Intro
Explore the historic USS Wisconsin Museum Ship, a battleship that served in WWII, Korea, and the Gulf War. Discover its rich history, technological innovations, and notable battles. Take a virtual tour and learn about its preservation as a museum and memorial in Norfolk, Virginia, showcasing naval warfare and American patriotism.
The USS Wisconsin (BB-64) is a battleship that served in three major wars: World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. Today, it is a museum ship and memorial in Norfolk, Virginia, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of the United States Navy. As we embark on a tour of this incredible vessel, we'll delve into its rich history, exploring its construction, service, and significance.
Construction and Commissioning
The USS Wisconsin was built at the Philadelphia Navy Yard and commissioned on April 16, 1944. It was the third ship to bear the name Wisconsin, following the BB-9 and the BB-50, which were both decommissioned before the new battleship's construction began. The USS Wisconsin was the second of the Iowa-class battleships, designed to be faster and more maneuverable than its predecessors.
Iowa-Class Battleships
The Iowa-class battleships were a new generation of warships designed to combine speed, firepower, and armor. The class consisted of six ships: USS Iowa (BB-61), USS New Jersey (BB-62), USS Missouri (BB-63), USS Wisconsin (BB-64), USS Illinois (BB-65), and USS Kentucky (BB-66). The USS Wisconsin was constructed with a length of 887 feet 3 inches, a beam of 108 feet 2 inches, and a draft of 28 feet 11 inches. It had a displacement of 45,000 tons and was powered by eight Babcock & Wilcox boilers and four propellers, which gave it a top speed of 33 knots.
World War II Service
The USS Wisconsin played a significant role in World War II, serving in the Pacific Theater. It was commissioned in April 1944, and after a shakedown cruise, it sailed to the Pacific, where it joined the Third Fleet. The battleship participated in several key battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Battle of Okinawa.
Supporting Amphibious Landings
The USS Wisconsin provided gunfire support for several amphibious landings, including the Battle of Iwo Jima and the Battle of Okinawa. During these battles, the battleship's 16-inch guns fired thousands of rounds, helping to soften enemy defenses and clear the way for the invasion forces.
Korean War Service
After World War II, the USS Wisconsin was decommissioned and placed in reserve. However, with the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, the battleship was reactivated and modernized. The USS Wisconsin served in the Korean War from 1951 to 1954, providing gunfire support for United Nations forces.
Naval Gunfire Support
The USS Wisconsin's 16-inch guns played a crucial role in the Korean War, providing naval gunfire support for ground troops. The battleship fired thousands of rounds, helping to destroy enemy positions and supply lines.
Gulf War Service
The USS Wisconsin was reactivated again in 1986 and modernized with new systems, including Tomahawk cruise missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. During the Gulf War in 1991, the battleship served as part of the Middle East Force, providing gunfire support for the liberation of Kuwait.
Tactical Tomahawk Missiles
The USS Wisconsin fired 24 Tomahawk cruise missiles during the Gulf War, making it one of the first battleships to use these missiles in combat. The Tomahawk missiles were used to attack enemy targets, including command centers, airfields, and supply depots.
Museum Ship and Memorial
After its final decommissioning in 1991, the USS Wisconsin was donated to the City of Norfolk, Virginia, where it was converted into a museum ship and memorial. Today, the battleship is part of the Nauticus National Maritime Center and offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its deck and interior.
Restoration and Preservation
The USS Wisconsin has undergone several restoration and preservation projects to maintain its condition and ensure its continued survival. The battleship's hull and superstructure have been repaired, and its interior has been restored to its original condition.
Gallery of USS Wisconsin
USS Wisconsin Image Gallery
The USS Wisconsin is an incredible piece of American history, and its museum ship and memorial in Norfolk, Virginia, offer a unique glimpse into the past. As we reflect on the battleship's service and significance, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our nation's maritime heritage.
We hope you have enjoyed this tour of the USS Wisconsin and its rich history. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.