Surviving Battleships of Pearl Harbor: Their Fate and Legacy
The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, remains one of the most significant events in United States history. The surprise bombing resulted in the sinking of several battleships, yet many of those that survived played critical roles in subsequent battles during World War II. This article explores the fate of the surviving battleships, their roles in the Pacific Theater, and their current status.
What Happened to the Sunk Battleships?
Of the battleships that were present at Pearl Harbor on that fateful day, several were rendered watery graves. However, many of these ships were salvaged and brought back into service. Six battleships were repaired and served in a variety of roles, including island bombardment and engagements with Japanese forces.
Recovery and Restoration
Remarkably, the condition of the damaged battleships varied significantly. The Nevada managed to beach herself to avoid being sunk in the channel, becoming a stationary object that posed a hazard to navigation. Other ships, such as the West Virginia, California, Nevada, Maryland, and Tennessee, were refloated and repaired following months of intensive efforts by both military and civilian salvage experts.
These battleships underwent a remarkable turnaround, returning to combat readiness in record time. After only six months of repair, West Virginia, California, Nevada, Marlyand, and Tennessee were able to be towed to the United States for further major repairs. This feat was often referred to as the 'Miracle of Pearl Harbor.'
Post-War Fate
After the war, the fate of the once again restored battleships varied. Some, like the dreadnought Texas, found new purposes. However, others faced a more painful end. The Pennsylvania, Nevada, California, West Virginia, Maryland, and Tennessee were either scrapped or sunk as target ships. Among them, the Nevada faced a bizarre end in a series of atomic tests in Bikini Atoll in 1946.
Final Resting Places
The Arizona, the most famous of the sunken ships, was beyond repair and was salvaged for useful equipment. It was eventually left in place to eventually become a war memorial at Pearl Harbor. The Utah, though partially salvaged and already obsolete, was left in place. The Oklahoma was refloated but capsized and was lost in deep water during the tow back to the United States, never to return to service.
Memorial and Legacy
Today, several memorials exist to honor the sacrifice made by those aboard the battleships during the attack. Notably, the Arizona has become a popular national historical monument and a war memorial, serving as a tribute to the brave souls who served on those vessels.
While the surviving battleships returned to service and played significant roles in the war's final phases, their legacy continues to be recognized and celebrated. The story of the 'Miracle of Pearl Harbor' stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the United States Navy during one of its darkest hours.