7 Surprising Facts About Uss West Virginia Battleship

The USS West Virginia, a Tennessee-class battleship, played a significant role in the United States' naval history, particularly during World War II. Despite being one of the lesser-known battleships, the USS West Virginia has a rich history, marked by both triumph and tragedy. In this article, we will delve into 7 surprising facts about the USS West Virginia battleship, shedding light on its fascinating past.

1. Construction and Commissioning

The USS West Virginia (BB-48) was laid down on April 12, 1920, at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia. The battleship was launched on November 19, 1921, and commissioned on December 1, 1923. It was the third battleship to bear the name of the state of West Virginia.

Ship's Statistics

Length: 624 feet (190 meters)
Beam: 97 feet (30 meters)
Draft: 31 feet (9.4 meters)
Displacement: 32,300 tons
Speed: 21 knots (24 mph)
Crew: 1,146 officers and men

2. Pearl Harbor Attack

The USS West Virginia was one of the battleships moored at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when the Japanese launched a surprise attack. The battleship suffered significant damage, including seven torpedo hits and two bomb hits. The attack resulted in the deaths of 106 crew members, and the ship sank to the bottom of the harbor.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

The USS West Virginia was salvaged and repaired at the Pearl Harbor Navy Yard.
The battleship was rebuilt and modernized, including the installation of new anti-aircraft guns and radar systems.

3. World War II Service

After its reconstruction, the USS West Virginia rejoined the Pacific Fleet and participated in several key battles, including:

The Battle of the Philippine Sea (June 1944)
The Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 1944)
The Battle of Iwo Jima (February 1945)
The Battle of Okinawa (April 1945)

Battle Honors

The USS West Virginia earned five battle stars for its service during World War II.

4. Nuclear Testing

After the end of World War II, the USS West Virginia was assigned to the Operation Crossroads nuclear testing program. The battleship was sunk on July 25, 1946, during the Baker test, a nuclear detonation at Bikini Atoll.

Nuclear Testing Statistics

The Baker test released 21 kilotons of energy.
The explosion caused widespread damage to the surrounding area.

5. Wreckage Discovery

In 1959, the wreckage of the USS West Virginia was discovered in the Marshall Islands. The battleship's remains were found to be in relatively good condition, with many of its features still intact.

Wreckage Statistics

The wreckage is located at a depth of approximately 200 feet (61 meters).
The site has been designated as a historic landmark.

6. Memorials and Legacy

The USS West Virginia has been honored with several memorials and tributes, including:

A memorial at the West Virginia State Capitol building.
A plaque at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor.
A museum exhibit at the USS West Virginia Memorial Museum in Parkersburg, West Virginia.

Legacy Statistics

The USS West Virginia was one of the most decorated battleships of World War II.
The battleship's legacy continues to be celebrated through various tributes and memorials.

7. Final Resting Place

The wreckage of the USS West Virginia remains at the bottom of the ocean, serving as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of its crew. The battleship's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to remember the importance of patriotism and service.

Final Resting Place Statistics

The wreckage is protected by the National Historic Preservation Act.
The site is considered a sacred place for the families of the crew members who lost their lives.

USS West Virginia Battleship Image Gallery

If you have any personal stories or connections to the USS West Virginia, we invite you to share them with us in the comments below. Your experiences and memories will help keep the legacy of this battleship alive.