The USS Arizona BB-39 was one of the most storied ships in the United States Navy. Commissioned in 1916, the Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that served as the flagship of the Pacific Fleet during the interwar years. She was also one of the most heavily armed ships in the Navy at the time, with ten 14-inch guns and a total of 22 guns of various calibers.
Despite being built prior to World War II, the Arizona played a significant role in the conflict. Her final resting place, in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is a testament to her bravery and sacrifice during the Japanese attack on December 7th, 1941.
The Arizona was an integral part of the United States’ naval presence in the Pacific throughout the interwar years. She participated in numerous training exercises and diplomatic missions, often serving as the flagship of the Pacific Fleet. The ship underwent significant upgrades and modernization during this time, which kept her at the forefront of naval technology.
However, it was during World War II that the Arizona’s true legacy was forged. On December 7th, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. The Arizona was moored in the harbor, and within minutes of the attack beginning, she was hit by several bombs. One of these bombs penetrated the ship’s deck and ignited a massive explosion in her forward magazine, killing 1,177 of the ship’s crew instantly.
The sinking of the Arizona remains one of the most significant events in the history of the United States Navy. It was the deadliest single loss of life in the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the loss of the Arizona’s crew was felt throughout the country. Today, the USS Arizona Memorial stands as a solemn reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served on board the ship.
The Arizona’s legacy lives on today, not only through the memorial but also through the continuing efforts of the United States Navy to honor the ship and her crew. In recent years, the United States Navy has worked to improve the memorial and to ensure that the ship’s history is not forgotten.
In conclusion, the USS Arizona BB-39 was a symbol of American naval power and played a significant role in both the interwar years and World War II. Her tragic sinking at Pearl Harbor remains a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served on board, and the Arizona’s legacy will continue to be remembered for generations to come.
