5 Facts About South Dakota Battleship Memorial

South Dakota, a state located in the Midwestern United States, is known for its rich history and military heritage. One of the state's most iconic attractions is the South Dakota Battleship Memorial, a tribute to the USS South Dakota (BB-57), a battleship that played a significant role in World War II. Here are five facts about the South Dakota Battleship Memorial that showcase its importance and significance.

The USS South Dakota (BB-57) was a battleship that served in the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned in 1942, the ship played a crucial role in several key battles, including the Battle of Santa Cruz, the Battle of Guadalcanal, and the Battle of the Philippine Sea. The USS South Dakota earned 13 battle stars for its service during the war.

1. Construction and Commissioning

The USS South Dakota was constructed at the New York Navy Yard in Brooklyn, New York, and was commissioned on March 20, 1942. The ship was the lead vessel of the South Dakota class of battleships, which also included the USS Indiana (BB-58), USS Massachusetts (BB-59), and USS Alabama (BB-60). The USS South Dakota was designed to be a fast and heavily armed battleship, with a top speed of 27.5 knots and a main armament of nine 16-inch guns.

2. World War II Service

During World War II, the USS South Dakota played a significant role in several key battles in the Pacific Theater. The ship's first major action was at the Battle of Santa Cruz, where it helped to sink the Japanese aircraft carrier Shokaku. The USS South Dakota also participated in the Battle of Guadalcanal, where it helped to defend the island against a Japanese counterattack.

Key Battles and Engagements

• Battle of Santa Cruz (October 26-27, 1942)
• Battle of Guadalcanal (November 13-15, 1942)
• Battle of the Philippine Sea (June 19-20, 1944)
• Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 23-26, 1944)
• Battle of Iwo Jima (February 16-22, 1945)

3. Post-War Service and Decommissioning

After the war, the USS South Dakota was decommissioned and placed in reserve. The ship remained in reserve until 1962, when it was struck from the Naval Vessel Register. The USS South Dakota was sold for scrap in 1962 and was broken up in 1963.

4. Memorial and Legacy

In 1989, a memorial to the USS South Dakota was dedicated in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The memorial features a large anchor and a plaque commemorating the ship's service during World War II. The USS South Dakota is also remembered through various other memorials and exhibits throughout the state of South Dakota.

Memorials and Exhibits

• USS South Dakota Memorial (Sioux Falls, South Dakota)
• South Dakota Air and Space Museum (Rapid City, South Dakota)
• USS South Dakota exhibit at the South Dakota State Historical Society Museum (Pierre, South Dakota)

5. Preservation and Restoration

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and restore the legacy of the USS South Dakota. In 2019, a group of volunteers began working to restore the ship's anchor, which is now on display at the USS South Dakota Memorial in Sioux Falls.

Preservation Efforts

• Restoration of the USS South Dakota's anchor
• Creation of a virtual tour of the USS South Dakota
• Development of educational programs and exhibits about the USS South Dakota

Gallery of South Dakota Battleship Memorial

South Dakota Battleship Memorial Image Gallery

FAQs

What was the USS South Dakota's role in World War II?

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The USS South Dakota played a significant role in several key battles in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including the Battle of Santa Cruz, the Battle of Guadalcanal, and the Battle of the Philippine Sea.

Where is the USS South Dakota Memorial located?

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The USS South Dakota Memorial is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

What is the significance of the USS South Dakota's anchor?

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The USS South Dakota's anchor is a symbol of the ship's service and sacrifice during World War II. It is now on display at the USS South Dakota Memorial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

In conclusion, the South Dakota Battleship Memorial is an important tribute to the USS South Dakota and its service during World War II. The memorial serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the crew and the significance of the ship's role in the war. By preserving and restoring the legacy of the USS South Dakota, we can ensure that its history is not forgotten and that future generations can learn from its service.