The Battleship That Wasn’t There: USS Colorado

A few battleships like the USS Colorado were away from Pearl Harbor when it was attacked. On the infamous morning of December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, a day that would live in infamy. The attack resulted in catastrophic damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, with several battleships sunk or severely damaged. Yet, amidst the chaos and destruction, one battleship managed to avoid the catastrophe: the USS Colorado.

It might seem counterintuitive that a battleship would miss such a significant event. However, Colorado’s absence was due to a series of unfortunate circumstances. As the war clouds gathered in the Pacific, the Colorado was undergoing a major overhaul at the Puget Sound Navy Yard. The ship was in the midst of a complex refit, which included the installation of new machinery and equipment. While this work was essential to modernize the battleship, it also had the unintended consequence of delaying her departure for Pearl Harbor.
The plan was for the Colorado to relieve the West Virginia in Hawaii, but a series of setbacks pushed back the ship’s departure date. Just as the final preparations were being made, disaster struck. A blower wasn’t installed correctly, and the rewound electric drive motor overheated and caught fire. The ensuing damage was significant, and repairs took longer than expected.
By the time the Colorado was finally ready to sail, the attack on Pearl Harbor had already occurred. The crew was undoubtedly filled with a mix of emotions. Relief for their safety was tempered by anger and frustration at missing the opportunity to defend their country. The attack served as a stark reminder of the growing threat posed by Japan, and the Colorado’s crew was eager to join the fight.
Although spared the horrors of Pearl Harbor, the Colorado would play a crucial role in the Pacific War. After completing repairs and additional modifications, including the installation of anti-torpedo bulges, the ship joined the fleet in the defense of the West Coast and eventually deployed to the Pacific theater. The Colorado participated in numerous battles and campaigns, providing invaluable fire support to ground troops and engaging enemy ships.
The USS Colorado’s absence from Pearl Harbor is a unique chapter in the history of the attack. While the ship’s crew was fortunate to avoid the tragedy, their story is a testament to the challenges and sacrifices faced by the U.S. Navy during World War II. The USS Colorado’s eventual contributions to the war effort demonstrate the resilience and determination of the American people in the face of adversity.
While the battleship’s absence from Pearl Harbor is often overlooked, it is a fascinating and important part of the larger narrative. The USS Colorado’s story reminds us of the complex factors at play during wartime and the human element behind the machinery of war.