Intro
Uncover the rich history of the USS Alabama, a legendary battleship that played a pivotal role in World War II. Explore its storied past, from its launch in 1942 to its impressive war record and eventual conversion into a museum ship. Discover the Alabamas notable battles, crew, and aircraft, and learn why it remains an iconic symbol of American naval power.
The USS Alabama, a South Dakota-class battleship, has a rich and storied history that spans over three decades. Commissioned in 1942, the USS Alabama played a significant role in World War II, participating in several key battles and earning a total of nine Battle Stars. Today, the USS Alabama is a museum ship and memorial, moored in Mobile Bay, Alabama, serving as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices of the men who served on her.
One of the most impressive aspects of the USS Alabama's history is her impressive combat record. During World War II, the USS Alabama participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. She also provided gunfire support for the Allied invasion of Sicily and the Italian mainland.
Design and Construction
The USS Alabama was built at the Norfolk Navy Yard in Portsmouth, Virginia, and was commissioned on August 16, 1942. She was the sixth ship to bear the name Alabama and was designed to be a fast and heavily armed battleship, capable of reaching speeds of up to 27 knots.
The USS Alabama was 680 feet long and 108 feet wide, with a displacement of over 35,000 tons. She was armed with nine 14-inch guns, twelve 5-inch guns, and numerous anti-aircraft guns. She also had a crew of over 1,500 men and was designed to be a formidable opponent on the high seas.
World War II Service
The USS Alabama's first major action was during the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands in October 1942. She was part of a task force that was sent to intercept a Japanese fleet that was attempting to attack the Allied naval base at Espiritu Santo.
The USS Alabama played a key role in the battle, helping to sink several Japanese ships and earning her first Battle Star. She went on to participate in several other key battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
Post-War Service
After the end of World War II, the USS Alabama was placed in reserve and was eventually decommissioned in 1947. She remained in reserve for over a decade, before being reactivated in 1951 and modernized with new radar and fire control systems.
The USS Alabama served for another decade, before being decommissioned for a final time in 1962. She was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in 1964 and was eventually sold for scrapping.
Museum Ship and Memorial
However, the USS Alabama was saved from the scrap heap by a group of Alabama veterans, who formed the USS Alabama Battleship Commission to raise funds to purchase the ship and have her converted into a museum and memorial.
The USS Alabama was towed to Mobile Bay, Alabama, where she was moored and converted into a museum and memorial. She was opened to the public in 1964 and has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state of Alabama.
Gallery of USS Alabama Images
USS Alabama Image Gallery
What was the USS Alabama's role in World War II?
+The USS Alabama played a significant role in World War II, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
Where is the USS Alabama currently located?
+The USS Alabama is currently moored in Mobile Bay, Alabama, where she serves as a museum and memorial.
How long did the USS Alabama serve in the US Navy?
+The USS Alabama served in the US Navy from 1942 to 1962, with a total of 20 years of service.
What is the USS Alabama's status today?
+The USS Alabama is currently a museum ship and memorial, open to the public for tours and educational programs.
How many Battle Stars did the USS Alabama earn during World War II?
+The USS Alabama earned a total of nine Battle Stars during World War II.
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