The greatest submarine rescue in history was aided by United States Navy divers like Coxswain Francis H. O’Keefe. O’Keefe was a diver first class in 1939 and was stationed onboard the USS Falcon. The Falcon was the primary rescue ship carrying divers, equipment and the diving bell that would bring 33 Squalus crew members to the surface.

F.H. O’Keefe was actually the first diver on May 27th to test the Mark V helium rig on site. He would go down to fifty feet for fifteen minutes and return safely. O’Keefe would note in his dive log that a tender scraped his nose when putting the helmet bonnet on. Unlike the standard Mark V helmet, the helium Mark V bonnets were much heaver!

O’Keefe would go on to be awarded the Navy Cross for his bravery and service in helping with the rescue of the USS Squalus. Please see newspaper photo and caption of divers receiving the award (newspaper clipping not included) He was also presented with this US Navy divers knife that was specially engraved to him!

The knife is the classic Mark V divers knife with stainless steel blade, brass sheath and wood handle. The knife was made by the Batteryless Telephone Company (BTE) and is stamped as such on the sheath. USN dive knives made by BTE are relatively rare today and it is just luck this knife was chosen to be presented to Coxswain O’Keefe.

Engraved on the brass sheath is the following:
SQUALUS SALVAGE UNIT
MAY 23, 1939
TO
SEPT. 15, 1939
F.H. O’KEEFE, COX., USN
DIVER FIRST CLASS

The knife itself is in very good condition with age showing on the brass sheath. The engraving is all very clear and sharp. The stainless blade is very presentable but appears to have been cleaned with very light scratches evident.

Without a doubt, this knife is 100% authentic and rare piece of USN diving and USS Squalus history. Worthy of any museum or collection in the world, this prized presentation piece will take any collection to another level.

All items will be shipped with a signature required upon delivery and full insurance either via FedEx or the USPS Priority Mail. Worldwide shipping is available; however, no ocean freight will be offered on large items. DHL express is an option for international shipments under 600 pounds via air. A shipping quote prior to the auction can be provided by emailing your postal code.