USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor

The USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor is not just a ship; it is a symbol of a pivotal moment in American history. On December 7, 1941, the surprise attack by Japanese forces thrust the United States into World War II, forever changing the course of the conflict. The USS Arizona, tragically sunk during this assault, has since become a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience shown during one of the darkest days in American history.

Laid down on March 16, 1914, and commissioned on October 17, 1916, the USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship named in honor of the 48th state. Built by the New York Naval Shipyard, the Arizona was a testament to early 20th-century naval engineering, featuring the latest in battleship design and armament.

On the fateful morning of December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor was attacked by 353 Japanese aircraft. The assault began at 7:55 a.m. and caught the US forces completely off guard. Japanese planes swarmed over Pearl Harbor, targeting battleships, airfields, and other military installations. The attack lasted approximately two hours, resulting in devastating losses. The USS Arizona was struck by several bombs during the attack. At 8:06 a.m., a bomb penetrated the forward magazine, causing a massive explosion that ripped the ship apart and sank it in less than nine minutes. The bomb that sealed the fate of the USS Arizona detonated with catastrophic force. The explosion resulted in a fireball and a plume of smoke that could be seen for miles, effectively splitting the ship in two. The explosion killed 1,177 of the 1,512 crewmen aboard the Arizona. Many were trapped below deck, and the intense fires prevented any significant rescue efforts. The ship settled on the shallow harbor floor, where it remains to this day.

Aftermath of the Attack
In the wake of the attack, survivors and rescuers scrambled to save those still trapped in the wreckage. Despite their efforts, the scale of the devastation made rescue operations extremely difficult. The loss of the USS Arizona, along with other ships and aircraft, was a severe blow to the US Navy. However, it galvanized the American public and military, leading to a rapid mobilization for war.

Honoring Those Who Perished
The attack on Pearl Harbor resulted in 2,403 American deaths, with the USS Arizona accounting for nearly half of those losses. The names of the fallen are inscribed on a memorial wall at the USS Arizona Memorial. Amidst the chaos, there were numerous acts of heroism. Sailors risked their lives to save comrades, and many went down with their ships, embodying the spirit of sacrifice and bravery.

Establishment of the Memorial
In 1962, the USS Arizona Memorial was dedicated to honor those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The memorial straddles the sunken battleship and is accessible only by boat. The memorial, designed by architect Alfred Preis, is a striking structure that symbolizes both the initial defeat and eventual victory. The design includes an open-air central area that allows visitors to look directly at the remains of the Arizona below.

Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial Today
Visitors to the USS Arizona Memorial can expect a solemn and moving experience. The visit begins with a short documentary film about the attack, followed by a boat ride to the memorial itself. The memorial offers various educational programs and exhibits, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the events of December 7, 1941, and the broader context of World War II. Efforts to preserve the USS Arizona and its memorial are ongoing. This includes monitoring the structural integrity of the wreck, controlling oil leakage, and maintaining the memorial structure. Today, the USS Arizona remains where it sank in 1941, serving as both a tomb for those lost and a historical artifact. The site is monitored and preserved to honor the memory of the fallen.

The USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor is more than just a sunken battleship; it is a symbol of sacrifice, bravery, and the enduring spirit of America. The events of December 7, 1941, and the loss of the Arizona serve as a poignant reminder of the costs of war and the importance of remembrance. As we honor the past, we also commit to educating future generations, ensuring that the legacy of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona continues to inspire and teach.