Introduction to USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor
The USS Oklahoma (BB-37) was a battleship that played a significant role in the United States’ naval history. Commissioned in 1914, the Oklahoma served in both World War I and World War II. One of the most notable events in the ship’s history was its participation in the Battle of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Here are five key facts about USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor:
Fact #1: USS Oklahoma's Role at Pearl Harbor
The USS Oklahoma was one of the eight battleships moored along Battleship Row in Pearl Harbor on the morning of December 7, 1941. The ship was part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, and its primary mission was to provide defense for the naval base. On that fateful day, the Oklahoma was attacked by Japanese aircraft, resulting in severe damage and significant loss of life.
Fact #2: The Sinking of USS Oklahoma
At 7:48 a.m. on December 7, 1941, the USS Oklahoma was attacked by Japanese bombers. The ship was struck by four 250-pound armor-piercing bombs, which caused extensive damage to its hull and superstructure. The Oklahoma began to list severely to port, and within 12 minutes, the ship had capsized. A total of 415 crew members lost their lives in the attack, and many more were injured.
Fact #3: Rescue Efforts and Salvage Operations
Following the attack, rescue efforts were launched to save the crew members trapped inside the capsized ship. A team of divers and salvage experts worked tirelessly to rescue survivors and recover the bodies of the deceased. The rescue efforts were led by Lieutenant Commander Johannes S. Dahlquist, who risked his life to save many of the crew members.
🌊 Note: The rescue efforts at USS Oklahoma were hindered by the risk of explosions from the ship's fuel tanks and the difficulty of accessing the trapped crew members.
Fact #4: Aftermath and Reconstruction
The USS Oklahoma was deemed too damaged to be repaired and was subsequently stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in 1942. The ship’s wreckage was sold for scrap in 1946, and it was eventually broken up in 1947. The loss of the USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor was a significant blow to the U.S. Navy, but it also served as a catalyst for the nation’s entry into World War II.
Fact #5: USS Oklahoma Memorial
In 2007, a memorial was dedicated to the crew members of the USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor. The memorial, located on Ford Island, features a series of white marble standards, each representing a crew member who lost their life during the attack. The memorial also includes a bronze plaque with the names of the deceased crew members and a quote from President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s speech following the attack.
Conclusion
The USS Oklahoma played a significant role in the history of the United States Navy, particularly during the Battle of Pearl Harbor. The loss of the ship and its crew members was a tragic event that had far-reaching consequences. Today, the USS Oklahoma is remembered as a symbol of sacrifice and courage, and its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
What was the USS Oklahoma’s mission at Pearl Harbor?
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The USS Oklahoma was part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, and its primary mission was to provide defense for the naval base at Pearl Harbor.
How many crew members lost their lives during the attack on USS Oklahoma?
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A total of 415 crew members lost their lives during the attack on USS Oklahoma.
What is the significance of the USS Oklahoma memorial at Pearl Harbor?
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The USS Oklahoma memorial at Pearl Harbor is a tribute to the crew members who lost their lives during the attack on December 7, 1941. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifice and courage of the crew members and their families.
Related Terms:
- USS Arizona
- USS Nevada
- USS California
- USS West Virginia
- USS Oklahoma City
- USS Pennsylvania
