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NavSource Online: Submarine Photo Archive


Patch on left contributed by Mike Smolinski, Patch on right by Darryl L. Baker.

Grayback (SSG-574) (APSS-574)

Radio Call Sign: November - Charlie - Mike - Juliet
Grayback Class Missile Submarine: Laid down, 1 July 1954, at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo, CA.; Launched, 2 July 1957; Commissioned, USS Grayback (SSG-574), 7 March 1958; Decommissioned, 25 May 1964, at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo, CA.; Converted to a Transport Submarine and recommissioned, USS Grayback (APSS-574) in 1968; Decommissioned, 16 June 1984; Final Disposition, sunk as a target near Subic Bay, PI, 13 April 1986.

Specifications: Displacement, Surfaced: 2,670 t., Submerged: 3,638 t.; Length 322'; Beam 30' 1"; Draft 16' 4"; Speed, Surfaced 20.5 kts, Submerged 15 kts; Complement 9 Officers 75 Enlisted; Armament, up to four Regulus I missiles, or two Regulus II missiles, or two Regulus Is and one Regulus II; eight 21" torpedo tubes, 1 Regulus missile launcher; Propulsion, diesel-electric, twin propellers.
Click On Image
For Full Size		SizeImage DescriptionSource
Grayback11.8k31 photo PDF 1/4 scale mock-up of the Grayback (SSG-574) circa 1953-54.
The photos from this point down to the Construction section are in PDF format.
Cross section view of engine room.		USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback472kPort side view of engine room of Grayback (SSG-574) 1/4 scale mock-up, circa 1953-54.USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback452kStarboard side view of engine room of Grayback (SSG-574) 1/4 scale mock-up, circa 1953-54.USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback215kTorpedo handling mock-up (SS configuration) of Grayback (SSG-574), 29 June 1955. U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25829-6-55 courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback690kMk-16 Torpedo shown in horizontal position on the torpedo hoist platform in forward torpedo room of the Mare Island's mock-up of the SS configuration of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25832-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback707kMk-16 Torpedo shown being moved from the torpedo hoist platform onto the torpedo racks in forward torpedo room of the Mare Island's mock-up of the SS configuration of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25834-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback687kMk-16 Torpedo shown being moved into a torpedo tube in forward torpedo room of the Mare Island's mock-up of the SS configuration of Grayback (SSG-574). Note: Mk-10 mine aft of the Mk-16 torpedo.U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25836-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback700kMk-12 mine and a Mk-10 mine are shown on the torpedo racks in forward torpedo room of the Mare Island's mock-up of the SS configuration of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25838-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback683kMk-10 Mine is seen being handling in the forward torpedo room mock-up of Mare Island's SS configuration mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25842-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback684kMk-10 Mine is seen being placed in a torpedo tube in the forward torpedo room mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25843-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback679kMk-37 torpedo is seen being handling in the forward torpedo room mock-up of Mare Island's SS configuration mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 25844-6-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback875k Mock-up of the starboard side of the after torpedo room of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in August 1956. USN photo # 30572-8-56 courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback827k Mock-up of the starboard side of the after torpedo room (frame 192 to 018) of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in August 1956. USN photo # 30573-8-56 courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback812k Mock-up after torpedo loading trunk of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in August 1956. USN photo # 30575-8-56 courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback830k Mock-up of the port side of the after torpedo room of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in August 1956. USN photo # 30576-8-56 courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback775k After torpedo room port side frame 99 to 106 of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in August 1956. USN photo # 30580-8-56 courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.20kMk-16 torpedo is seen being loaded into the forward torpedo room mock-up of Mare Island's SSG configuration mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 32227-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback919kMk-16 Torpedo seen being loaded into the forward torpedo room of Mare Island's SSG configuration mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 32228-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback923kMk-16 Torpedo seen being loaded into the forward torpedo room of Mare Island's SSG configuration mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 32229-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.00kMk-16 Torpedo seen being loaded into the forward torpedo room of Mare Island's SSG configuration mock-up of Grayback (SSG-574). U.S. Navy / Mare Island Photo # 32230-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback925kMockup of port missile hanger with a stowed Regulus II missile (looking aft) of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in November 1956. USN photo # 32241-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback924kMockup of port missile hanger with a stowed Regulus II missile (looking forward) of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in November 1956. USN photo # 32242-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback666kMockup of port missile hanger with Reguls I on loading rail and a stowed Regulus II missile (looking forward) of Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in November 1956. USN photo # 32243-11-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback515k Mockup of a Regulus II being prepared for launching on Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in May 1957. USN photo # 34182-5-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback615k Mockup of a Regulus I on launcher on Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in May 1957. USN photo # 34241-5-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback810k1/4 Size mock up of the missile guidance center arrangement for Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in June 1957. USN photo # 34565-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback934k1/4 Size mock up of the missile guidance center arrangement for Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in June 1957. USN photo # 34566-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback852k1/4 Size mockup of the missile checkout center aboard Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in 3 June 1957. USN photo # 34568-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback820k1/4 Size mockup of the missile checkout center aboard Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in 3 June 1957. USN photo # 34569-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback574k1/4 Size mockup of the radio room aboard Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in 3 June 1957. USN photo # 34571-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback510k1/4 Size mockup of the radio room aboard Grayback (SSG-574) taken at Mare Island in 3 June 1957. USN photo # 34572-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Construction
Grayback1.10kPartial hull section of Grayback (SS-574) showing special carriage and trestle for automatic welding of frames and wing bulkheads on 19 January 1954.USN photo # 19914-1-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kInner hull sections showing positioning rollers and interior bulkheads on 11 March 1954.USN photo # 20451-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kAssembly jig for tee bar sections of inner hull frame on 11 March 1954.USN photo # 20453-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback961kGauge for framing alignment. 1 – Is the alignment gauge; 2 is the dial indicator; 29 April 1954.USN photo # 20966-4-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback570kGauges for framing alignment. 1 – Center marking device. 2 – Fiber hammer. 3 – Frame standard. 4 – Alignment gauge. 5 – Dial indicator, and 6 – Micrometer on 29 April 1954.USN photo # 20968-4-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kInstallation of interior bulkhead #72 – Inner hull section #2 on 7 May 1954.USN photo # 21031-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.00kInner hull frame being straightened and squared up in hydraulic press on 13 May 1954.USN photo # 21094-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.00kAssembling two sections of vertical and flat keel with outer shell "A" strake on 13 May 1954.USN photo # 21095-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.20kInner hull shell plates welded together for conical hull section – edges being crimped in 1000 ton press before rolling on 13 May 1954.USN photo # 21099-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kDeep floor frame being straightened in hydraulic press on 13 May 1954.USN photo # 21101-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.20kInner hull section #1 assembled with framing, wing bulkheads and floor, keel side-up on 25 May 1954.USN photo # 21204-5-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kSection #1 – stripped of cradles and staging being blocked up prior to loading on flat bed trailer on 23 June 1954.USN photo # 21733-6-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback976kSection #1 – in traveling position on flat bed trailer for transportation to building ways. Total weight 70 tons.USN photo # 21734-6-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback145kRADM F. I. Entwistle, USN, Commander, Mare Island - Vallejo Area, U.S. Naval Base San Francisco delivers principle address at the keel laying ceremony for the Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 1 July 1954. Grayback was the last diesel powered submarine built at the yard.USN photo # NY9 21864-7-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.60kHonorary keel layers of the Grayback (SSG-574) seen on the keel of the submarine at Mare Island on 1 July 1954. Left to right: Archie MacDonnel (Sheet metal Shop Master) Capt. Harlan M. Thorpe (Shipyard Production Officer) and E. E. Pozzi (Paint Shop Master).USN photo # 218698-7-54 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback124k Capt. H. M. Thorpe, USN, Production Officer Mare Island reports that "the keel is well and truly laid" for Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 1 July 1954. The Honorary Keel Layers E. E. Pozzi, Master Painter and Archie MacDonnel, Master Sheet metal Worker flank the captain.USN photo # NY9 21667-7-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback194k The speaker platform on the building ways at Mare Island on 1 July 1954 during the keel laying ceremony of Grayback (SSG-574).USN photo # NY9 21866-7-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback195kThe keel of Grayback (SSG-574) is seen on the ways the day after her official keel laying at Mare Island on 2 July 1954.USN photo # 21899-7-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback151k X11 straightening a frame for Grayback (SSG-574) in 1954.Photo MINSY 21101-5-54), courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Post Keel Laying - Commissioning
Grayback1.10kGauging frame height and alignment on tapered sections of the inner hull, 19 November 1954.USN photo # 23717-11-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.20kConical section of inner hull showing adapter rings in the cradles, 9 December 1954. USN photo # 23944-12-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback871kSixth section at ways 2, 22 December 1954. USN photo # 24040-12-54, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kTorpedo tube barrel section. Lands and liners are welded before assembly in jig on 1 February 1955.USN photo # 24404-2-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kStern room pressure hull section showing adapter wings for positioning section in cradle for welding on 18 March 1955.USN photo # 24903-3-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.20kTorpedo tube barrel, cage and breech sections in final assembly on 25 April 1955.USN photo # 25177-4-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.00kSection frame 9 to 15 ready for shipment after of disassembly bow section on 21 July 1955.USN photo # 26062-7-55,courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kTorpedo tube tubes assembly after welding (Starboard Nest)on 18 October 1955.USN photo # 26856-10-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kPort nest torpedo tube tubes ready for welding to bulkhead inserts (looking forward) showing method of marking sequence of increments on 24 October 1955.USN photo # 26923-10-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kBow torpedo tube tubes (starboard nest) – staging set-up for assembly of appendages on 30 October 1955.USN photo # 26986-10-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.10kTubes in position for installation (starboard nest) on 18 November 1955.USN photo # 27209-11-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.00kPort and starboard torpedo tubes nests installed shell plating removed (photo from port side) on 23 November 1955.USN photo # 27240-11-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback927kShell section installed around torpedo tubes nests (photo from port side) on 25 November 1955.USN photo # 27277-11-55, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.31kProgress, bow view, 11 January 1956.USN photo # NY9-27656-1-56, courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback2.37kProgress, stern view, 11 January 1956.USN photo # NY9-27657-1-56, courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback141kThe bow of Grayback (SSG-574) on the ways at Mare Island on 3 April 1956. Note that she is configured as an attack submarine at this date.USN photo # 28741-4-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback245kStern view of Grayback (SSG-574) on the ways at Mare Island on 3 April 1956. The Sargo (SSN-583) is under construction on the ways to the left.USN photo # 30139-7-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Sargo & Grayback232kSection 3 of the Sargo (SSN-583) is shown being moved up the building ways at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 19 June 1956. The Grayback (SSG-574) is shown on the building ways to the right.USN photo # NY9 29805-6-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.52kBow view of Grayback (SSG-574) on the ways at Mare Island on 5 July 1956. Note that she is configured as an attack submarine at this date. The Sargo (SSN-583) is under construction on the ways to the right. USN photo # 30138-7-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.05kProgress, stern view, 5 July 1956.USN photo # NY9-30139-7-56, courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback1.10kThe bow section (left) is being moved forward on the building ways to make way for the missile compartment at Mare Island in mid August 1956.USN photo # 30705-8-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback966k The bow section is being moved forward on the building ways to make way for the missile compartment at Mare Island in mid August 1956.USN photo # 30707-8-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.30kThe bow section is in its new place on the building ways at Mare Island in mid August 1956. Note cables to winches used to pull the section forward on the ways.USN photo # 30710-8-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.30kAft view of the bow section is in its new place on the building ways at Mare Island in mid August 1956.USN photo # 30713-8-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Sargo1.30kVarious hull sections for the Sargo (SSN-583) are shown on the building ways at Mare Island on 3 October 1956. View is looking towards the bow of the boat. Grayback (SSG-574) is alongside to the right. USN photo # 31450-10-56, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback277kBow view of Grayback (SSG-574) on the ways shown that the bow is being modified for her missile hanger at Mare Island on 9 January 1957. The Sargo (SSN-583) is under construction on the right.USN photo # 32690-1-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Sargo216k Stern view of Sargo (SSN-583) on the building ways at Mare Island on 2 April 1957. Grayback (SSG-574) is on the ways to the right.USN photo # 33742-4-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.69kProgress, bow view 1 July 1957.USN photo # NY9-334938-7-57, courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback222kStern view of Grayback (SSG-574) on the ways the day before her launching at Mare Island on 1 July 1957. The Sargo (SSN-583) is on the ways to the left.USN photo # 34939-7-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback692kGrayback (SSG-574) one day before launch.USN photo courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback596kThe spectators gathered for the launching of the Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 2 July 1957. The yard's first nuclear submarine Sargo (SSN-583) is seen on the ways to the right. U.S. Navy # NY9 35033-7-57, photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.30kGrayback (SSG-574) is seen ready for launching at Mare Island on 2 July 1957. The bow of the Sargo (SSN-583) is seen to the right.USN photo # 35041-7-57 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback117kChristening bottle (California Champagne) & case for the christening of Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 2 July 1957.USN photo # NY9 34894-6-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.60kMrs. J. A. Moore (Sponsor) is assisted by Capt. E. J. Fahy (Shipyard Production Officer) christen the Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 2 July 1957.USN photo # 35044-7-57 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback503kGrayback (SSG-574) is shown half way down the building ways at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 2 July 1957. The Sargo (SSN-583) is on the right.USN photo # NY9 35073-7-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback367kGrayback (SSG-574) is shown at the end of the building ways at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 2 July 1957. The Sargo (SSN-583) is on the right. USN photo # NY9 35061-7-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback351k(SSG-574) is waterborne after her launching at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 2 July 1957. USN photo # NY9 35063-7-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback
0857473		1.54k(SSG-574) after her launching at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 2 July 1957. Photo # 35065-7-57 VM111813 courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback103kPostal cover marking the launching of the Grayback (SSG-574) on 2 July 1957 at Mare Island Naval Shipyard.Courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback463k3 page PDF of the Launching Program of the Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 2 July 1957. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback132k On 2 July 1957, upon the occasion of the launching of the Grayback (SSG-574), the sponsor was presented with several gifts during the reception which followed the launching. Shown are RADM M. J. Lawrence (Shipyard Commander), Mrs. John A. Moore (Sponsor), Mr. I. H. Whitthorne (President of Master's and Foreman's Association), and Mr. Ernest D. Wichels (President of the Navy Yard Association). Mrs. Moore is the widow of the commanding officer of the 1st Grayback (SS-208). USN photo # NY9 35070-7-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.50k Mrs. J. A. Moore (Sponsor), RADM Martin J. Lawrence (Shipyard Commander) and Mrs. R. L. Mayo (Matron of Honor) at the reception following the launching of Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 2 July 1957.USN photo # 35072-7-57 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback132kMrs. John A. Moore, Sponsor of the Grayback (SSG-574) vists the ship in dry dock 4 at Mare Island on 3 July 1957. RADM M. J. Lawrence, USN, Shipyard Commander and Capt E. J. Fahy, USN, Production Officer are seen with her. The building in the background is the yard's machine shop. The cupola in the right corner of the picture is the periscope test tower for the optical shop which was on the top of the building. Periscopes were suspended from the ceiling and scopes head window projected into the cupola for test and calibration. USN photo # NY9 35079-7-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Sargo1.10kSargo (SSN-583) at her outfitting berth after her launching at Mare Island. Grayback (SSG-574) is aft of Sargo.USN photo # 37333-10-57 TH courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.27kProgress, bow view 17 October 1957.USN photo # NY9-37041-10-57, courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback193kAmidships looking aft plan view of Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 17 October 1957.USN photo # 37042-10-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.00kView of the bow of Grayback (SSG-574) at her outfitting berth at Mare Island on 17 December 1957. Sargo (SSN-583) is forward of Grayback.USN photo # 8078-12-57, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.30kGrayback (SSG-574) after her launching about ready to test her Regulus launcher at the southern end of Mare Island.USN photo # 40249A-7-57 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback
0857423		1.94kVentilation System 1958 for Grayback (SSG-574). This was a converted Tang/Darter class sketch. The Grayback was about 80% ready for launching when the yard cut off her bow and installed the missile hangers. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback147kThe front cover of the Commissioning Program for Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on Friday 1 March 1958. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback35k Pages 1 & 2 of the Commissioning Program for Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on Friday 1 March 1958.USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback180k Back cover of the Commissioning Program for Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on Friday 1 March 1958 which list the ship's company at the time of commissioning. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback117k This is the "Diagram for commissioning Grayback (SSG-574)" at Mare Island on 7 March 1958. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.30kGrayback (SSG-574) being moved to her commissioning berth at Mare Island on 7 March 1958.USN photo # 38408-3-58 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback2.54kA view of the commissioning ceremonies of the Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island on 7 March 1958.USN photo # 38414-3-58 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback427kOfficers and crew of the Grayback (SSG-574) at her commissioning ceremony, 7 March 1958.USN photo courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback242kThe colors are raised for the first time aboard Grayback (SSG-574) during her commissioning ceremonies at Mare Island on 7 March 1958. USN photo # 38419-3-58, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback196kThe newly commissioned Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island. Photo i.d. courtesy of Roy Williams MT2, USS Boston CAG-1 7th div.
US National Archives photo # 80G 1035994, from NARA, College Park, Maryland, courtesy of Sean Hert.
Grayback638kLCDR Hugh G. Nott with his family the day after the commissioning of Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island.USN photo courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.15kRegulus I exhaust engulfs the water near the Grayback (SSG-574) on 18 March 1958.USN photo courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Service - Sinking (1986)
Grayback433kA SSG version model of the Grayback (SS-574) featuring a Regulus II missile. Photo courtesy of Mel Douyette & coldwarsubmarines.com.
Grayback406kA "LPSS" version model of the Grayback (SS-574). Photo courtesy of Mel Douyette & coldwarsubmarines.com.
Grayback620kGrayback (SSG)-574) is spelled with an "E".Photo courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback217kGrayback (SSG-574) surface view, 5 August 1958.Mare Island Navy Yard Ship Files, NARA San Francisco, Photo # NY9-40508-8-58, courtesy of Tracy White @ Researcher @ Large.
Grayback176kGrayback (SSG-574) surface view, 5 August 1958.Mare Island Navy Yard Ship Files, NARA San Francisco, Photo # NY9-40489-8-58, courtesy of Tracy White @ Researcher @ Large.
Grayback103kThis is a periscope's view of the Grayback (SSG-574) surfacing and launching a Regulus 1 missile. The total surface-to-launch sequence was about eight seconds. USN photo courtesy of The American Submarine, by Norman Polmar & submitted by Robert Hurst.
Grayback3.53kThe first Regulus II Missile to be fired from a submarine is moved into its hangar on deck of Grayback (SSG-574) in preparation for firing. USN photo # USN 710243, courtesy of the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, via flickr.com.
Grayback3.97kGrayback (SSG-574), during preparations for the only submarine firing of the Regulus II missile. The missile is on the launching ramp, but the submarine's port hangar door is still raised.text courtesy of The American Submarine, by Norman Polmar & submitted by Robert Hurst.
USN photo # USN 710242, courtesy of the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, via flickr.com.
Grayback1.94kThe first Regulus II Missile to be fired from a submarine is moved into its hangar on deck of Grayback (SSG-574) in preparation for firing. The missile, built by Chance Vought aircraft, was fired from sea to Edwards Air Force Base, California. In the first test of its capability of being fired from submarines at sea against inland targets, Regulus II was flown some 200 miles. Its wings and rudder can be folded to facilitate its storage in the submarine hangar. A supersonic missile, the Regulus II flies at speeds greater than Mach 2. USN photo # USN 710241, courtesy of the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, via flickr.com.
Grayback1.62kGrayback (SSG-574), preparing to launch a Regulus II missile.Photo i.d. courtesy of Roy Williams MT2, USS Boston,7th Div,US Navy.
USN photo courtesy of George M. Arnold.
Grayback761kGrayback (SSG-574), preparing to launch a Regulus I missile, 16 September 1958.
The difference between Regulus 1 & Regulus 2 are Regulus 1 has blunt front end for air intake to jet engine, Regulus 2 has pointed front end as Jet engine intake is under missile about 1/2 way back.		Text i.d. courtesy of Roy Williams MT2, USS Boston, 7th Div, US Navy.
USN photo courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback843kA close-up image of a Regulus 2 missile ready for launch aboard Grayback (SSG-574).Text i.d. courtesy of Roy Williams MT2, USS Boston, 7th Div, US Navy.
USN photo from Strike from beneath The Sea: A History of Aircraft-carrying Submarines" by Terry C. Treadwell, The History Press, The Mill, Brimscombe Port, Stroud, Gloucestershire. ISBN 978 0 7524 5243 2.
Grayback63kGrayback (SSG-574) launches a Regulus II supersonic missile, 16 September 1958. USN photo courtesy of Robert Hurst.
Grayback1.86kGrayback (SSG-574) comes to Sierra 8 on 8 November 1958.USN photo # NY9-27657-1-56, courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback413kGrayback (SSG-574) in Honolulu, 1959. Photograph by Charles Hansen.
Grayback68kGrayback (SSG-574), in San Francisco, Bay, circa 1960.USN photo, courtesy of George M. Arnold.
Regulus Deterrent Patrols1.30kRegulus Deterrent Patrols by the following submarines from September 1959 to July 1964:
Tunny (SSG-282),
Barbero (SSG-317),
Grayback (SSG-574),
Growler (SSG-577),&
Halibut (SSGN-587). 		Photograph courtesy of Ron Phillipi.
Grayback973kCommendations were presented to Grayback (SSG-574) crew members for saving other crew members during an electrical fire on the sub on 21 May 1964 at Mare Island. Left to right: LT Wayne R. Campbell, EM2 Louis K. Valpoon, Capt. Frank M. Smith, LCDR W. J. Gunn Grayback's Skipper, HM1 Eugene R. Ennis and QMC Arthur H. Norton.USN photo # 62912-5-64 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Growler & Grayback76kGrayback (SSG-574) and Growler (SSG-577) alongside each other at Mare Island shortly before both boats were decommissioned on 25 May 1964 and were placed in reserve. Photo courtesy of Robert Hurst.
Photo i.d. courtesy of Darrly Baker.
Moray 239k Moray (SS-300) & Grayback (SSG-574) at Mare Island, 1966. Photo courtesy of John Hummel, USN (Retired).
Grayback497kGrayback (SSG-574) and Growler (SSG-577) alongside each other.USN photo courtesy of Scott Koen & ussnewyork.com.
Grayback44kGrayback (SSG-574) in the sunset looking like she has been split in half.Courtesy of George M. Arnold.
Grayback227kGrayback (SSG-574) in ARD 10 at the Mare Island Reserve Fleet, 16 July 1965 while being converted to a submarine troop transport. Text i.d. courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Mare Island Navy Yard Ship Files, NARA San Francisco, Photo # 69045, courtesy of Tracy White @ Researcher @ Large.
Growler4.12k Aerial photo of the Mare Island Reserve Fleet taken 25 November 1966 shown Growler (SSG-577), six old fleet boats, Bass (SSK-2),Bonita (SSK-3), Grayback (SSG-574) and another fleet boat. The Pelias (AS-14) is the sub tender located with the submarines. Photograph courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback150kGrayback (LPSS-574) is shown as she departed dry dock 4 at Mare Island during her conversion to a SEAL team deliver platform, 1/20/1969. She had been in the same dock since 1 November 1967. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.90kThis is a clipping from the issue of the shipyard's newspaper the "Tie Line" which appeared shortly before the Grayback (LPSS-574) was recommissioned following her conversion to a SEAL team deliver platform. USN photo # 77099-4-67 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback815kLCDR Dudley L. Carlson reads his orders placing him in command of the newly re-commissioning of Grayback (APSS-574) at Mare Island on 9 May 1969. USN photo # 91480-5-69 TH, courtesy of Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback30k The scene at the recommissioning of the Grayback (LPSS-574) at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 9 May 1969. This is a clipping from the 16 May 1969 issue of the shipyard's newspaper the "Tie Line". USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback200kFirst day issue of Grayback (LPSS-574) recommissioning at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 9 May 1969.Courtesy of John Hyatt.
Grayback34k The commissioning party aboard Grayback (LPSS-574) at her recommissioning at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 9 May 1969. This is a clipping from the 16 May 1969 issue of the shipyard's newspaper the "Tie Line". USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback337k Broadside view of the Grayback (LPSS-574) off Mare Island shortly after her recommissioning, 24 July 1969. USN photo # NY9 93276-7-69, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback331kBow view of the Grayback (LPSS-574) off Mare Island shortly after her recommissioning, 24 July 1969. USN photo # NY9 93279-7-69, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback315k45 degree off centerline view of the Grayback (LPSS-574) off Mare Island shortly after her recommissioning, 24 July 1969. USN photo # NY9 93282-7-69, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback226kStern view of the Grayback (LPSS-574) off Mare Island shortly after her recommissioning, 24 July 1969. USN photo # NY9 93291-7-69, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback156kThis is the historic data plate made to commemorate the recommissioning of the Grayback (LPSS-574), 25 July 1969 and in memoriam of the first Grayback (SS-208), lost to enemy action, sunk by Japanese carrier based aircraft and anti-submarine surface units, 27 February 1944 in the East China Sea. USN photo # MSA 93334-7-69, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback387kPhoto of the large forward hatches aboard the Grayback (LPSS-574), taken from the sail, at Mare Island Naval Shipyard on 31 July 1969. USN photo # NY9 93359-7-69, courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Grayback1.45kGrayback (LPSS-574) at dock, circa 20 September 1969.Photo # AM1506-S3-3-: CVA 447-4852 courtesy of Walter E. Frost via searcharchives.vancouver.ca courtesy of John Hummel, USN (Retired).
Grayback200k Grayback (LPSS-574) at Subic Bay, Philippines in 1970 before underway ops. SEAL's on pier. Right side of submarine = open hanger doors & ships diver. Courtesy of John Hyatt.
Pampanito and Grayback 145k Bow view of an unknown Guppy, approximately 1970 at Mare Island. The boat to the left of the Guppy is the Growler (SSG-577). The boat to the right of the Guppy most likely Raton (SSR-270). Other ships identifiable in the background are the Canberra (CA-70), Litchfield County (LST-901), and Sedgwick County (LST-1123). Text info courtesy of David Johnston
USN photo courtesy of ussubvetsofwwii.org.
Grayback308kThree of one of a kind: Blueback (SS-581), Darter (SS-576) & Grayback (SSG-574), some where at some time. Photo courtesy of John Hummel, USN (Retired).
Grayback101kThe Tangs (SS-563/68) introduced the first postwar long-range passive sonar, BQR-3, in a chin dome. This BQR-2B dome is on board the missile submarine Grayback (LPSS-574), December 1977. Photo & text courtesy of U.S. Submarines Since 1945, An Illustrated Design History by Norman Friedman & James L. Christley. Naval Institute Press.
Grayback370kAerial port quarter view of the attack submarine Grayback (SS-574) underway, 14 January 1982. Defense Visual Information Center photo # DN-ST-86-01652, by PH1 S. Smith, from the Department of Defense Still Media Collection, courtesy of dodmedia.osd.mil.
Grayback350kAerial starboard view of the attack submarine Grayback (SS-574) underway, 14 January 1982. Defense Visual Information Center photo # DN-ST-86-01653, by PH1 S. Smith, from the Department of Defense Still Media Collection, courtesy of dodmedia.osd.mil.
Grayback374kHigh angle stern view of the attack submarine Grayback (SS-574) underway, 14 January 1982. Defense Visual Information Center photo # DN-ST-86-01654, by PH1 S. Smith, from the Department of Defense Still Media Collection, courtesy of dodmedia.osd.mil.
Grayback265kAerial port bow view of the attack submarine Grayback (SS-574), 14 January 1982. Defense Visual Information Center photo # DN-ST-86-01655, by PH1 S. Smith, from the Department of Defense Still Media Collection, courtesy of dodmedia.osd.mil.
Grayback199kCommemorative photo honoring the memory of the crew of the Grayback (SSG-574) who died in a diving chamber accident on 16 January 1982.Photo courtesy of Raymond Fritz. ET1(SS).
Grayback14k Commemorative postal cover marking the first Grayback (SS-208) and the second Grayback (LPSS-574), on 21 June 1982.Courtesy of Jack Treutle (of blessed memory).
Grayback213kThe Grayback (LPSS-574) in April 1985 as she sat tied up at SRF Subic Bay, RP. View from the Pogy (SSN-647), which had made a port visit to the Philippines while on Westpac. Photo courtesy of John MacKay.
Grayback214kThe Grayback (LPSS-574) looking forlorn in April 1985 as she sat tied up at SRF Subic Bay, RP. Photo courtesy of John MacKay.
Grayback251kThe USNS Catawba (ATF-168) is seen towing the Ex-Grayback (LPSS-574) out of Subic Bay on 13 August 1986. The Grayback was painted orange for an impending sink excise. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Tolling The Boats 147k Active duty and veteran submariners stand together at the 29th annual "Tolling The Boats" Memorial Service held at the World War II National Submarine Memorial-West, Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, Calif. 29 May 2006. The ceremony honored members of the Silent Service who gave their lives during World War II and the Cold War for their country and the cause of freedom.
6 Grayback (LPSS-574) crewmen died (one man died in ship-board fire, five lost in diving chamber accident)during the Cold War.		USN photo # N-1159B-052 by Journalist 1st Class Brian Brannon, courtesy of navy.news.mil. Partial text courtesy of oneternalpatrol.com.
View the Grayback (SSG-574 / APSS-574)
DANFS history entry located on the Haze Gray & Underway Web Site.
Crew Contact And Reunion Information
U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation
Fleet Reserve Association
Additional Resources and Web Sites of Interest
On Eternal Patrol
Regulus; U.S. Navy's first nuclear missile submarines.
United States Submarine Veterans, Inc. Grayback Base
Historic Naval Ships Association
Guppy Submarines
HISTORIC SUBMARINE DOCUMENTARY AND TRAINING FILMS
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