The Bell of the USS Sacramento

The Bell of the USS Sacramento stands as a symbol of courage, resilience, and sacrifice, reminding us of a storied vessel’s vital contributions during the attack on Pearl Harbor and beyond. While the battleships of Pearl Harbor often dominate the narrative, the USS Sacramento (PG-19), a gunboat stationed at the Naval Yard’s B-6 repair berth, played a crucial yet often overlooked role in the events of December 7, 1941.

Today, a piece of this remarkable ship’s legacy lives on in Sacramento, California, where its bell is proudly displayed as a tribute to its heroic crew.

When the first wave of Japanese aircraft unleashed devastation on Battleship Row, the USS Sacramento and her crew sprang into action. At precisely 0800, the gunboat’s sailors manned their battle stations, ready to defend the harbor. Within moments, the Sacramento’s artillery roared to life, targeting enemy planes that sought to destroy the battleships.

In the chaos of the attack, the Sacramento’s crew successfully downed two Japanese aircraft, including one heading toward the USS Nevada as it attempted to escape the harbor. Beyond her firepower, the Sacramento became a beacon of hope during the attack, deploying rescue boats to save sailors from the capsized USS Oklahoma.

This dual role of defense and rescue underscored the ship’s importance, even as larger vessels captured the public’s attention.

Long before Pearl Harbor, the USS Sacramento had established itself as a symbol of resilience and aid. Launched in February 1914, the gunboat had a storied history in the Western Pacific.

In 1924, the Sacramento provided crucial assistance to victims of the Yokohama earthquake in Japan, showcasing its role as a humanitarian vessel. Later, during conflicts in the Yangtze River in 1937, the gunboat earned the nickname “Galloping Ghost of the China Coast,” embodying hope for those caught in turbulent times.

Following Pearl Harbor, the Sacramento continued to serve valiantly in World War II, later transitioning into a training ship for new gun crews. In 1946, after decades of dedicated service, she was decommissioned, and her bell was removed and placed in storage.

Decades later, the bell of the USS Sacramento emerged from storage as a lasting tribute to the ship’s legacy. In 1984, the City of Sacramento and the Sacramento Navy League publicly unveiled the bell in a heartfelt ceremony. This symbol of heroism honors the ship’s crew and their contributions to Pearl Harbor, World War II, and humanitarian efforts across the globe.

Today, the bell serves as a poignant reminder of the courage displayed by the men of the USS Sacramento, who fought bravely in defense of Pearl Harbor and risked their lives to rescue others.

The story of the USS Sacramento and its bell resonates as a testament to the power of resilience and duty. While relics like the remains of the USCG Tiger and pieces of the USS Arizona are scattered across the nation, the bell of the USS Sacramento holds a unique place in history, bridging the gap between wartime heroics and peace-time remembrance.

For those visiting Sacramento, California, this relic offers a chance to reflect on the ship’s invaluable contributions and the enduring legacy of her crew. The Bell of the USS Sacramento is more than just a piece of metal—it’s a symbol of bravery, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to service during some of history’s most defining moments.