American Ships Sunk at Pearl Harbor

On the morning of December 7, 1941, the world witnessed a pivotal moment in history—the attack on Pearl Harbor. This surprise military strike by the Japanese Navy Air Service against the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, marked a turning point that led to the United States’ direct involvement in World War II. Central to the tragedy and heroism of that day were the American ships that were sunk during the attack. Remembering these sunken vessels is crucial to understanding the full impact of the event and honoring the lives lost.

Japanese Navy started the attack on Pearl Harbor began at 7:48 a.m. Hawaiian time. Japanese planes, launched from six aircraft carriers, struck in two waves. Their primary targets were the battleships moored along Battleship Row, airfields, and other strategic points on the island. The goal was clear: to neutralize the U.S. naval power in the Pacific, giving Japan free rein to expand its empire.

Battleship Row was the term used to describe the lineup of 8 U.S. battleships docked along Ford Island. These ships were the main targets due to their size and strategic importance. Their destruction would significantly weaken the U.S. naval presence in the Pacific.

The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship, which was commissioned in 1916. It was a formidable vessel, armed with twelve 14-inch guns and heavily armored. On December 7, the Arizona was moored in Pearl Harbor. When the attack began, it became one of the primary targets. A bomb penetrated its forward magazine, leading to a catastrophic explosion. The explosion caused the ship to sink rapidly, killing 1,177 crew members. Today, the USS Arizona Memorial stands above the wreckage, honoring those who perished.

The USS Oklahoma was a Nevada-class battleship launched in 1914. It was notable for its heavy armor and powerful armament. During the attack, the Oklahoma was hit by multiple torpedoes. It capsized, trapping hundreds of sailors inside. Rescue operations were mounted immediately, but 429 crew members lost their lives. The Oklahoma was eventually righted and salvaged, but it was too damaged to return to service.

The USS West Virginia was a Colorado-class battleship, commissioned in 1923. It was one of the most modern ships in the fleet. The West Virginia was hit by seven torpedoes and two bombs, causing severe damage. It sank to the harbor bottom but was later raised and repaired. Despite the extensive damage, West Virginia was refloated and returned to service in 1944, playing a significant role in the Pacific Theater.

The USS California was a Tennessee-class battleship launched in 1919. It was the flagship, which was a ship of the Pacific Fleet. Hit by two bombs and two torpedoes, the California slowly sank. Many crew members valiantly attempted to keep her afloat, but the damage was too severe. The California was refloated in March 1942 and underwent extensive repairs. It returned to active duty in January 1944.

Commissioned in 1916, the USS Nevada was another Nevada-class battleship. It was unique for its oil-fired engines and “all-or-nothing” armor scheme. The Nevada attempted to make a break for the open sea but was heavily damaged by bombs and torpedoes. To avoid sinking in the channel, it was beached. The ship was later repaired and rejoined the fleet, participating in the Normandy invasion and the Pacific campaigns.

The USS Tennessee was a Tennessee-class battleship commissioned in 1920. It featured improved armor and fire control systems. The Tennessee was hit by two bombs and damaged by the explosion of the nearby Arizona. However, it remained afloat. After repairs, the USS Tennessee returned to action and fought in several key battles, including Leyte Gulf and Okinawa.

The USS Maryland was a Colorado-class battleship launched in 1920. It boasted impressive firepower and protection. Although it was hit by two bombs, the Maryland escaped relatively lightly compared to other battleships. It remained afloat and quickly returned to service. Following temporary repairs, the Maryland participated in numerous Pacific battles, earning seven battle stars.

The story of the sunken ships at Pearl Harbor is a testament to the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served. These ships, now resting as solemn memorials, remind us of the cost of war and the enduring spirit of those who fight for freedom. The legacy of Pearl Harbor continues to teach and inspire, ensuring that the events of December 7, 1941, are never forgotten.