The 16-Inch Triple Monster Battleship

USS Missouri: The Last American Battleship

The USS Missouri, the fourth Iowa-class battleship, was ordered in June 1940 and holds the distinction of being the last American battleship ever commissioned. Although two more ships in the class were laid down, they never entered service, cementing Missouri’s place in U.S. Navy history.

Key Role in Iwo Jima and Okinawa

During World War II, Missouri played a vital role in supporting Allied forces. In the Iwo Jima invasion, she provided anti-aircraft defense by shooting down enemy planes and escorting carriers. At Okinawa, her guns were even more active, taking down five enemy aircraft and sharing credit for six more.

Surviving a Kamikaze Attack

In a dramatic encounter, a Japanese kamikaze pilot crashed into Missouri’s hull, spilling gasoline across the deck and igniting a fire. Thanks to the quick action of the crew, the blaze was extinguished before it could cause significant damage, allowing the ship to remain fully operational.

Witness to Japan’s Surrender and the Korean War

USS Missouri earned its place in history when it was chosen to host Japan’s official surrender ceremony after the atomic bombings, marking the end of World War II. Later, during the Korean War, Missouri became the first American ship to enter Korean waters, using its firepower to support the Incheon landings.

Reactivation, Operation Desert Storm, and Final Retirement

Although Missouri was retired and became a popular tourist attraction, it was reactivated under President Reagan’s program to modernize the fleet. The ship received new weapons, including Tomahawk and Harpoon missiles, and was brought back into action during Operation Desert Storm, where it launched 28 Tomahawk missiles and fired hundreds of shells.

After a final retirement, the USS Missouri found a permanent home as a museum ship at Pearl Harbor, where it now stands as a guardian overlooking the USS Arizona Memorial.