July 1, 1943 - Hull number SS-306 under construction at Mare Island Navy Yard, California.

July 1, 1943 - SS-306 under construction viewed from astern.

August 17, 1943 - The launch party for the USS Tang poses for a photograph. Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

Ship's Sponsor - Mrs. Antonio S. Pitre Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

Yard Commandant William Friedell presents the christening bottle to Mrs. Pitre. Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

In a shower of foam, Mrs. Pitre christens Tang. Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

Tang proceeds down the ways... Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

And enters the water as her builders look on. Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

Tang floats free of her launch cradle... Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.

And is slowly nudged to her berth by a tug. Two more months of fitting out await prior to her commissioning. Courtesy Steve Reichmuth, Tom Anderson & Jack Kocher.