The USS Oklahoma, a Nevada-class battleship commissioned in 1916, holds a significant place in American history. She was tragically involved in the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Moored alongside the USS Maryland and other battleships on Battleship Row, the USS Oklahoma was struck by multiple torpedoes, causing her to capsize within minutes.
The USS Oklahoma served for decades, participating in World War I and protecting vital convoys. However, her fate changed on a fateful morning in December 1941. During the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, the ship became a target. Despite valiant efforts by the crew, the torpedoes caused significant damage, causing the ship to rapidly capsize. This tragic event resulted in the loss of 429 crew members, the second-highest number of casualties suffered by a ship during the attack.
Efforts to save trapped crew members were hampered by the rapid sinking of the ship. However, the salvage operation began soon after, aiming to right the ship and recover those who perished. This process took over two years due to the challenges involved. Ultimately, the USS Oklahoma was raised, but the damage sustained proved too extensive, leading to the decommissioning of the ship in 1944. The salvage operation, was successful in raising the ship and helped in the effort to recover the remains of many crew members. Some were buried as unknowns, but ongoing efforts using DNA technology have identified additional remains. In 2007, a renewed effort began to identify the remaining unknowns, and in 2015, plans were announced to exhume and re-identify them.
To honor the fallen crew members, the USS Oklahoma Memorial was dedicated at Pearl Harbor in 2007. This solemn site features 429 marble columns, each representing a lost sailor. The ship’s bell, recovered during salvage, is displayed at the memorial, serving as a powerful reminder of the ship and her crew.
The story of the USS Oklahoma is one of tragedy, sacrifice, and valor. It serves as a reminder of the immense cost of war and the bravery displayed by those who serve. The ongoing efforts to identify the remains and the existence of the USS Oklahoma Memorial ensure that the memory of this ship and her crew continues to be honored at Pearl Harbor and across the United States. We should remember the USS Oklahoma battleship for several reasons. Firstly, her loss serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war. The 429 crew members who lost their lives aboard the ship during the attack on Pearl Harbor represent the sacrifices made in the fight for freedom. Their story reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of striving for peace. Secondly, the USS Oklahoma stands as a symbol of courage and resilience. Despite being struck by multiple torpedoes, the crew members fought valiantly, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to duty. Their bravery inspires us to face challenges with determination and perseverance. Finally, remembering the USS Oklahoma signifies the importance of honoring the fallen. The ongoing efforts to identify the remains of crew members and the existence of the USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor demonstrate our respect for those who lost their lives. These actions ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten.
