemy surface vessels. This led to the development of the "V-class" submarines, which were larger and more powerful than previous submersibles. However, it was not until after World War I that construction on these new fleet boats began due to budget constraints. In 1922, Congress authorized funding for three large submarine prototypes: USS V-1 (later renamed USS Argonaut), USS V-2 (later renamed USS Narwhal) and USS V-3 (later renamed USS Nautilus). These were followed by several other classes of fleet boats including the Barracuda class, Salmon class, Sargo class, Tambor class and Gato class. The Gato-class submarines are considered the most successful and numerous of all fleet boat designs. A total of 77 Gato-class submarines were constructed during WWII with many more variations added throughout their production run making them one of the largest single classes ever produced by any navy. These subs had an impressive range due to their large fuel tanks which allowed them to travel long distances without refueling. They also had advanced sonar systems and improved torpedo launchers compared to previous classes. Their size allowed them to carry up to 24 torpedoes as well as anti-aircraft guns on deck. One notable feature that set these fleet boats apart from earlier models was their ability to dive deeper underwater thanks to strengthened hulls made from high-strength steel alloy called HY-80. This increased depth capability gave them an advantage over German U-boats, which were limited to shallow depths. Fleet boats played a crucial role in the Pacific theater of World War II, sinking a total of 1,392 Japanese ships. They also conducted reconnaissance and covert missions along enemy coastlines and supplied guerrilla forces with weapons and supplies. After the war ended, many fleet boats were decommissioned or sold to other countries. However, some remained in service for several more decades and saw action during the Korean War and Cold War. The last fleet boat in active service with the US Navy was USS Blueback (SS-581), which was retired in 1990. Today, only a few fleet boats remain as museum ships including USS Cod (SS-224) in Cleveland, Ohio; USS Drum (SS-228) in Mobile Bay, Alabama; USS Batfish (SS-310) in Muskogee County, Oklahoma; and HMCS Ojibwa (S72) in Port Burwell, Ontario. The legacy of these powerful vessels lives on through their contributions to naval warfare tactics and their significant role in securing victory for the Allies during World War II.
Located in southwestern Oklahoma, Lawton is a city with a rich and diverse history. Its story begins long before it was officially founded in 1901, as the land was inhabited by Native American tribes for centuries before European settlers arrived. Over the years, it has undergone significant changes and played important roles in various events that have shaped the state of Oklahoma. From being home to indigenous communities to becoming one of the largest military installations in the country, Lawton's history is filled with interesting tales of resilience, growth, and cultural diversity. Native American Presence The land where Lawton stands today was originally occupied by several Native American tribes such as Comanche, Kiowa, Apache, Caddo, and Wichita. These tribes lived off the land through hunting buffalo and farming corn crops along rivers like Cache Creek. The area also served as a vital trading route between these tribes due to its strategic location near major waterways. In 1869-1870, General Philip Sheridan ordered Colonel Benjamin Grierson to establish Fort Sill on this land to protect settlers from raids by hostile Native American groups. This decision marked a significant shift in power dynamics between Native Americans and white settlers as it forced many indigenous people onto reservations. Founding of Lawton In August 1901 after Congress opened up "unassigned lands" for settlement through lottery draws known as Land Runs or Land Rushes; thousands rushed into what would become present-day Oklahoma City (April 22nd) followed shortly after by Guthrie (April 23rd). A third run took place on September 16th-18th resulting in nearly two million acres being settled overnight - including where Fort Sill stood. After much political lobbying from local leaders hoping to capitalize on this latest wave of expansion into Indian Territory; President Theodore Roosevelt issued an Executive Order on August 6th creating "Townsite Number One" which became known later as 'Lawton'. Originally 4500 acres, the townsite's first lots were sold to eager homesteaders on November 11th at a cost of $50 per lot. Growth and Development The early years of Lawton were marked by rapid growth and development as it served as a gateway for settlers heading west. The influx of people led to the establishment of businesses, schools, churches, and other institutions. In 1907, Oklahoma became a state and Lawton was chosen as one of its first municipalities. One major event that greatly influenced the city's growth was the discovery of oil in nearby areas in 1912. This sparked an oil boom that brought prosperity to Lawton and attracted even more settlers looking for work opportunities. By the late 1920s, Lawton had become known as "the Queen City" due to its thriving economy fueled by agriculture, oil production, and manufacturing industries. Military Presence Fort Sill continued to play an important role in shaping Lawton's history throughout the years. During World War II, Fort Sill served as a training center for soldiers before they were deployed overseas. It also housed German prisoners-of-war who provided labor for local farms during their internment. In addition to its military functions, Fort Sill also played a significant role in education with several schools being established on its grounds including Cameron University which opened its doors in 1908. Today Fort Sill remains one of the largest military installations in the country housing artillery units such as Field Artillery School (FAS) & Fires Center Of Excellence (FCoE). Cultural Diversity Lawton has always been home to diverse communities from various backgrounds since its founding days. As settlers arrived from different parts of the country seeking new opportunities; they brought with them their cultures and traditions enriching life within this small town creating what is today known locally simply as "the melting pot". This cultural diversity is evident through the city's numerous annual events such as the International Festival, Lawton Arts for All, and Freedom Festival. These celebrations showcase different cultures through food, music, dance, and art. Current Day Today Lawton continues to thrive as a bustling city with a population of over 97,000 people. It is home to a diverse range of industries including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare services, and tourism. Its proximity to Fort Sill also brings in significant military presence which contributes to its economy. The city has undergone many changes over the years but it still holds onto its rich history through preserved landmarks such as the Mattie Beal Home (built-in 1907) and The Museum of the Great Plains which showcases artifacts from Lawton's earliest days. In recent times there have been efforts by local leaders and organizations to revitalize downtown Lawton while preserving its historic charm. This includes renovations of old buildings into modern shops and restaurants that attract visitors from all around Oklahoma. Conclusion From being home to Native American tribes to becoming an important military installation; from being founded during an overnight Land Run event to thriving in present-day as a culturally diverse city; Lawton's history is filled with unique stories that make it stand out among other cities in Oklahoma. It serves as a testament to resilience and growth while honoring its past through preservation efforts. As we look towards the future, one can only imagine what new chapters will be added to this ever-evolving story of Lawton.
Lawton, Oklahoma has a rich and diverse history that spans over 150 years. The city was founded in 1901 as the last major town to be established in the Indian Territory before Oklahoma became a state. However, the area has been inhabited for thousands of years by various Native American tribes. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were nomadic hunter-gatherers who followed large herds of bison across the Great Plains. These groups included Apache, Comanche, Kiowa, and Wichita tribes. They lived off the land and utilized its resources for survival. In 1834, Fort Sill was established by Major General Henry Leavenworth as a military post to protect settlers from Native American attacks during westward expansion. It was named after Joshua Sill, an officer killed at Chippewa during the War of 1812. The fort played an important role in protecting travelers along the California Road and served as a base for several notable figures including Buffalo Bill Cody and Geronimo. In addition to being home to Fort Sill, Lawton also served as a reservation for several Native American tribes including Comanche, Kiowa, Apache, Caddo Nation and Delaware Nation until they were forcibly relocated by government officials through treaties signed in Medicine Lodge Creek (1867)and Washita River (1868). The establishment of railroads in Oklahoma Territory brought about rapid growth and development to Lawton. In August 1901,the Chicago Rock Island & Pacific Railway laid tracks between Chickasha,Ardmore ,Waurika ,Duncan,Cyril,Fletcher,Sterling,Rush Springs,and Lawton which facilitated trade with other cities around it . As a result,the population grew quickly,a post office was built,and businesses began springing up throughout downtown . Soon after ,the first newspaper called "The Star"was published . During World War II,Lawton's economy boomed due to the establishment of Fort Sill as a major training center for soldiers. The city served as a hub for military personnel, supplies, and equipment. After the war ended,the fort continued to play an important role in the community by providing jobs and boosting the local economy. In 1950, Lawton became home to Cameron College (now known as Cameron University), which was founded by Bill W. Burgess Jr., who also served as its first president. Today, it is one of the top public universities in Oklahoma. Throughout its history, Lawton has faced challenges such as natural disasters like tornadoes and economic downturns during times of recession. However, the city has always persevered through these difficulties with resilience and determination. Today, Lawton continues to grow and thrive with a population over 90,000 people. It is known for its cultural diversity and strong sense of community pride. The city boasts several attractions including museums dedicated to Native American culture at Fort Sill Historic Landmark & Museum,and heartland Museum . Additionally,it hosts various events throughout the year such as festivals celebrating different cultures,farmers markets,and sporting events . Lawton's history is deeply rooted in Native American heritage,cowboy culture ,and military presence . Its rich past serves as a reminder of how far it has come while also shaping its identity today.
The history of fleet boats in Lawton, Oklahoma dates back to the early 20th century when the city was still a small town. These boats played a significant role in shaping the economy and transportation system of this region, connecting it to other major ports and cities across the country. In 1901, with the establishment of Fort Sill military base, there was an increase in demand for reliable transportation systems to move troops and supplies between different locations. At that time, most of these goods were being transported by horse-drawn wagons or trains which were not efficient enough for long-distance travel. This led to the development of a new mode of transportation – fleet boats on Red River. These first fleet boats were designed as shallow-draft vessels that could navigate through narrow waterways like Red River. They were primarily used for transporting soldiers and supplies upriver from New Orleans to Fort Sill and other nearby army posts. The journey covered over 900 miles and took around two weeks to complete. During World War I, Lawton became an important hub for shipping military equipment and personnel due to its location near Fort Sill. Fleet boats played a crucial role during this time by carrying troops from various parts of the country into Camp Doniphan (now known as Camp Gruber) where they received their training before being deployed overseas. After World War I ended, many retired fleet boat captains decided to continue using their vessels for commercial purposes such as transporting cotton, lumber, oilfield equipment, and other goods along Red River. This helped boost trade in Lawton since it provided a cheaper alternative compared to rail or road transport. However, with advancements in technology after World War II such as improved roads and railways networks coupled with changes in river conditions caused by dams built upstream on Red River; fleet boat operations started declining rapidly. By 1960s most privately-owned fleets had stopped operating due to high maintenance costs associated with old boats and the decline in demand. The only remaining fleet boat company, Lawton Transportation Company (LTC), continued to operate until 1986 when it was forced out of business due to high fuel prices and lack of government subsidies. This marked the end of an era for fleet boats in Lawton. Today, there are no active fleet boat operations in Lawton; however, their legacy lives on. The city has designated a section along Red River as Fleet Boat Landing Park where visitors can learn about the history of these vessels through informational plaques and displays. Moreover, several retired fleet boats have been preserved and are displayed at different locations across Oklahoma. One notable example is the USS Batfish located at Muskogee War Memorial Park which served as a submarine chaser during World War II before being converted into a river tug after the war ended. In addition to preserving their legacy, some efforts have been made towards restoring these historic vessels back to operational status. In 2018, a group of volunteers started working on restoring one of LTC's old fleet boats – M/V Comanche Princess with plans to use it for educational tours once completed. In conclusion, while fleet boats may no longer be actively operating in Lawton today, they played a significant role in shaping its history and development. These vessels were not only used for transporting goods but also soldiers during times of war. Their contributions will always be remembered through various preservation efforts by the city and dedicated individuals who continue to keep their memory alive.
Fleet boats, also known as fleet submarines, were a class of submarine used by the United States Navy during World War II. These submarines played a significant role in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war and were instrumental in securing victory for the Allies. In this paper, we will explore the history, design, capabilities, and contributions of fleet boats to the US Navy's efforts during World War II. History: The origins of fleet boats can be traced back to 1919 when the US Navy commissioned its first large purpose-built submarine – USS Argonaut. This was followed by several experimental designs that aimed to improve upon traditional diesel-electric propulsion systems. However, it wasn't until 1931 that Admiral William V. Pratt successfully convinced Congress to fund a new class of "fleet" submarines capable of operating with surface fleets while still retaining their primary function as underwater vessels. Design: Fleet boats were larger than previous generations of submarines and had improved sea-keeping abilities due to their streamlined hulls. They could travel at higher speeds on the surface thanks to more powerful diesel engines and had an increased range due to larger fuel storage capacity. One of their most notable features was their armament. Fleet boats were equipped with six torpedo tubes mounted forward instead of four like other classes. This increase in firepower made them formidable opponents against enemy ships. Another key feature was their ability to carry scout planes onboard for reconnaissance purposes - something no other submarine class had previously been able to do. The planes would be launched via catapult from specially designed decks located aft on top of the conning tower. Capabilities: Fleet boats' primary mission was anti-shipping warfare – attacking enemy convoys carrying supplies or troops across oceans or between islands. To accomplish this task effectively, they needed speed and maneuverability which they achieved through advanced technology such as high-pressure air compressors for faster diving times and hydrodynamic design improvements allowing them greater submerged endurance. They also had a longer range than other submarines, which meant they could stay submerged for extended periods, allowing them to avoid detection and launch surprise attacks on unsuspecting enemy vessels. In addition to their anti-shipping capabilities, fleet boats were also used for intelligence gathering missions. With the ability to carry scout planes onboard, they could gather valuable information about enemy movements and report back to command headquarters. Contributions in World War II: Fleet boats played a crucial role in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters of war during World War II. In the Atlantic, they were instrumental in sinking German U-boats and disrupting supply lines between Europe and North America. They also carried out reconnaissance missions along the coast of Africa, providing valuable information that aided Allied forces in defeating Axis powers. In the Pacific theater, fleet boats were essential in crippling Japanese shipping routes by attacking convoys traveling between Japan's home islands and its conquered territories. This contributed significantly to Japan's eventual defeat as it severely hindered their ability to transport troops and supplies. One of the most notable contributions of fleet boats was Operation Barney – a mission that involved six fleet submarines working together to rescue 513 American prisoners-of-war from a Japanese prison camp located deep inland near Nagasaki. This daring operation demonstrated the versatility and effectiveness of these submarines beyond just anti-shipping warfare. Conclusion: Fleet boats revolutionized submarine warfare during World War II with their advanced technology, increased firepower, longer range capabilities, and unique ability to carry scout planes onboard. Their contributions proved invaluable in securing victory for Allied forces by disrupting enemy supply lines and conducting successful reconnaissance missions. Although advancements in technology have made fleet boats obsolete today, their legacy lives on as pioneers of modern submarine warfare tactics still used by navies around the world. The bravery and dedication displayed by those who served aboard these formidable vessels will always be remembered as an integral part of US Navy history.