Everyone talks about the Gato class, but what about the Balao class?

[AirborneTD]

Originally Posted by Barkhorn1x

The Gato was the first "modern" "Fleet" boat in US Navy inventory and was built in large numbers (73 units) - making it's impact on the war effort greater than any other class. The first Gato - which was THE Gato - made its first war patrol in April '42.

Not to nit pick, but the first Gato commissioned was the Drum (SS-228). It was the only Gato in commission on Dec 7, 41.

The Drum, Gato, Greenling and Silversides all started their first War Patrols from Pearl in Apr 42.