Intro
Explore the legendary USS West Virginia, a Tennessee-class battleship with a storied history. Discover 5 fascinating facts about this iconic warship, from its keel laying to its pivotal role in World War II and the Pacific Theater, including its heroic defense at Pearl Harbor and its remarkable resurrection.
The USS West Virginia, a Tennessee-class battleship, played a significant role in the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned in 1923, the USS West Virginia was one of the most iconic battleships of its time, known for its impressive firepower and resilience in the face of adversity. Here are five battleship USS West Virginia facts revealed:
Early Years and Design
The USS West Virginia was built at the Newport News Shipbuilding Company in Virginia and was launched on November 19, 1921. The battleship was designed to be a formidable force on the high seas, measuring 624 feet 3 inches in length and displacing over 33,000 tons of water. The USS West Virginia was powered by eight Babcock & Wilcox boilers and four sets of General Electric turbines, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 21 knots.
Armament and Armor
The USS West Virginia was heavily armed with a battery of 12 14-inch guns, 14 5-inch guns, and four 3-inch anti-aircraft guns. The battleship's main armament consisted of four turrets, each housing three 14-inch guns. The USS West Virginia's armor was also impressive, with a 13.5-inch belt and 4.5-inch deck armor.
Pearl Harbor and the Road to Recovery
On December 7, 1941, the USS West Virginia was moored at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, when the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the United States naval base. The battleship was heavily damaged, with seven torpedoes and two bombs hitting the ship. The USS West Virginia sank to the bottom of the harbor, but due to the efforts of the ship's crew and salvage teams, the battleship was eventually raised and repaired.
Recommissioning and Service
After a year of repairs, the USS West Virginia was recommissioned on September 6, 1944. The battleship went on to serve in several key battles in the Pacific Theater, including the Battle of Surigao Strait and the Battle of Lingayen Gulf. The USS West Virginia also provided gunfire support for the invasion of Okinawa.
Decommissioning and Legacy
The USS West Virginia was decommissioned on January 9, 1947, and was eventually scrapped in 1959. Despite its relatively short service life, the USS West Virginia earned five battle stars for its service in World War II. The battleship's legacy lives on, with several memorials and museums dedicated to its history.
Remembering the USS West Virginia
Today, visitors can explore the USS West Virginia Memorial in Morgantown, West Virginia, which features a large model of the battleship and several artifacts from its service. The USS West Virginia's story is also told through several books, documentaries, and online resources.
Gallery of USS West Virginia Images
USS West Virginia Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the USS West Virginia's rich history and significance. Share your thoughts and comments below, and don't forget to share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about this incredible battleship!