Published on Thursday, 21 May 2026 at 9:21:16 AM
The City of Albany will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the United States Submariners Memorial Service on Sunday 24 May 2026, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of the American submariners who operated from the Port of Albany during World War II.
The service will commence at 10am at the ‘Still on Patrol’ Memorial at the Princess Royal Fortress, overlooking the harbour where many submarines and support vessels once sheltered during the war.
The annual service recognises Albany and Australia’s significant home-front role during World War II and pays tribute to the United States Navy submariners who undertook dangerous oceanic missions.
Following the arrival of American submariners in Fremantle in March 1942, Albany became a strategic secondary base for the fleet.
To reduce the risk of attack, the submarine tender Holland and five submarines were relocated to Albany, arriving on 17 March 1942.
During their time stationed in Albany, the two tenders Holland and Pelias supported 31 submarines that visited the port, operating from the Albany jetty and quarantine station.
Without the safe harbours of Fremantle and Albany, the success of allied submarine operations in the region would have been significantly impacted.
Mayor of Albany Greg Stocks said the milestone anniversary was an important opportunity to reflect on Albany’s wartime history and honour those who served in extraordinary conditions.
“Albany played a quiet but incredibly important role during World War II, providing a safe harbour for United States submariners at a time when the threat of war was very real on Australia’s doorstep,” Mayor Stocks said.
“This service is an opportunity for our community to recognise the courage, sacrifice and resilience of the submariners who carried out dangerous operations in some of the harshest imaginable conditions.
“By coming together at the ‘Still on Patrol’ Memorial, we ensure these stories continue to be remembered and shared with future generations.”
The service will honour the 374 officers and 3,131 crewmen who lost their lives serving aboard 52 United States submarines during World War II.
Community members are encouraged to attend the 50th anniversary of the commemorative event.
For more information, visit City of Albany Events
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