The HMS Hermes was a British aircraft carrier that served in the Royal Navy during World War II. It had a long and storied history, but unfortunately, it met its end in a tragic way.
On April 9, 1942, the HMS Hermes was anchored off the coast of Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon) along with other ships of the British Eastern Fleet. The fleet was on high alert due to reports of Japanese naval activity in the area. Despite this warning, the fleet was caught off guard when Japanese carrier-based aircraft launched a surprise attack.
The attack began early in the morning and Targeted both the HMS Hermes and its accompanying destroyer, the HMAS Vampire. The Japanese planes were armed with torpedoes and bombs which they dropped on both ships. The HMS Hermes took two direct hits from bombs which caused catastrophic damage to its flight deck and hangar deck.
Despite valiant efforts by the crew to save their ship, it quickly became clear that there was no hope of saving her. The order was given to abandon ship, and within minutes the HMS Hermes sank beneath the waves.
The sinking of the HMS Hermes was a devastating blow to the Royal Navy. It was not only one of their largest carriers but also one of their oldest – having been commissioned in 1924. It had served with distinction during World War II up until its final moments.
Today, the wreckage of the HMS Hermes rests at a depth of around 53 meters (174 feet) off Batticaloa on Sri Lanka’s eastern coast. It is now considered a war grave and protected under Sri Lankan law.
In conclusion, while there are many significant events that occurred during World War II, few are as tragic as the sinking of HMS Hermes. Its loss marked not only an important military defeat for Britain but also represented a terrible loss of life for those who served aboard her. Despite this tragedy, we must remember and honor the brave sailors who served on the HMS Hermes and all of those who fought in World War II.