Intro
Discover the overlooked story of the USS Oklahoma, Pearl Harbors forgotten tragedy. On December 7, 1941, the battleship suffered a devastating attack, resulting in the loss of 415 lives. Learn about the ships history, the fateful day, and the ongoing recovery efforts in this in-depth exploration of one of Americas most significant naval disasters.
The USS Oklahoma was one of the United States Navy's most iconic battleships, playing a pivotal role in the country's military history. However, its significance was overshadowed by the tragic events that unfolded during the infamous Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. As the world observed the 80th anniversary of the attack, it's essential to revisit the story of the USS Oklahoma and honor the memories of the brave sailors who lost their lives on that fateful day.
The USS Oklahoma was commissioned in 1914 and was one of the six battleships of the Nevada-class, designed to rival the British Royal Navy's dreadnoughts. During World War I, the Oklahoma served as a convoy escort and participated in several naval exercises. In the 1920s, it underwent modernization, which included the installation of new main armament and the conversion of its propulsion system from coal to oil.
Pearl Harbor and the Fateful Day
On the morning of December 7, 1941, the USS Oklahoma was moored in Ford Island's Berth F-5, alongside the USS Maryland. At 7:48 a.m., Japanese aircraft began their surprise attack on the Pearl Harbor naval base. The Oklahoma was among the first ships to be hit, with a torpedo striking its port side. The impact caused significant damage, but the crew managed to keep the ship afloat.
However, the situation quickly took a turn for the worse. A second torpedo hit the Oklahoma's port side, followed by several bombs and another torpedo. The ship began to list and eventually capsized, trapping hundreds of sailors inside. The USS Oklahoma suffered the second-largest loss of life during the Pearl Harbor attack, with 415 crew members killed.
The Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
Rescue efforts were launched immediately, with sailors from nearby ships and shore-based personnel risking their lives to save as many crew members as possible. However, the capsized ship's confined spaces and darkness made it extremely challenging to reach the trapped sailors. The rescue teams managed to save 32 men, but many more perished in the disaster.
The USS Oklahoma was eventually righted and repaired, but it never returned to active duty. The ship was decommissioned in 1944 and sold for scrap in 1946. The wreck of the Oklahoma was salvaged, and many of its surviving crew members went on to serve in other capacities during World War II.
Remembering the USS Oklahoma
The USS Oklahoma's legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave sailors who lost their lives during the Pearl Harbor attack. The USS Oklahoma Memorial, located near the USS Arizona Memorial, honors the memory of the 415 crew members who perished. The memorial features 415 white marble standards, each representing a lost sailor.
In 2007, the USS Oklahoma was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon and the American Campaign Medal for its service during the attack. In 2019, the USS Oklahoma was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart for its heroic actions on December 7, 1941.
Conclusion: Honoring the USS Oklahoma's Legacy
The story of the USS Oklahoma serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of the sailors who served on board. As we reflect on the events of December 7, 1941, we must remember the sacrifices made by the USS Oklahoma's crew and honor their memories by continuing to share their story.
We invite you to share your thoughts and reflections on the USS Oklahoma's legacy in the comments below.
USS Oklahoma Image Gallery
What happened to the USS Oklahoma during the Pearl Harbor attack?
+The USS Oklahoma was hit by several torpedoes and bombs during the Pearl Harbor attack, causing significant damage and eventually capsizing the ship. The attack resulted in the loss of 415 lives.
Was the USS Oklahoma salvaged after the attack?
+Yes, the USS Oklahoma was salvaged after the attack and eventually decommissioned in 1944. The ship was sold for scrap in 1946.
How is the USS Oklahoma remembered today?
+The USS Oklahoma is remembered through the USS Oklahoma Memorial, located near the USS Arizona Memorial. The memorial honors the 415 crew members who lost their lives during the attack.