SS David McKelvy
Tanker · United States · Lost 1942 · The Gulf of Mexico
A crude oil tanker whose master died in the flames of a U-boat torpedo, while two crewmen survived a day hiding in her water tanks.
Become Captain of RecordSee Shipwreck on Map
The Vessel and Her Loss
David McKelvy was torpedoed by U-506 south of the Mississippi Delta while carrying crude oil to New York. Fire engulfed the bridge, killing the master and his officers, but survivors escaped in a lifeboat and on rafts. A salvage crew later beached the burned hulk on the Louisiana coast, where she was declared a total loss.
Vessel
- 1921
- Sun Shipbuilding Co
- Chester, Pennsylvania
- Steel
- Not established
- Not established
- 6821
- Steam, single screw
- Not established
Loss
- May 14, 1942
- Enemy action
- About 35 miles south of the mouth of the Mississippi River
- Gulf of Mexico
- New York
- 80,000 barrels of crude oil
- 42
- 17
- Carl A. Zwicker
The Wreck Today
- Not established
- Beached as a burned-out total loss after a failed salvage tow.
- Not established
- Not established
- Not established
Position
- 28.78° N 89.25° W
- Approximate position
- Mississippi River Delta, Louisiana
Evidence
Overall confidence: Documented (80/100)
Precise wreck location and present condition are not established in the sources reviewed.
uboat.net Allied Ships Hit by U-boats
Attack narrative, casualties, salvage attempt.
Naval History and Heritage Command
Photographic record and incident summary.
