Intro
Explore the USS Texas BB-35, the last dreadnought battleship in the US Navy. Commissioned in 1914, this historic warship played a significant role in both World Wars, earning five battle stars. Discover its innovative design, impressive armament, and remarkable service history, making it a legendary symbol of American naval power and a testament to the evolution of battleship technology.
The USS Texas BB-35, the last remaining dreadnought battleship, is a testament to the maritime history of the United States. Commissioned in 1914, the USS Texas served in both World War I and World War II, playing a significant role in the Allied victory. As the last of its kind, the USS Texas has become a symbol of a bygone era, a reminder of the power and grandeur of the early 20th-century battleships.
The USS Texas was one of two New York-class battleships built by the United States Navy. The ship's design was influenced by the British Royal Navy's Dreadnought, which revolutionized battleship design with its all-big-gun main armament. The USS Texas was armed with ten 14-inch guns, making it one of the most heavily armed ships of its time. Its impressive firepower, combined with its speed and maneuverability, made it a formidable opponent on the high seas.
Early Years and World War I
Commissioned on March 12, 1914, the USS Texas began its service as a part of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. The ship participated in various exercises and training maneuvers, including a trip to Europe in 1914, where it represented the United States at the annual British Naval Review. When the United States entered World War I, the USS Texas was assigned to the Grand Fleet, where it played a supporting role in various operations, including convoy escort duties.
Interwar Period and Modernization
After the end of World War I, the USS Texas underwent a significant modernization, which included the installation of anti-torpedo bulges and the replacement of its original coal-fired boilers with oil-fired boilers. The ship also received a new superstructure, which improved its command and control capabilities. These modifications allowed the USS Texas to remain a viable warship, despite the changing naval landscape of the interwar period.
World War II
The USS Texas played a significant role in World War II, participating in various operations in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. The ship provided naval gunfire support during the Allied invasion of North Africa, as well as during the invasion of Normandy on D-Day. In the Pacific, the USS Texas supported the invasion of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, providing vital gunfire support to the ground troops.
<h3<Post-War Service and Decommissioning
After the end of World War II, the USS Texas was decommissioned and converted into a memorial ship. The ship was donated to the state of Texas and is now a museum ship and memorial, located near the San Jacinto Monument in La Porte, Texas. The USS Texas remains a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the sailors who served on board, as well as a reminder of the significance of the dreadnought battleships in naval history.
Gallery of USS Texas BB-35
USS Texas BB-35 Image Gallery
As we reflect on the history of the USS Texas BB-35, we are reminded of the bravery and sacrifice of the sailors who served on board. The ship's legacy serves as a testament to the importance of naval power in defending our nation's interests and protecting our freedom. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the USS Texas BB-35, please feel free to comment below or share this article with your friends and family.