Why Was the USS Arizona Not Salvaged After the Attack at Pearl Harbor?
The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, marked a pivotal moment in American history. Among the many ships that were destroyed or damaged, the USS Arizona became a symbolic remembrance of that fateful day. But why was the ship not salvaged after the attack? This article explores the reasons behind the decision not to salvage the USS Arizona and the aftermath of its catastrophic destruction.
What Was “Saving” the USS Arizona?
The concept of “saving” the USS Arizona is complex and multifaceted. One interpretation could be salvaging the ship for repairs. Another interpretation might be protecting the ship from the attack, which was beyond anyone's control due to the sudden and devastating nature of the strike. Lastly, it could refer to recovering the wreckage and attempting to bring the ship back to the surface. However, due to the extent of destruction, these efforts were not feasible.
No Salvage Plan for the USS Arizona
After the attack, efforts focused on refloating and repairing the remaining ships. The USS Arizona, however, was deemed irreparable due to the extensive damage. A salvage operation was not attempted for several reasons:
Strategic Importance: The USS Arizona was a relatively old ship, commissioned in 1916. Repairing such an outdated vessel would have required significant material and time, which was better allocated towards newer ships that were more strategically valuable. Resource Constraints: Dry docks and shipyard space were in short supply, and tying up resources for an extensive salvage operation was not a wise strategic decision. Risk to Personnel: Entering the USS Arizona to remove bodies posed significant risks due to the volatile materials still on board. The decision was made to leave the ship as a war grave, honoring the 1,177 men who died on board. It was deemed unsafe to even attempt to enter the ship.Aftermath of the Attack
The USS Arizona suffered a catastrophic explosion, which destroyed the ship. Divers later discovered that the keel was broken, which rendered any salvage efforts futile. The superstructure and turrets were removed, leaving the ship in its current state—a somber memorial to those who perished.
The USS Arizona became an iconic war grave, with the remains of the crew left aboard the ship. This decision was made out of respect for the fallen heroes and to honor their final resting place. It is a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the American military during one of the most significant events of the 20th century.
The aftermath of the USS Arizona serves as a powerful testament to the historical significance and cultural impact of the Pearl Harbor attack. The ship has become a symbol of remembrance, embodying the spirit of patriotism and the dedication of those who served.
For those interested in learning more about the USS Arizona and the events of Pearl Harbor, there are numerous resources available, including historical documentaries, museum exhibits, and academic papers. Exploring these sources can provide a deeper understanding of the complexities and aftermath of this tragic event.
Conclusion
The decision not to salvage the USS Arizona after the Pearl Harbor attack was a strategic and emotional choice. The ship remains a powerful symbol of the human cost and the enduring legacy of that fateful day. Its importance in American history and the respect shown to the fallen sailors ensure that the USS Arizona continues to be a significant landmark and a source of reflection and remembrance.