Visiting the Battleship Missouri

When you are visiting the Battleship Missouri, famously known as the “Mighty Mo.”, read this blog at first. This iconic battleship played a significant role in World War II and continues to stand as a symbol of peace and strength. Visiting the Battleship Missouri offers a unique opportunity to walk through history, explore a legendary vessel, and gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance.

Commissioned in 1944, the USS Missouri is one of the most famous battleships in American history. Spanning 887 feet and weighing 45,000 tons, the Missouri was the last battleship ever built by the United States. Her service began during World War II, where she supported Allied forces in key battles, including the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The Missouri’s most famous moment came on September 2, 1945, when the Japanese Empire officially surrendered on her deck, marking the end of World War II. This momentous event took place in Tokyo Bay, forever etching the USS Missouri into the annals of history.

Visiting the Battleship Missouri Memorial allows you to step back in time and explore the ship where history was made. As you walk along the deck, you can stand on the very spot where the surrender ceremony took place, a moment that symbolizes the triumph of peace over war. The surrender deck is one of the most visited parts of the ship, offering a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the hope for a better future.
The tour of the USS Missouri also takes you through various parts of the ship, including the crew’s quarters, the captain’s cabin, and the engine room. These areas provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the sailors who served aboard the ship. The well-preserved condition of these spaces allows visitors to imagine what life was like for those who called the Missouri home during her years of active service.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Battleship Missouri is the visible dent on her starboard side, caused by a kamikaze attack during the Battle of Okinawa. Remarkably, the plane did not explode, and the ship sustained minimal damage, allowing it to continue its mission. Today, this dent serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced during wartime and the resilience of the USS Missouri and her crew.
In addition to the surrender deck and the kamikaze dent, the Battleship Missouri Memorial features a variety of exhibits that highlight the ship’s history and the broader context of World War II. One such exhibit is dedicated to the kamikaze pilots, offering insight into their motivations and the impact of their missions. These exhibits are thoughtfully curated to provide educational experiences that are both informative and moving.

After World War II, the USS Missouri continued to serve in various capacities, including during the Korean War. In 1955, she was decommissioned and placed in the Pacific Reserve Fleet, only to be reactivated and modernized in the 1980s. The ship’s final mission was during the Gulf War in 1991, after which she was decommissioned for the last time.
In 1998, the USS Missouri was moved to Pearl Harbor, where it was transformed into a museum and memorial. Positioned just 400 yards from the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri stands guard over the resting place of those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor, creating a powerful juxtaposition between the beginning and end of the United States’ involvement in World War II.