Intro
Explore the USS Texas, a historic battleship with a rich past. Learn 7 fascinating facts about its WWI and WWII service, including its nickname, notable battles, and role in the D-Day landings. Discover its current status as a museum and memorial in San Jacinto, Texas, and its significance in American naval history.
The USS Texas, also known as the "Mighty T," is a historic battleship that played a significant role in both World War I and World War II. This iconic vessel has a rich history, and here are seven fascinating facts about it.
A Legacy of Service
The USS Texas was commissioned on March 12, 1914, as the second ship of the New York-class battleships. It was built at the Newport News Shipbuilding Company in Virginia and was designed to be a state-of-the-art battleship, with a crew of over 1,000 sailors and officers.
World War I Service
During World War I, the USS Texas served as part of the Allied forces, patrolling the North Sea and participating in several operations against the German Navy. In 1918, it escorted President Woodrow Wilson to France, where he attended the Paris Peace Conference.
Interwar Period and Modernization
Between the wars, the USS Texas underwent significant modernization, including the installation of new anti-aircraft guns and radar systems. It also participated in several naval exercises and training operations, helping to develop new tactics and strategies for the US Navy.
World War II Service
The USS Texas played a crucial role in World War II, serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. It participated in the invasion of North Africa, the D-Day landings in Normandy, and the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The ship earned five battle stars for its service during the war.
Shore Bombardment and Gunfire Support
One of the USS Texas's most significant contributions during World War II was its role in providing shore bombardment and gunfire support for Allied landings. The ship's 14-inch guns could fire shells up to 13 miles inland, making it an invaluable asset for troops advancing on enemy positions.
Post-War Decommissioning and Preservation
After the war, the USS Texas was decommissioned and eventually converted into a museum ship and memorial. It was moored on the San Jacinto River in Texas City, Texas, where it remains today as a popular tourist attraction and historic landmark.
A National Historic Landmark
In 1976, the USS Texas was designated as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significance as a historic battleship and its role in American naval history. Today, the ship is operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is open to the public for guided tours.
Design and Construction
The USS Texas was designed as a New York-class battleship, with a length of 573 feet and a beam of 95 feet. It had a top speed of 21 knots and was equipped with 10 14-inch guns, making it one of the most heavily armed battleships of its time.
Ship Specifications
- Length: 573 feet
- Beam: 95 feet
- Draft: 29 feet
- Speed: 21 knots
- Complement: 1,042 officers and men
- Armament: 10 14-inch guns, 21 5-inch guns, 2 3-inch guns, 4 21-inch torpedo tubes
Life on Board
Life on board the USS Texas was grueling and demanding, with sailors and officers working long hours in cramped and uncomfortable conditions. The ship's crew was responsible for maintaining the vessel's complex systems, including its engines, guns, and radar.
Crew Roles and Responsibilities
- Deckhands: responsible for maintaining the ship's deck and superstructure
- Gunners: responsible for operating the ship's guns and loading ammunition
- Engineers: responsible for maintaining the ship's engines and propulsion systems
- Radar operators: responsible for monitoring the ship's radar systems and detecting enemy aircraft and ships
Battles and Operations
The USS Texas participated in several battles and operations during World War II, including the invasion of North Africa, the D-Day landings in Normandy, and the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
Notable Battles and Operations
- Invasion of North Africa (1942)
- D-Day landings in Normandy (1944)
- Battle of Iwo Jima (1945)
- Battle of Okinawa (1945)
Legacy and Preservation
Today, the USS Texas is a museum ship and memorial, moored on the San Jacinto River in Texas City, Texas. The ship is operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is open to the public for guided tours.
Preservation Efforts
- The USS Texas is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- The ship is designated as a National Historic Landmark
- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department operates the ship as a museum and memorial
USS Texas Image Gallery
We hope you have enjoyed learning about the USS Texas and its rich history. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us. We would love to hear from you!