Ships of Pearl Harbor: USS Phoenix

Pearl Harbor, the infamous site of the surprise Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, holds a critical place in world history. Among the many ships that were present during this pivotal moment was the USS Phoenix. This article delves into the fascinating story of the USS Phoenix, exploring its construction, role in Pearl Harbor, subsequent service, and transformation into the Argentine cruiser ARA General Belgrano.

The USS Phoenix (CL-46) was a Brooklyn-class light cruiser built by the New York Shipbuilding Corporation. Her keel was laid down on April 15, 1935, and she was launched on March 12, 1938. Named after the capital of Arizona, Phoenix was commissioned into the United States Navy on October 3, 1938.

• Class and Type: Brooklyn-class light cruiser
• Displacement: Approximately 9,475 tons (standard), 12,242 tons (full load)
• Length: 608 feet
• Beam: 61 feet 9 inches
• Draft: 23 feet 9 inches

• The Phoenix was armed to the teeth, featuring:

  • 15 x 6-inch/47 caliber guns
  • 8 x 5-inch/25 caliber anti-aircraft guns
  • Multiple smaller caliber anti-aircraft weapons

  Her armor and speed, clocking at about 32.5 knots, made her a formidable presence on the seas.

On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, the USS Phoenix was moored in Pearl Harbor. Despite the chaos and destruction that unfolded, the Phoenix remarkably emerged unscathed. The Phoenix was anchored southeast of Ford Island, alongside other light cruisers. This positioning may have contributed to her evasion of direct hits during the attack. As Japanese aircraft swarmed overhead, the crew of the Phoenix sprang into action. They manned anti-aircraft guns and fought valiantly to defend the fleet. Their efforts were crucial in minimizing damage to surrounding vessels. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the USS Phoenix became an integral part of the Pacific Theater operations.

After serving valiantly in World War II, the USS Phoenix saw a significant transformation post-war. In 1951, the United States sold the Phoenix to Argentina. She was subsequently renamed ARA 17 de Octubre, in honor of a significant date in Argentine history. In 1956, following a political change in Argentina, she was renamed again to ARA General Belgrano, after the famous Argentine revolutionary leader Manuel Belgrano. As the ARA General Belgrano, the ship continued to serve in various capacities for the Argentine Navy. The Belgrano participated in numerous naval exercises and missions, showcasing her enduring utility and adaptability. During the Falklands War in 1982, the Belgrano was deployed as part of the Argentine task force. Her role in this conflict, however, would become her final chapter. The sinking of the ARA General Belgrano remains one of the most controversial naval incidents of the late 20th century. On May 2, 1982, the British submarine HMS Conqueror torpedoed the Belgrano. This attack resulted in the sinking of the ship and the tragic loss of 323 Argentine sailors.

The story of the USS Phoenix is a remarkable tale of resilience, transformation, and legacy. From her early days in the U.S. Navy to her poignant end as the ARA General Belgrano, this ship’s journey encapsulates significant historical events and reflects the broader narratives of 20th-century naval history.