Discovery and Archaeological Characterization of the Wreck of ex-USS Stewart (DD-224) in Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary

A survey for the wreck of the former U.S. Navy destroyer Stewart (DD-224) was conducted during a test of autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) systems in the waters of Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, off the central California coast of the United States, in August 2024. The wreck of the destroyer was discovered less than 4 miles from its reported sinking position. The intact wreck is an artifact of the period between both world wars, of World War II, and of a career as a warship for both the United States and Japan. The August 2024 archaeological assessment of the wreck confirmed its identity and documented aspects of its modifications following capture by Japanese forces and stripping before its ceremonial “burial” at sea after its repatriation at war’s end, as well as the forensics of its disposal.