Today marks the 79th anniversary of the sinking of the SS President Coolidge off the south east coast of Espiritu Santo.
Each year, the South Pacific WWII Museum recognises this remarkable moment in Santo’s history with a short service at the Elwood J Euart memorial, across the road from where the ship sank and still lies today.
Elwood J Euart was the US Army Captain who lost his life going back into the sinking ship to rescue soldiers he believed were still down in the lower decks of the ship. After getting the last of the survivors to safety, Captain Euart was too weak to get himself out and sadly went down with the ship. Only he and engine Fireman Robert Read died in the tragedy. The 5000 troops on board, all made it to shore.
The charitable organisation behind the Museum project is named the Elwood J Euart Association in memory of Captain Euart.
Next year will be a very special time on Santo as we mark the 80th anniversary of the sinking of the Coolidge. Much is already being planned for that event, including what we hope will be a spectacular unveiling to mark this important occasion. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy these images from today.
