On this day (19th July) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Justicia (1914-1918)

SS Justicia was a British troopship built in 1914 by Harland & Wolff Ltd., Belfast. Before completion, Justicia was acquired by the British government and operated by the White Star Line.

On 19 July 1918, whilst travelling unladen from Belfast to New York, 23 miles south of Skerryvore, Scotland, the Justicia was torpedoed by a German U-boat under the command of Otto von Schrader. Despite being struck by four torpedoes, the steamer of 32,234 tonnes remained afloat, allowing the majority of those on board to evacuate.

The following day, two more torpedoed were fired at the Justicia, causing her to finally sink with the loss of 16 lives.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has offered assistance for fishermen and mariners in need since 1839. The maritime charity provides help for mariners, retired seafarers and their dependants, through financial help including welfare grants, as well as assistance and support.

Photo credit: wrecksite.eu