USS Cod - "Between A Rock And A Hard Place"

The USS Cod (SS-224), a Gato-class fleet submarine built by the Electric Boat Company in Groton, Connecticut, entered service late in 1943. During World War II. The Cod went on seven war patrols and was credited with sinking 14 enemy ships as well as 26 sampans and junks. During the sixth war patrol, under command of Commander James A. Adkins, USS Cod was making way on the surface of the East China Sea. At 2200 on April 26, 1945 the Cod made a surface attack on a two-ship convoy. While firing three torpedoes, a third ship was detected. Unfortunately, the torpedoes broached the surface.  The intended target apparently noticing the breached torpedoes, was able to avoid the attack and went after the Cod. Adkins went to flank speed in an attempt to outrun the pursuer however, when the shells started getting close, he took the boat down. The water depth was only 270 feet which left him little room to maneuver. Levelling off at 150 feet, the boat was rigged for silent running in preparation