USS San Francisco (SSN-711) in drydock after hitting underwater mountain

At 12 noon, January 8 2005, Guam Time, the USS SAN FRANCISCO, SSN-711, hit an uncharted undersea mountain while travelling at high speed about 500 ft below surface. The submarine was able to surface and head back to Guam. One critically injured sailor died January 9, while 23 other crewmen are treated for injuries by SEAL medical personnel that came aboard January 9. On its way back to Guam, the SAN FRANCISCO was escorted by USNS GYSGT FRED W. STOCKHAM (T-AK 3017) and USCGC GALVESTON ISLAND (WPB 1349). USNS KISKA (T-AE 35) as well as military aircraft stood by to assist if required.

USS SAN FRANCISCO arrived at Guam the afternoon of January 10. There were no reports of damage to the reactor plant which is operating normally.