Intro
Discover the tragic fate of the USS Arizona, one of the most devastating losses of Pearl Harbor. Learn about the events leading up to the attack, the catastrophic explosion that sank the ship, and the heart-wrenching number of lives lost in infamy. Uncover the history and heroism behind this pivotal moment in American history.
The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that played a significant role in the United States Navy during World War II. On December 7, 1941, the ship was moored at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, when it was attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy. The attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the United States' entry into World War II, is one of the most infamous events in American history.
The USS Arizona suffered a catastrophic explosion after a bomb struck its forward magazine, killing 1,177 crew members instantly. This devastating loss of life accounted for nearly half of the total number of Americans killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The sinking of the USS Arizona remains one of the most significant maritime disasters in U.S. history.
Background of the USS Arizona
The USS Arizona was commissioned on October 17, 1915, and was the second ship of the Pennsylvania class. It was designed to be a battleship, with a displacement of over 31,000 tons and a length of 608 feet. The ship was armed with 12 14-inch guns, making it one of the most heavily armed ships in the world at the time.
The USS Arizona played a significant role in the U.S. Navy during the interwar period, participating in various exercises and maneuvers. In 1940, the ship was reassigned to the Pacific Fleet, where it was stationed at Pearl Harbor.
Attack on Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, hoping to prevent the U.S. Pacific Fleet from interfering with Japanese expansion in Southeast Asia. At 7:55 a.m., Japanese aircraft began attacking the U.S. naval base, targeting American ships and airfields.
The USS Arizona was moored at Ford Island, alongside other U.S. battleships. At 8:06 a.m., a 1,760-pound armor-piercing bomb struck the ship's forward magazine, causing a massive explosion. The blast killed 1,177 crew members instantly, including the ship's captain, Franklin Van Valkenburgh.
The explosion was so powerful that it blew the ship's forward turret into the air, and the blast was heard and felt miles away. The USS Arizona sank to the bottom of the harbor, taking with it the lives of over a thousand American sailors and Marines.
Aftermath and Memorial
The attack on Pearl Harbor led to the United States' entry into World War II. The USS Arizona was declared a total loss and was eventually stricken from the U.S. Navy's register.
In 1962, a memorial was dedicated to the USS Arizona and its crew. The USS Arizona Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii. The memorial is built above the sunken ship, and visitors can view the remains of the USS Arizona through a viewing area.
Every year on December 7, a ceremony is held at the USS Arizona Memorial to honor the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The ceremony includes a wreath-laying ceremony, a 21-gun salute, and a moment of silence to honor the victims.
Legacy of the USS Arizona
The USS Arizona is remembered as a symbol of American sacrifice and bravery. The ship's crew, who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor, are remembered as heroes who gave their lives for their country.
The USS Arizona is also remembered for its role in shaping American history. The attack on Pearl Harbor led to the United States' entry into World War II, which ultimately led to the defeat of the Axis powers and the emergence of the United States as a global superpower.
The USS Arizona's legacy continues to be felt today, as it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by American servicemen and women during times of war. The ship's story is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve their country, and it continues to inspire future generations of Americans.
USS Arizona Image Gallery
What was the USS Arizona's role in World War II?
+The USS Arizona was a battleship that played a significant role in the U.S. Navy during World War II. It was stationed at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941.
How many lives were lost on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor?
+1,177 crew members lost their lives on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
What is the significance of the USS Arizona Memorial?
+The USS Arizona Memorial is a tribute to the lives lost on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor. It is located above the sunken ship and serves as a reminder of American sacrifice and bravery.
The USS Arizona's story is a testament to the sacrifices made by American servicemen and women during times of war. The ship's legacy continues to inspire future generations of Americans, and its memory serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring and remembering those who have given their lives for their country.