The USS Missouri stands as one of the most celebrated battleships in American naval history. This mighty vessel played crucial roles throughout World War II’s Pacific Theater, from fierce battles against Japanese forces to hosting the formal surrender ceremony that ended the war.
Understanding the USS Missouri’s contributions helps us appreciate the sacrifices made by naval personnel during World War II. This remarkable vessel continues to serve as a floating museum and memorial, allowing visitors to walk through history and honor those who served aboard her decks.
Let’s explore the history of the USS Missouri to learn about her role in the Pacific Theater during WWII and her lasting legacy.
The USS Missouri, also known as “Mighty Mo,” was the last battleship built by the United States, named after US Senator Harry S. Truman, who went on to become president in 1945. Construction began at the Brooklyn Navy Yard in New York on January 6, 1941, with thousands of workers contributing to her massive frame. The ship measured 887 feet in length and displaced over 58,000 tons when fully loaded for combat operations.
The USS Missouri entered the Pacific Fleet on June 11, 1944, ready to support American forces in their push toward Japan. The battleship moored at Pearl Harbor in Oahu, Hawaii, in December of 1944 and departed for the Pacific Theater the following month.
The USS Missouri arrived in the Pacific Theater during World War II just in time to support the crucial Iwo Jima campaign in early 1945. The battleship joined Task Force (TF) 58 along with several carriers and destroyers and provided crucial fire support for American troops landing on the heavily fortified island. The USS Missouri successfully struck down Japanese aircraft, contributing to the United States’ victory and capture of the island.
The Battle of Okinawa represented the largest Pacific campaign of World War II, and the USS Missouri played a significant role in supporting American ground forces. The ship arrived off Okinawa in March of 1945 and immediately began providing naval gunfire support for the invasion forces.
The USS Missouri also provided crucial cover for the Franklin carrier ship after she sustained significant damage. As a temporary member of TF 59 with sister ships New Jersey and Wisconsin, Missouri successfully bombarded the southern coast of Okinawa before returning to TF 58.4 on April 1, 1945.
On April 11, 1945, the USS Missouri faced one of her most dangerous moments when a Japanese kamikaze pilot targeted the battleship during operations near Okinawa. The enemy aircraft crashed into the ship’s starboard side, causing damage but failing to penetrate her armored hull. Swift action by the crew prevented fires from spreading and kept the ship operational throughout the attack. The kamikaze strike killed the Japanese pilot instantly, and the ship’s crew held a brief military funeral for the pilot before continuing their mission.
Following the successful capture of Okinawa, the USS Missouri joined Task Force 38 for direct attacks against the Japanese home islands. The battleship participated in bombardment missions against industrial facilities such as steel mills and aircraft factories on Honshū and Hokkaidō during July and August 1945. These attacks aimed to weaken Japan’s remaining military capacity and demonstrate American resolve to continue fighting until Japan surrendered.
The USS Missouri achieved her greatest historical significance when she hosted the Japanese surrender ceremony on September 2, 1945. General Douglas MacArthur selected the battleship to serve as the site for this momentous occasion in Tokyo Bay. The ceremony marked the formal end of World War II and established the USS Missouri as a symbol of Allied victory. Representatives from Japan, the United States, and other Allied nations gathered on the ship’s main deck for the historic event.
The surrender ceremony took place at 9:00 AM local time with MacArthur presiding over the proceedings. Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu and General Yoshijiro Umezu signed the surrender documents on behalf of their government. The USS Missouri’s role as the surrender site cemented her place in history and made her a symbol of American victory in the Pacific Theater.
After World War II ended, the USS Missouri continued serving the United States Navy for several more decades. The battleship participated in the Korean War, providing fire support for United Nations forces fighting against North Korean and Chinese armies. The USS Missouri also served during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, launching Tomahawk cruise missiles against Iraqi targets. 1992 marked the end of the ship’s service after decades of operation.
The USS Missouri represents American naval power and the victory achieved through tremendous sacrifice during World War II. The battleship serves as a memorial to the thousands of sailors, soldiers, and civilians who died during the Pacific War.
Following her decommission, the USS Missouri found a permanent home at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 1998, where she became a museum and memorial in 1999. Today, the USS Missouri is a monumental landmark, welcoming visitors to walk her decks, learn about her storied history, and pay respect to the bravery and sacrifices of those who served aboard. The ship continues to inspire new generations, connecting them to pivotal moments in history and the enduring legacy of peace it represents.
Experiencing the USS Missouri firsthand provides visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to explore this historic battleship. Tours of the vessel allow guests to walk the same decks where the Japanese surrender ceremony took place and World War II officially ended. Visitors can explore the ship’s main deck, crew quarters, engine rooms, and gun turrets while learning about naval operations during World War II.
Knowledgeable guides share stories about the ship’s service, crew members, and significant battles throughout the Pacific Theater. The experience provides valuable insights into naval warfare, engineering, and the sacrifices made by American servicemen during the war. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for American naval history and the sacrifices made to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.
The USS Missouri continues serving her country as a floating museum that honors the memory of those who fought in World War II. Learning about her history helps us understand the sacrifices made by American servicemen and the importance of preserving their memory for future generations.
Experiencing the USS Missouri firsthand through a Pearl Harbor Missouri tour offers visitors the chance to walk through history and honor those who served. Book your tour of the USS Missouri through Pearlharbortour.org for an unforgettable experience that brings the history of World War II to life.