Old Mary, Pearl Harbor, and the War in the Pacific

The USS Maryland (BB-46), affectionately known as “Old Mary” or “Fighting Mary,” was a Colorado-class battleship of the United States Navy. She played a significant role during World War II, particularly in the attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent Pacific Theater campaigns.

Commissioned in 1921, the USS Maryland was the third of four Colorado-class battleships. These ships were the last American battleships built before the Washington Naval Treaty, which limited naval armaments to prevent an arms race after World War I. The Maryland featured:

• A displacement of 32,600 tons
• A length of 624 feet
• A beam of 97 feet
• A top speed of 21 knots
• An armament of eight 16-inch guns, twelve 5-inch guns, and several smaller anti-aircraft weapons

Initially, she served in various fleet exercises and goodwill visits in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, honing her crew’s skills and contributing to the navy’s readiness. Despite these activities, “Old Mary” did not participate in any real battles before World War II, as her service was largely limited to peacetime operations and training exercises.

Pearl Harbor Attack
On December 7, 1941, the USS Maryland was moored at Battleship Row in Pearl Harbor, alongside the USS Oklahoma. During the surprise attack by the Japanese, the Maryland suffered relatively minor damage compared to other battleships. Two armor-piercing bombs hit her, but her quick damage control efforts and the protection offered by the capsized Oklahoma shielded her from more severe damage.

War in the Pacific
After Pearl Harbor, the Maryland underwent repairs and upgrades before rejoining the fleet in the Pacific. She became a crucial asset in several key operations:

1. Battle of Midway (June 1942): Though she was not directly engaged in the fighting, Maryland supported the Pacific Fleet’s operations as they repelled the Japanese attack.
2. Guadalcanal Campaign (1942-1943): Maryland provided naval gunfire support for the Marines fighting to secure the island, showcasing her ability to deliver powerful and accurate bombardments.
3. Marshall Islands Campaign (1944): In the assault on the Marshall Islands, Maryland’s heavy guns were instrumental in softening enemy defenses, paving the way for successful amphibious landings.
4. Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 1944): One of the largest naval battles in history, Maryland played a significant role in repelling the Japanese fleet. She was part of the task force that inflicted heavy damage on the Japanese, helping to secure American control over the Philippines.
5. Battle of Okinawa (April-June 1945): Maryland provided critical fire support during one of the war’s bloodiest battles, aiding ground forces in their efforts to capture the island.

After World War II, the USS Maryland continued to serve in a support role, including transporting troops back to the United States. In 1947, Old Mary was relieved from her duty and placed in reserve. Eventually, she was sold for scrap in 1959, marking the end of her distinguished career.

The USS Maryland earned seven battle stars for her World War II service, a testament to her significant contributions and the bravery of her crew. Today, she is remembered as a resilient and formidable battleship that played a pivotal role in the United States’ victory in the Pacific.

The story of “Old Mary” is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and heroism of the men who served aboard her, and she remains a symbol of American naval strength and perseverance during one of history’s most challenging conflicts.