However, on 1 June 1943, during its maiden voyage John Morgan collided with the tanker off Cape Henry on the coast of Virginia. John Morgan broke in two and sank immediately at position, but started fires aboard Montana., engaged in gunnery practice in Chesapeake Bay, was sent to investigate. She sent a party aboard Montana to assist in extinguishing the fires, but recalled them after discovering that Montana was also carrying ammunition. Soon afterwards and arrived, and circled the area looking for survivors, but recovered only 12 bodies.[2]
The ship lies in approximately 110feet of water. It is largely broken up, but the bow and a structure known as the "hospital" are still recognizable. The ship was on the United States lend-lease program and was loaded with war supplies such as Valentine tanks, P-39s, and large amounts of ammunition.[3]