Intro
Explore the USS Alabama BB-60s rich history, from its World War II battles to its current status as a museum ship. Learn about this iconic battleships design, combat missions, and notable battles, including the Battle of Midway and the Gilbert Islands Campaign. Discover the USS Alabamas significance in naval history and its lasting legacy.
The USS Alabama (BB-60) is one of the most iconic battleships in American history, with a rich and storied past that spans over three decades. From its construction in the late 1930s to its decommissioning in the late 1960s, the USS Alabama played a significant role in some of the most pivotal moments of World War II and the Cold War. In this article, we will delve into the history of the USS Alabama, exploring its design, construction, and service, as well as its impact on American naval history.
Design and Construction
The USS Alabama was one of four South Dakota-class battleships built by the United States during the interwar period. Designed to be faster and more maneuverable than previous battleship classes, the South Dakota-class ships were intended to serve as the backbone of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The USS Alabama was laid down on February 1, 1940, at the Norfolk Navy Yard in Virginia, and was launched on February 16, 1942.
Specifications
- Length: 680 feet (207 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet (33 meters)
- Draft: 29 feet (8.8 meters)
- Displacement: 35,000 tons
- Speed: 28 knots (52 km/h)
- Crew: 1,793 officers and enlisted men
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch (406mm) guns, 20 x 5-inch (127mm) guns, 16 x 1.1-inch (28mm) anti-aircraft guns, 68 x 20mm anti-aircraft guns
World War II Service
The USS Alabama was commissioned on August 16, 1942, and began its shakedown cruise in the Caribbean. After completing its training, the ship joined the Pacific Fleet and played a significant role in several key battles, including the Battle of the Gilbert Islands, the Battle of the Marshall Islands, and the Battle of the Philippine Sea.
Battle of the Gilbert Islands
The USS Alabama's first major battle was the Battle of the Gilbert Islands, which took place in November 1943. As part of Task Force 50, the USS Alabama supported the invasion of Tarawa, providing gunfire support and anti-aircraft defense. The ship's guns fired over 1,000 rounds during the battle, helping to silence Japanese defenses and secure a crucial Allied victory.
Cold War Service
After the end of World War II, the USS Alabama underwent a series of modernizations and upgrades, including the installation of new radar and anti-submarine warfare systems. The ship served in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, participating in several NATO exercises and operations.
Korean War Service
During the Korean War, the USS Alabama served as a gunfire support ship, providing artillery support for United Nations forces. The ship's guns fired over 5,000 rounds during the war, helping to destroy enemy positions and secure key objectives.
Preservation and Legacy
The USS Alabama was decommissioned on January 9, 1947, and placed in reserve. In the 1960s, the ship was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register and scheduled for scrapping. However, a group of Alabama veterans and citizens formed the USS Alabama Battleship Commission to save the ship and preserve its legacy.
Today, the USS Alabama is a museum ship and memorial, located in Mobile Bay, Alabama. The ship has been restored to its World War II configuration and features a collection of military aircraft and equipment. The USS Alabama is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.
Conclusion
The USS Alabama is an iconic battleship with a rich history, spanning over three decades. From its design and construction to its service in World War II and the Cold War, the USS Alabama played a significant role in shaping American naval history. Today, the ship serves as a museum and memorial, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Call to Action
If you're interested in learning more about the USS Alabama, we encourage you to visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama. The park features the USS Alabama, as well as a collection of military aircraft and equipment. You can also explore the ship's interior, including its engine rooms, gun turrets, and crew quarters.
We hope you've enjoyed this article about the USS Alabama. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
USS Alabama Image Gallery
