On this day (9th October) WW2 Shipwreckollections

SS Oronsay (1925-1942)

The SS Oronsay was a British transport ship built in 1925 by Clyde Shipbuilding and Engineering Co. Ltd. Her last owner was Orient Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.

 

On 9th October 1942, the SS Oronsay, captained by Norman Savage was torpedoed by Italian submarine Archimede whilst serving as an auxiliary transport ship. The attack took place approximately 800 miles west-south-west of Monrovia, Liberia.

Additionally, a second torpedo was fired at the Oronsay, destroying one of the lifeboats. The majority of survivors were rescued by a British warship, however a smaller party were not rescued until five days later. Sadly, five lives were lost at sea.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society provided the survivors with £730/8s worth of financial support – the equivalent of £36,826 today.

Photo credit: www.wrecksite.eu