Intro
Explore the USS Texas storied history, from its launch in 1912 to its World War I and II battleships service. Discover the vessels role in the Battle of North Africa, D-Day, and Iwo Jima, as well as its post-war fate. Learn about this iconic dreadnoughts most significant engagements and its lasting legacy in American naval history.
The USS Texas, also known as "The Mighty T," is a New York-class battleship that served in the United States Navy from 1914 to 1948. During its impressive career, the USS Texas participated in both World War I and World War II, earning a reputation as a formidable warship.
In this article, we will explore the battles and wars that the USS Texas served in, highlighting its significant contributions to the Allied forces during times of conflict.
World War I
During World War I, the USS Texas was assigned to the British Grand Fleet in the North Sea, where it played a crucial role in protecting Allied convoys from German U-boats. In 1918, the USS Texas sailed to the United States, where it underwent repairs and modernization.
One notable incident during this period was when the USS Texas received a distress call from the British battleship HMS Tiger, which was under attack by German ships. The USS Texas sailed to the Tiger's aid, helping to drive off the enemy and earn the gratitude of the British Navy.
Interwar Period
Between the wars, the USS Texas underwent several modernizations, including the installation of new anti-aircraft guns and improved armor plating. These upgrades made the USS Texas one of the most advanced battleships in the world at the time.
World War II
When the United States entered World War II, the USS Texas was once again called into action. In 1942, the battleship sailed to the North Atlantic, where it played a key role in escorting convoys of troops and supplies to Europe.
One notable engagement during this period was when the USS Texas helped to defend against a German air attack on the Allied convoy HX-231. The USS Texas's anti-aircraft guns were instrumental in repelling the attack, and the convoy was able to continue on its mission.
D-Day and the Normandy Landings
On June 6, 1944, the USS Texas played a pivotal role in the Allied invasion of Normandy, also known as D-Day. The battleship was assigned to bombard German positions along the Normandy coast, providing cover for the Allied troops as they landed on the beaches.
The USS Texas's 14-inch guns fired over 1,000 rounds during the battle, helping to destroy German fortifications and pave the way for the Allied advance. The USS Texas's contributions on D-Day were instrumental in securing the success of the invasion.
Pacific Theater
In 1945, the USS Texas sailed to the Pacific Theater, where it participated in the final stages of the war against Japan. The battleship played a key role in supporting the Allied invasion of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, providing gunfire support for the Marines as they landed on the beaches.
Legacy of the USS Texas
The USS Texas is widely regarded as one of the most decorated battleships in U.S. Navy history, with a total of five battle stars earned during World War II. Today, the USS Texas is a museum ship and memorial in San Jacinto, Texas, where it serves as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the men who served on board.
Notable Battles and Operations
- World War I: North Sea, 1917-1918
- World War II: North Atlantic, 1942; Normandy Landings, June 6, 1944; Iwo Jima, February 1945; Okinawa, April 1945
Honors and Awards
- 5 battle stars for World War II service
- American Campaign Medal
- European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal
- Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
- World War I Victory Medal
USS Texas Specifications
- Length: 573 feet 1 inch (174.7 meters)
- Beam: 95 feet 2 inches (29 meters)
- Draft: 29 feet 7 inches (9 meters)
- Displacement: 26,000 tons
- Speed: 21 knots (39 km/h)
- Crew: 1,024 officers and men
GALLERY OF USS TEXAS
USS Texas Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the USS Texas's primary role during World War II?
+The USS Texas's primary role during World War II was to provide gunfire support for Allied troops during amphibious landings, as well as to escort convoys of troops and supplies across the Atlantic.
How many battle stars did the USS Texas earn during World War II?
+The USS Texas earned a total of five battle stars for its service during World War II.
Where is the USS Texas currently located?
+The USS Texas is currently a museum ship and memorial in San Jacinto, Texas, where it is open to the public for tours and visits.
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