Intro
Discover the USS Wisconsins location and museum details, showcasing Americas last battleship. Explore the Norfolk, Virginia waterfront, where this iconic ship is now a National Historic Landmark and museum, offering guided tours, exhibits, and naval history. Learn about its WWII and Gulf War service, and experience the Battleship Wisconsins rich legacy.
The USS Wisconsin (BB-64) is an Iowa-class battleship that served in the United States Navy during World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. After being decommissioned for the second time in 1991, the ship was donated to the National Maritime Center in Norfolk, Virginia, where it is now a museum and memorial. In this article, we will explore the USS Wisconsin's location, museum details, and its rich history.
USS Wisconsin Location
The USS Wisconsin is located in Norfolk, Virginia, at the National Maritime Center, also known as Nauticus. The ship is moored on the Elizabeth River, adjacent to the Waterside District, a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can access the ship from the Nauticus building, which offers stunning views of the battleship.
USS Wisconsin Museum Details
The USS Wisconsin museum is operated by the National Maritime Center and offers self-guided tours of the ship. Visitors can explore the battleship's deck and interior spaces, including the bridge, engine rooms, and crew quarters. The museum also features interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the ship's history, technology, and crew.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the ship's bridge, where the captain and crew controlled the battleship's movements and operations.
- Visit the engine rooms, which powered the ship's propellers and generated electricity.
- See the crew quarters, where the sailors lived and worked during their time on board.
- Learn about the ship's history and technology through interactive exhibits and displays.
USS Wisconsin History
The USS Wisconsin was commissioned in 1944 and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The ship played a key role in several battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle of Okinawa. After the war, the ship was decommissioned and placed in reserve.
In 1951, the USS Wisconsin was recommissioned and served in the Korean War, providing gunfire support for United Nations forces. The ship was decommissioned again in 1958 and remained in reserve until the Gulf War, when it was recommissioned for a third time.
During the Gulf War, the USS Wisconsin played a key role in the liberation of Kuwait, providing gunfire support for coalition forces. After the war, the ship was decommissioned for the second time in 1991 and was donated to the National Maritime Center.
Notable Awards and Honors
- The USS Wisconsin earned six battle stars for its service during World War II and the Korean War.
- The ship received the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during the Gulf War.
- The USS Wisconsin was also awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal.
USS Wisconsin Specifications
- Length: 887 feet 3 inches (270.5 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet 2 inches (33 meters)
- Draft: 29 feet 1 inch (8.9 meters)
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Speed: 33 knots (61 kilometers per hour)
- Crew: 1,521 officers and enlisted personnel
- Armament: Nine 16-inch guns, 20 5-inch guns, and 80 40mm anti-aircraft guns
USS Wisconsin Legacy
The USS Wisconsin is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the sailors who served on board. The ship's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of naval power and the role that battleships played in shaping world history.
Today, the USS Wisconsin is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of American military history. Visitors from around the world come to see the ship and learn about its remarkable story.
USS Wisconsin Image Gallery
We hope you've enjoyed this article about the USS Wisconsin's location and museum details. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us. Don't forget to visit the USS Wisconsin museum in Norfolk, Virginia, to see this incredible battleship up close and learn more about its remarkable history.