Intro
Explore the USS West Virginia battleship history and legacy, from its launch in 1923 to its pivotal role in World War II, including the Battle of Surigao Strait. Discover its impressive firepower, innovative design, and heroic crew, earning it five battle stars and a revered place in US Naval history and Pacific War heritage.
The USS West Virginia (BB-48) was a Colorado-class battleship that played a significant role in the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned in 1923, the ship was named after the 35th state, West Virginia, and was designed to serve as a formidable force in the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
The USS West Virginia was built at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia, with a keel laid on April 12, 1920. The ship was launched on November 17, 1921, and commissioned on December 1, 1923. During its early years, the USS West Virginia participated in several naval exercises and fleet maneuvers, including the 1925 naval review in San Diego, California.
Interwar Period
During the interwar period, the USS West Virginia underwent several modernizations, including the installation of new antiaircraft guns and the conversion of its coal-fired boilers to oil-fired boilers. The ship also participated in several goodwill tours, visiting ports in Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean.
World War II
On December 7, 1941, the USS West Virginia was moored at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, when the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The ship suffered significant damage, including flooding of its magazines, and was eventually grounded to prevent sinking. The USS West Virginia suffered 106 casualties, including four members of the crew who were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
After the attack, the USS West Virginia underwent extensive repairs and modernization, including the installation of new antiaircraft guns and radar systems. The ship rejoined the U.S. Pacific Fleet in 1944 and participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
Battle of the Philippine Sea
On June 19-20, 1944, the USS West Virginia played a significant role in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, also known as the "Great Marianas Turkey Shoot." The ship served as part of Task Force 58, which was tasked with defending the U.S. invasion force bound for the Mariana Islands. During the battle, the USS West Virginia fired over 300 rounds of 14-inch shells, helping to sink several Japanese aircraft carriers.
Battle of Leyte Gulf
On October 24-25, 1944, the USS West Virginia participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles in history. The ship served as part of Task Force 34, which was tasked with supporting the U.S. invasion force bound for the island of Leyte. During the battle, the USS West Virginia fired over 200 rounds of 14-inch shells, helping to sink several Japanese battleships and cruisers.
Post-War Legacy
After the war, the USS West Virginia was decommissioned on January 9, 1947, and placed in reserve. The ship was eventually sold for scrapping in 1959 and broken up at the Todd Shipyard in Seattle, Washington. Today, the USS West Virginia is remembered as one of the most decorated battleships in U.S. Navy history, with five battle stars for its service during World War II.
The USS West Virginia's legacy extends beyond its military service. The ship's bravery and sacrifice during the attack on Pearl Harbor serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of danger. Today, the USS West Virginia is remembered as a symbol of American strength and resilience.
USS West Virginia Image Gallery
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