ARM Cadete Francisco Márquez (C-59)
Minesweeper · Mexico · Lost 2004 · The Sea of Cortez
A World War II U.S. Navy minesweeper that later served the Mexican Navy for decades before being sunk as a dive reef off La Paz in 2004.
The Vessel and Her Loss
Built in 1944 as USS Diploma, this Admirable-class minesweeper earned three battle stars sweeping mines in the Pacific during World War II. Transferred to the Mexican Navy in 1962, she served for decades, eventually renamed ARM Cadete Francisco Márquez. After being stricken in 2000, she was cleaned and deliberately sunk off Isla Espíritu Santo near La Paz in 2004, where she now lies on her side as a popular dive site.
Vessel
- 1944
- C-59; formerly AM-221
- Tampa Shipbuilding Company
- Tampa, Florida
- Steel
- 184.5 ft
- 33 ft
- 650
- Diesel, twin screw
- United States Navy (1944–1962), Mexican Navy (1962–2000)
Loss
- January 1, 2004
- Intentional sinking
- West coast of Isla Espíritu Santo, off La Paz, Baja California Sur
- Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez)
- Not established
- Not established
- Not established
- 0
- Not established
The Wreck Today
- 59-79
- Lying on her port side, colonized by reef life
- On port side
- Not established
- Not established
Position
- 24.45° N 110.35° W
- Approximate position
- Isla Espíritu Santo, near La Paz
Approximated to the wreck's reported position off the west coast of Isla Espíritu Santo.
Evidence
Overall confidence: Documented (80/100)
Wikipedia, "USS Diploma (AM-221)", citing Naval History and Heritage Command records
Build details, U.S. Navy service, transfer to Mexico, renaming, and sinking date/location.
Underwaterphotography.com dive site record, "C59 Wreck - La Paz"
Dive depth, wreck orientation, and location details.
