Intro
Uncover the legendary battles of the USS New Jersey, one of the most decorated battleships in US history. Discover the six pivotal moments when the USS New Jersey fired in battle, showcasing its prowess in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, highlighting its naval gunfire support, combat engagements, and military might.
The USS New Jersey (BB-62) is an Iowa-class battleship that served in the United States Navy from 1942 to 1991. During its long and storied career, the USS New Jersey fired its guns in battle on six separate occasions, earning a reputation as one of the most decorated battleships in American history.
The USS New Jersey's Combat History
The USS New Jersey played a significant role in several major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Its guns were fired in anger on six separate occasions, and the ship earned a total of 19 battle and campaign stars for its service.
The First Firing: World War II
The USS New Jersey's first combat action took place on December 18, 1943, during the Marshall Islands campaign in World War II. The ship was part of a task force that included several other battleships, aircraft carriers, and destroyers. The USS New Jersey fired its 16-inch guns at enemy positions on the island of Kwajalein, helping to weaken Japanese defenses and pave the way for a successful invasion.
The USS New Jersey in the Korean War
In 1950, the USS New Jersey was recalled to active duty to participate in the Korean War. The ship arrived off the coast of Korea in May 1951 and immediately began firing its guns in support of United Nations ground troops. Over the next several months, the USS New Jersey fired thousands of rounds at enemy positions, helping to turn the tide of the war.
The Second Firing: Korean War
One of the most notable actions by the USS New Jersey during the Korean War took place on May 20, 1951, when the ship fired its guns at enemy positions near the city of Wonsan. The USS New Jersey's 16-inch guns pounded North Korean artillery positions, helping to silence enemy guns and allowing United Nations troops to advance.
The USS New Jersey in the Vietnam War
In 1968, the USS New Jersey was again recalled to active duty, this time to participate in the Vietnam War. The ship arrived off the coast of Vietnam in September 1968 and immediately began firing its guns in support of ground troops. Over the next several months, the USS New Jersey fired thousands of rounds at enemy positions, helping to weaken the North Vietnamese Army.
The Third Firing: Vietnam War
One of the most notable actions by the USS New Jersey during the Vietnam War took place on January 16, 1969, when the ship fired its guns at enemy positions near the city of Dong Hoi. The USS New Jersey's 16-inch guns pounded North Vietnamese artillery positions, helping to silence enemy guns and allowing South Vietnamese troops to advance.
The Fourth Firing: Vietnam War
The USS New Jersey fired its guns again on February 24, 1969, when the ship attacked enemy positions near the city of Vinh. The USS New Jersey's 16-inch guns pounded North Vietnamese artillery positions, helping to weaken the enemy and allow South Vietnamese troops to advance.
The Fifth Firing: Vietnam War
On March 15, 1969, the USS New Jersey fired its guns at enemy positions near the city of Quang Ngai. The USS New Jersey's 16-inch guns pounded North Vietnamese artillery positions, helping to silence enemy guns and allowing South Vietnamese troops to advance.
The Sixth Firing: Lebanon Conflict
The USS New Jersey's final combat action took place on December 14, 1983, during the Lebanon conflict. The ship fired its guns at enemy positions near the city of Beirut, helping to weaken Syrian and Palestinian militias and allowing American and French troops to evacuate the city.
USS New Jersey in Action Image Gallery
We hope you enjoyed this article about the USS New Jersey's combat history. The USS New Jersey is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who served on board, and its legacy continues to inspire us today. Share your thoughts and comments below, and don't forget to like and share this article with your friends and family.