5 USS Oklahoma Facts

Introduction to the USS Oklahoma

The USS Oklahoma was a Nevada-class battleship that played a significant role in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II. The ship was named after the 46th state, Oklahoma, and was commissioned on May 2, 1916. Throughout its service, the USS Oklahoma participated in several important battles and events, earning several awards and decorations. Here are five key facts about the USS Oklahoma:

Construction and Commissioning

The USS Oklahoma was built at the New York Navy Yard and was launched on March 23, 1914. The ship was sponsored by Lorena J. Cruce, the daughter of a Oklahoma governor. After its launch, the USS Oklahoma underwent a series of fitting out and sea trials before being commissioned on May 2, 1916. The ship was equipped with ten 14-inch guns and had a crew of over 900 officers and men.

World War I Service

During World War I, the USS Oklahoma served as a part of the United States Atlantic Fleet. The ship sailed to Europe in 1917 and joined the British Grand Fleet at Scapa Flow, Scotland. The USS Oklahoma participated in several patrols and exercises with the British fleet, helping to protect Allied shipping lanes from German U-boats. After the war, the USS Oklahoma returned to the United States and underwent a series of modernizations and overhauls.

Interwar Period and World War II

Between the wars, the USS Oklahoma continued to serve with the United States Navy, participating in several fleet exercises and deployments. In 1939, the ship was assigned to the Pacific Fleet and was based at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. On December 7, 1941, the USS Oklahoma was moored at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor when the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base. The ship was hit by multiple torpedoes and bombs, causing it to capsize and resulting in the loss of 415 lives.

Sinking and Salvage

The USS Oklahoma was one of the most heavily damaged ships at Pearl Harbor, and its sinking was a significant blow to the United States Navy. In 1943, the Navy began a salvage operation to raise the USS Oklahoma and repair the damage. The ship was finally raised in 1943, but it was deemed too damaged to be returned to service. The USS Oklahoma was sold for scrap in 1946 and was broken up in 1947.

🚢 Note: The sinking of the USS Oklahoma was one of the most significant losses for the United States Navy during World War II, and it led to significant changes in the way that battleships were designed and constructed.

Legacy and Memorials

Today, the USS Oklahoma is remembered as a symbol of American sacrifice and bravery during World War II. A memorial to the USS Oklahoma and its crew is located at Pearl Harbor, and the ship’s bell is on display at the Oklahoma State Capitol building. The USS Oklahoma’s legacy continues to be honored by the United States Navy, and its story serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice and service.

In summary, the USS Oklahoma played a significant role in the United States Navy during World War I and World War II, participating in several important battles and events. The ship’s sinking at Pearl Harbor was a significant loss, but its legacy continues to be honored today. The story of the USS Oklahoma serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice and service, and its impact on American history will never be forgotten.