Intro
Uncover the history of USS Washington BB-56, a formidable battleship that played a pivotal role in World War II. Learn about its construction, notable battles, and impressive combat record. Discover the impact of this Iowa-class battleship on naval warfare, its crew, and the wars outcome, highlighting its significance in WWII naval history.
The USS Washington (BB-56) was a mighty battleship that served the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned on May 15, 1941, the Washington was the second ship of the North Carolina-class battleships, the first ships of the U.S. Navy to be built in accordance with the limitations of the Washington Naval Treaty of 1922. The treaty set a limit of 35,000 tons on battleship size, but the Washington-class ships were designed to be as heavily armed and armored as possible within that constraint.
The USS Washington was built at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard and was one of the most advanced battleships of its time. It was 729 feet long and had a beam of 108 feet. The ship had a top speed of 28 knots and was equipped with nine 14-inch guns, twenty 5-inch guns, and forty-eight 40mm and 20mm anti-aircraft guns. The Washington also carried three aircraft, which were used for reconnaissance and spotting.
Design and Construction
The USS Washington was designed to be a fast and heavily armed battleship, capable of engaging enemy ships and aircraft. The ship's hull was divided into 18 watertight compartments, which provided a high degree of protection against flooding in the event of damage. The Washington's armor was also state-of-the-art, with a maximum thickness of 12 inches on the belt and 6 inches on the deck.
The Washington's main armament consisted of nine 14-inch guns, mounted in three triple turrets. The guns were capable of firing a 1,500-pound shell over 36,000 yards. The ship's secondary armament consisted of twenty 5-inch guns, mounted in ten twin turrets. The 5-inch guns were used to engage enemy ships and aircraft at shorter ranges.
Main Armament
- 9 x 14-inch guns
- 20 x 5-inch guns
- 48 x 40mm anti-aircraft guns
- 20 x 20mm anti-aircraft guns
Service History
The USS Washington was commissioned on May 15, 1941, and began its service in the Atlantic Ocean. The ship participated in several convoy escort missions and was also used for training exercises. After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Washington was transferred to the Pacific Ocean, where it played a key role in several major battles.
The Washington's first major battle was the Battle of Guadalcanal, which took place in November 1942. The ship engaged several Japanese warships, including the battleship Kirishima, and helped to sink the Japanese cruiser Atago. The Washington also participated in the Battle of Tarawa, the Battle of Saipan, and the Battle of Okinawa.
Battle of Guadalcanal
- November 13-15, 1942
- Engaged Japanese warships, including the battleship Kirishima
- Helped to sink the Japanese cruiser Atago
Battle of Tarawa
- November 20-23, 1943
- Provided gunfire support for the U.S. Marine Corps invasion of Tarawa
Battle of Saipan
- June 15-24, 1944
- Provided gunfire support for the U.S. Marine Corps invasion of Saipan
Battle of Okinawa
- April 1-June 21, 1945
- Provided gunfire support for the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps invasion of Okinawa
Awards and Decorations
The USS Washington was awarded 13 battle stars for its service during World War II. The ship was also awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during the Battle of Guadalcanal.
Navy Unit Commendation
- Awarded for service during the Battle of Guadalcanal
Battle Stars
- 13 battle stars for service during World War II
Gallery of USS Washington BB-56
USS Washington BB-56 Image Gallery
Conclusion
The USS Washington (BB-56) was a mighty battleship that played a key role in several major battles during World War II. The ship's advanced design and construction made it one of the most powerful battleships of its time, and its service history is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the crew. The USS Washington was awarded 13 battle stars for its service during World War II, and its legacy continues to be celebrated by naval historians and enthusiasts today.
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