December 7, 1941: A Day of Infamy
The attack on Pearl Harbor by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, is one of the most pivotal moments in American history. The surprise assault on the United States naval base in Hawaii resulted in significant loss of life and extensive damage to the American Pacific Fleet. Among the devastation, five ships were sunk, each with its own unique story and sacrifice.
USS Arizona (BB-39)
The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that was commissioned in 1915. On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Arizona was moored at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, awaiting a scheduled trip to the West Coast. At 8:06 a.m., a Japanese Nakajima B5N bomber dropped a 1,760-pound armor-piercing bomb onto the Arizona’s deck, which detonated the ship’s forward magazine. The resulting explosion and fire killed 1,177 crew members, accounting for nearly half of the total American fatalities that day.
⚠️ Note: The USS Arizona Memorial, built over the sunken ship, is one of the most iconic and emotional landmarks in Hawaii, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
USS Oklahoma (BB-37)
The USS Oklahoma was a Nevada-class battleship that was commissioned in 1914. During the attack, the Oklahoma was moored at Ford Island, adjacent to the USS Maryland. The ship was struck by four Japanese torpedoes, causing significant damage and flooding. As the crew attempted to stabilize the ship, a fifth torpedo hit the Oklahoma, causing it to capsize. The USS Oklahoma suffered the second-highest number of fatalities, with 415 crew members losing their lives.
USS California (BB-44)
The USS California was a Tennessee-class battleship that was commissioned in 1921. On the morning of December 7, 1941, the California was moored at Ford Island, preparing for a scheduled trip to the United States mainland. The ship was struck by two Japanese torpedoes, followed by a bomb that detonated the ship’s fuel tanks. As the California slowly sank, the crew fought to save as many lives as possible. Despite their efforts, 100 crew members lost their lives.
USS West Virginia (BB-48)
The USS West Virginia was a Colorado-class battleship that was commissioned in 1923. During the attack, the West Virginia was moored at Ford Island, next to the USS Tennessee. The ship was struck by two Japanese torpedoes, followed by a bomb that caused significant damage. As the crew attempted to stabilize the ship, a third torpedo hit the West Virginia, causing it to sink. The USS West Virginia suffered 106 fatalities.
USS Utah (AG-16)
The USS Utah was a Florida-class battleship that was converted into a target ship in 1931. On the morning of December 7, 1941, the Utah was moored at Ford Island, awaiting a scheduled trip to the West Coast. The ship was struck by two Japanese torpedoes, which caused significant damage. As the crew attempted to abandon ship, a third torpedo hit the Utah, causing it to capsize and sink. The USS Utah suffered 58 fatalities.
What was the significance of the USS Arizona's sinking?
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The USS Arizona's sinking resulted in the loss of 1,177 lives, making it the deadliest ship in terms of casualties during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The USS Arizona Memorial, built over the sunken ship, is a testament to the sacrifices made that day.
How many ships were sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor?
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Five ships were sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor: the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, USS California, USS West Virginia, and USS Utah.
What was the overall impact of the attack on Pearl Harbor?
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The attack on Pearl Harbor resulted in the United States' entry into World War II, leading to a significant shift in the global balance of power. The attack also led to a massive mobilization effort, as the United States rapidly expanded its military capabilities to counter the Axis powers.
What is the significance of the USS Oklahoma's sinking?
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The USS Oklahoma's sinking resulted in the loss of 415 lives, making it the second-deadliest ship in terms of casualties during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The USS Oklahoma Memorial, built on Ford Island, honors the sacrifices of the crew.
What was the fate of the survivors of the sunken ships?
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The survivors of the sunken ships were rescued and treated for their injuries. Many survivors went on to serve in other roles during World War II, while others returned to civilian life.
The sinking of the five ships at Pearl Harbor serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in the United States military during World War II. The bravery and resilience of the crew members who fought to save their ships and their fellow sailors will never be forgotten. As we remember the events of that fateful day, we honor the memory of those who lost their lives and those who survived to tell the story.
