FW Abrams

3D Model

On June 2, 1942, F.W. Abrams left Aruba, traveling unarmed and alone, carrying over 90,000 barrels of crude oil with a destination of New York City. On June 10, 1942, F.W. Abrams sought refuge in the minefield that had been created to offer Allied vessels safety from German U-boats patrolling off Cape Hatteras, N.C.

During the transit out of the minefield, F.W. Abrams lost sight of the escort in a heavy rain and made a change of course when an explosion rocked the ship from the starboard bow at 6:40 am. Drifting northward, the tanker was hit in the pump room thirty minutes later, as another explosion rocked the bow. Of the 36 person crew, all were safely rescued and taken to Ocracoke Island, N.C. Only one sailor sustained injuries.

Credit: NOAA/Monitor NMS