7 Historic Ships In Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor, a U.S. naval base in Hawaii, is a historic site that witnessed the surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, drawing the United States into World War II. The harbor is home to several historic ships that played significant roles in the war and its aftermath. Here, we will explore seven historic ships in Pearl Harbor, each with its unique story and significance.

1. USS Arizona (BB-39)

The USS Arizona is one of the most iconic ships in Pearl Harbor, known for its tragic fate during the surprise attack. The Pennsylvania-class battleship was commissioned in 1915 and served in both World War I and World War II. On December 7, 1941, the USS Arizona was moored in Pearl Harbor when it was struck by a Japanese bomb, resulting in a massive explosion that killed 1,177 crew members. Today, the USS Arizona Memorial honors the lives lost and serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating attack.

2. USS Oklahoma (BB-37)

The USS Oklahoma was a Nevada-class battleship that was also present in Pearl Harbor during the attack. The ship was commissioned in 1914 and served in both World War I and World War II. After being struck by Japanese torpedoes, the USS Oklahoma capsized, resulting in the loss of 415 lives. The ship was eventually salvaged and sold for scrap in 1947.

3. USS Missouri (BB-63)

The USS Missouri, also known as the "Mighty Mo," is an Iowa-class battleship that played a significant role in the Allied victory in World War II. Commissioned in 1944, the USS Missouri served in the Pacific Theater and was the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945, marking the end of World War II. Today, the USS Missouri is a museum ship in Pearl Harbor, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.

4. USS Bowfin (SS-287)

The USS Bowfin is a Gato-class submarine that served in World War II, conducting nine war patrols and sinking 44 enemy ships. Commissioned in 1943, the USS Bowfin played a crucial role in disrupting Japanese supply lines and was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for its service. Today, the USS Bowfin is a museum ship in Pearl Harbor, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the history of submarine warfare.

5. USS Utah (AG-16)

The USS Utah was a Florida-class battleship that was converted into a target ship and served as a floating anti-aircraft gun platform during World War II. Commissioned in 1911, the USS Utah was moored in Pearl Harbor during the attack and was struck by Japanese torpedoes, resulting in the loss of 58 lives. Today, the USS Utah Memorial honors the lives lost and serves as a reminder of the ship's service.

6. USS Nevada (BB-36)

The USS Nevada was a Nevada-class battleship that served in both World War I and World War II. Commissioned in 1914, the USS Nevada was present in Pearl Harbor during the attack and was struck by Japanese bombs. The ship was eventually repaired and went on to serve in the Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day.

7. USS Raleigh (CL-7)

The USS Raleigh was an Omaha-class cruiser that served in both World War I and World War II. Commissioned in 1924, the USS Raleigh was present in Pearl Harbor during the attack and was struck by Japanese bombs. The ship was eventually repaired and went on to serve in the Allied victory in the Pacific.

Gallery of Historic Ships in Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor Historic Ships Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor?

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The USS Arizona was struck by a Japanese bomb, resulting in a massive explosion that killed 1,177 crew members.

Which ship was the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender?

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The USS Missouri was the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945, marking the end of World War II.

How many historic ships are in Pearl Harbor?

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There are several historic ships in Pearl Harbor, including the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, USS Missouri, USS Bowfin, USS Utah, USS Nevada, and USS Raleigh.

We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the historic ships in Pearl Harbor and their significance in American history. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don't forget to visit these iconic ships when you're in Hawaii!