Intro
Discover the USS New Jerseys rich history through stunning pictures and detailed accounts. This iconic battleships storied past includes WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War deployments. Learn about its impressive armament, notable battles, and legendary status as a Big J or Black Dragon. Explore the ships legacy and restoration efforts.
The USS New Jersey (BB-62) is one of the most iconic battleships in the history of the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1943, the USS New Jersey served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning a reputation as one of the most decorated battleships in U.S. naval history. With a career spanning over four decades, the USS New Jersey played a significant role in shaping the course of American military history.
The USS New Jersey was a member of the Iowa-class battleships, designed to be fast and heavily armed. With a length of 860 feet and a beam of 108 feet, the USS New Jersey was a formidable presence on the high seas. Its nine 16-inch guns, twenty 5-inch guns, and numerous anti-aircraft guns made it a force to be reckoned with. The battleship's advanced radar and fire control systems allowed it to engage targets with precision and accuracy.
Early Years and World War II
The USS New Jersey was commissioned on May 23, 1943, at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. After a brief shakedown cruise, the battleship set sail for the Pacific, where it would play a crucial role in the war against Japan. The USS New Jersey's first combat operation was the Marshall Islands campaign, where it provided gunfire support for the invasion of the islands.
Throughout the war, the USS New Jersey participated in numerous battles and campaigns, including the Philippine Sea, Leyte Gulf, and Okinawa. Its guns pounded enemy positions, sinking ships and destroying installations. The battleship earned numerous awards and accolades for its service, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation.
Korean War and Vietnam War
After World War II, the USS New Jersey was decommissioned and placed in reserve. However, with the outbreak of the Korean War, the battleship was recommissioned and sent to the front lines. The USS New Jersey provided gunfire support for United Nations forces, pounding enemy positions and destroying infrastructure.
The USS New Jersey also saw action in the Vietnam War, providing gunfire support for U.S. and South Vietnamese forces. The battleship's guns pounded enemy positions, destroying supply lines and infrastructure.
Awards and Legacy
The USS New Jersey earned a total of 19 battle and campaign stars for its service in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The battleship was also awarded the Navy Unit Commendation, the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, and the Korean Presidential Unit Citation.
Today, the USS New Jersey is a museum ship and memorial, moored on the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey. The battleship is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who served on board, and its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Museum Ship and Memorial
The USS New Jersey was decommissioned for the final time in 1991 and was subsequently donated to the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial. The museum ship is open to the public and offers guided tours of the battleship's deck and interior.
Visitors can explore the battleship's gun turrets, engine rooms, and even the captain's quarters. The museum ship also features a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history of the USS New Jersey and its role in American military history.
Restoration and Preservation
The Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial is dedicated to preserving the USS New Jersey for future generations. The museum ship undergoes regular restoration and maintenance to ensure its continued preservation.
The museum ship also offers educational programs and events, promoting the history and legacy of the USS New Jersey.
USS New Jersey Battleship Image Gallery
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