USS Oklahoma: A Symbol of Heroism and Tragedy at Pearl Harbor
December 7, 1941, is a day that will be etched in the memories of Americans for generations to come. It was the day of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor, which drew the United States into World War II. Among the many ships that were attacked that fateful day, the USS Oklahoma (BB-37) holds a special place in history. In this blog post, we will delve into the story of the USS Oklahoma, its heroic crew, and the tragedy that befell them.
Early Years of the USS Oklahoma
The USS Oklahoma was a Nevada-class battleship commissioned on May 2, 1914. During its early years, the ship played a significant role in the United States’ naval presence in the Caribbean and the Atlantic. The USS Oklahoma also served as a training vessel, helping to shape the skills of many young naval officers.
Interwar Period and the Road to Pearl Harbor
In the interwar period, the USS Oklahoma underwent several modernizations, including the installation of new anti-aircraft guns and a reconfiguration of its main armament. The ship also participated in several naval exercises and maneuvers, demonstrating its capabilities as a formidable battleship.
As tensions rose in the Pacific, the USS Oklahoma was redeployed to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1940. The ship arrived in Pearl Harbor on December 2, 1940, and was moored at Ford Island, Berth F-5.
The Attack on Pearl Harbor
On December 7, 1941, the USS Oklahoma was among the first ships to be attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy. At 7:55 a.m., the ship was struck by three 410mm (16.1-inch) armor-piercing shells and four 250kg (551lb) bombs, which caused extensive damage and fires. The USS Oklahoma capsized at 9:30 a.m., resulting in the deaths of 415 crew members.
Heroism and Sacrifice
Despite the devastating attack, the crew of the USS Oklahoma displayed remarkable heroism and sacrifice. Many crew members fought bravely to save their ship and their comrades, often risking their own lives in the process. The USS Oklahoma’s chaplain, Lieutenant Howell M. Forgy, was one such example. Forgy helped rescue trapped crew members from the capsized ship, and his selfless actions earned him the Navy and Marine Corps Medal.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
In the days and weeks following the attack, rescue and recovery efforts were undertaken to save the USS Oklahoma’s surviving crew members. The ship was eventually refloated on June 10, 1943, but the damage was too extensive, and the USS Oklahoma was scrapped in 1946.
⚠️ Note: The USS Oklahoma's crew members who died in the attack are still remembered and honored today, with 415 names inscribed on the USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor.
Lessons Learned and Legacy
The attack on the USS Oklahoma and the subsequent sinking of the ship taught the United States Navy valuable lessons about preparedness, response, and resilience. The tragedy also highlighted the importance of effective communication, surveillance, and early warning systems.
Today, the USS Oklahoma’s legacy lives on as a symbol of American heroism and sacrifice. The ship’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of naval power, preparedness, and the bravery of those who serve in the United States Armed Forces.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 7, 1941 | USS Oklahoma attacked at Pearl Harbor |
| December 7, 1941 | USS Oklahoma capsizes at 9:30 a.m. |
| June 10, 1943 | USS Oklahoma refloated |
| 1946 | USS Oklahoma scrapped |
📝 Note: The USS Oklahoma's story has been the subject of several books, documentaries, and films, including the 2019 film "Midway," which tells the story of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent Battle of Midway.
Without a doubt, the story of the USS Oklahoma is a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the United States Armed Forces. As we reflect on the events of December 7, 1941, we honor the memories of the USS Oklahoma’s crew members and their families, and we recognize the importance of learning from the past to build a better future.
What was the USS Oklahoma’s role at Pearl Harbor?
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The USS Oklahoma was a battleship moored at Ford Island, Berth F-5, in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941.
How many crew members died in the attack on the USS Oklahoma?
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415 crew members died in the attack on the USS Oklahoma.
Was the USS Oklahoma ever repaired or refloated?
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The USS Oklahoma was refloated on June 10, 1943, but the damage was too extensive, and the ship was eventually scrapped in 1946.
Related Terms:
- USS Arizona
- USS Nevada
- USS California
- USS West Virginia
- USS Pennsylvania
- USS Idaho
