What Ship Sank at Pearl Harbor?
The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, was a pivotal moment in World War II. The Japanese attack on the US naval base in Hawaii resulted in significant damage and loss of life. While the attack is often associated with the sinking of the USS Arizona, it's important to remember that several other ships were sunk during this devastating event.
Ships Sunk at Pearl Harbor:
The following ships were sunk during the attack on Pearl Harbor:
- USS Arizona: This battleship was the most iconic victim of the attack, with over 1,100 sailors losing their lives. The ship remains at the bottom of the harbor, serving as a memorial to the fallen.
- USS Oklahoma: This battleship capsized after being hit by torpedoes and bombs, resulting in the loss of over 400 lives.
- USS Utah: This target ship, a former battleship, was sunk by torpedoes.
- USS California: This battleship was heavily damaged and subsequently sunk in shallow water. It was later salvaged and returned to service.
- USS West Virginia: This battleship sustained significant damage from torpedoes and bombs. Despite efforts to salvage it, the ship was eventually declared a total loss.
Other Ships Damaged:
In addition to the ships that were sunk, numerous other vessels were heavily damaged during the attack. These included:
- USS Nevada: This battleship was able to escape the harbor, but it was heavily damaged by Japanese fire.
- USS Pennsylvania: This battleship was in dry dock during the attack and sustained minimal damage.
- USS Maryland: This battleship was damaged by torpedoes and bombs, but it was later repaired and returned to service.
- USS Tennessee: This battleship was damaged by torpedoes and bombs, but it was also later repaired and returned to service.
The Impact of the Pearl Harbor Attack:
The sinking of these ships, along with the destruction of aircraft and other facilities at Pearl Harbor, had a significant impact on the United States. The attack galvanized American public opinion and led to the country's entry into World War II.
Lessons Learned:
The attack on Pearl Harbor served as a wake-up call for the United States and led to significant changes in military strategy and defense planning. The event underscored the importance of intelligence gathering, maintaining a strong naval presence, and being prepared for unexpected attacks.
Conclusion:
While the USS Arizona is the most well-known ship that sank at Pearl Harbor, it's important to remember the other vessels that were lost during this devastating event. The attack had a profound impact on the course of World War II and continues to be a significant historical event.