1939 French Mine Laying Cruiser Pluton Explosion Press Photo


1939 French Mine Laying Cruiser Pluton Explosion Press Photo

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1939 French Mine Laying Cruiser Pluton Explosion Press Photo:
$17.50


1939 French Mine Laying Cruiser Pluton Explosion Press PhotoAs war approached, it was decided to retain her as a minelayer and most of the extra fire control equipment was removed. She was transferred to Brest as part of the reorganization of the 5e Escadre. She sailed for Casablanca, French Morocco on 2 September with 125 Bréguet mines embarked. She was ordered to lay a defensive minefield there on 4 September, but this order was rescinded the next day, after the mines had already been fuzed, and the ship was ordered to disembark the mines. While landing the mines on 13 September one of them exploded, destroying the ship and killing 186 people. A further 73 crewmen and 47 others were injured and significant damage was caused by flying debris.[16] One gun and some armor was salvaged during the war, but demolition work did not begin until October 1952 and was completed by July 1953.This is an authentic press photo from the date mentioned. THIS IS NOT A REPRINT PHOTO. See the teletype for photo details.See photos for condition details.
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1939 French Mine Laying Cruiser Pluton Explosion Press Photo:
$17.50

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