7 Notable American Battleships

American battleships have played a significant role in the country's naval history, serving as symbols of military power and technological innovation. From the early 20th century to the end of World War II, the United States built and operated some of the most impressive battleships in the world. Here, we'll explore seven notable American battleships that made a lasting impact on the nation's naval legacy.

USS Iowa (BB-61)

Commissioned in 1943, the USS Iowa was the lead ship of the Iowa-class battleships, which were designed to be faster and more maneuverable than their predecessors. The Iowa-class battleships were also equipped with advanced radar and gunnery systems, making them some of the most formidable warships of their time. The USS Iowa served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War, earning a total of 11 battle stars.

USS Missouri (BB-63)

The USS Missouri, also an Iowa-class battleship, is perhaps most famous for being the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, which marked the end of World War II. Commissioned in 1944, the USS Missouri served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War, earning a total of 11 battle stars. The ship's impressive service record and historical significance have made it one of the most iconic American battleships.

Design and Construction

The USS Missouri was designed to be a fast and heavily armed battleship, with a top speed of over 30 knots and a main armament of nine 16-inch guns. The ship's hull was constructed at the New York Navy Yard, and it was launched in 1944. The USS Missouri was commissioned on June 11, 1944, and it began its service in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

USS Arizona (BB-39)

The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that served in World War II. Commissioned in 1915, the USS Arizona was one of the largest and most advanced battleships of its time, with a main armament of 12 14-inch guns. The ship was sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, resulting in the loss of 1,177 lives.

Honoring the USS Arizona

The USS Arizona Memorial, which spans the length of the sunken battleship, is one of the most famous memorials in the United States. The memorial, which was dedicated in 1962, is visited by over 1 million people each year and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the crew of the USS Arizona.

USS Texas (BB-35)

The USS Texas was a New York-class battleship that served in both World War I and World War II. Commissioned in 1914, the USS Texas was one of the oldest American battleships to serve in World War II, earning a total of five battle stars. The ship is now a museum and memorial in San Jacinto, Texas.

USS North Carolina (BB-55)

The USS North Carolina was a North Carolina-class battleship that served in World War II. Commissioned in 1941, the USS North Carolina was one of the most advanced battleships of its time, with a main armament of nine 14-inch guns. The ship earned a total of 15 battle stars during its service in World War II.

USS South Dakota (BB-57)

The USS South Dakota was a South Dakota-class battleship that served in World War II. Commissioned in 1942, the USS South Dakota was one of the most heavily armed battleships of its time, with a main armament of nine 16-inch guns. The ship earned a total of 13 battle stars during its service in World War II.

USS New Jersey (BB-62)

The USS New Jersey was an Iowa-class battleship that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Commissioned in 1943, the USS New Jersey was one of the most decorated American battleships, earning a total of 19 battle stars.

Conclusion

American battleships played a crucial role in the country's naval history, serving as symbols of military power and technological innovation. The seven notable American battleships highlighted in this article are just a few examples of the many impressive warships that served in the United States Navy. From the early 20th century to the end of World War II, American battleships demonstrated their prowess in battle, earning numerous awards and decorations for their service.