The Unyielding Legacy Of USS Wisconsin: A Battleship's Epic Saga

Morton Hoeger 26 Jun 2025

The roar of naval guns, the spray of the Pacific, and the unwavering resolve of a nation at war – these are the indelible images evoked by the mere mention of the USS Wisconsin. Commissioned in 1944, this majestic vessel stands as a testament to American industrial might and naval prowess, having served with distinction across three major conflicts. Her story is not just one of steel and firepower, but of the countless individuals who served aboard her, shaping history with every salvo fired and every mile traversed.

From the harrowing campaigns of World War II to the tense standoff of the Korean War and even a dramatic return for the Gulf War, the USS Wisconsin, designated BB-64, carved an unparalleled path through naval history. She is not merely a relic of a bygone era but a living monument, inviting visitors to step aboard and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of her past. Her journey from a formidable warship to a beloved museum ship in Norfolk, Virginia, encapsulates a narrative of power, resilience, and enduring legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Birth of a Giant: Commissioning and Early Life
- Design and Specifications
A Titan in the Pacific: World War II Service
- Key Engagements and Contributions
From Decommissioning to Reactivation: The Korean War Era
A Brief Respite and Final Call: The Gulf War and Decommissioning
- The Last Shots Fired in Anger
Surviving the Elements: Resilience and Reputation
The Enduring Legacy: USS Wisconsin as a Museum Ship
- Nauticus and the Visitor Experience
Joining the Ranks: Preserving History
Why the USS Wisconsin Continues to Captivate

The Birth of a Giant: Commissioning and Early Life

The story of the USS Wisconsin begins in the crucible of World War II. As the United States rapidly expanded its naval fleet to meet the demands of a global conflict, the Iowa-class battleships emerged as the pinnacle of naval engineering. The USS Wisconsin, the second of her class to be commissioned, officially entered service on April 16, 1944. Her commissioning was a pivotal moment, marking the addition of a truly formidable warship to the U.S. Navy's arsenal. Under the command of Captain Earl E. Stone, the ship promptly held her initial trials in the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, preparing for the intense duties that lay ahead.

Built with an eye towards speed, firepower, and resilience, the USS Wisconsin was designed to be a dominant force on the high seas. Her construction represented a monumental effort, leveraging the full capabilities of American industry. Upon completion, she was immediately assigned to the Pacific Theater, where the war against Japan was raging fiercely. This immediate deployment underscored the urgency and critical need for such powerful vessels in the ongoing conflict. Her very presence was a statement of intent, a symbol of American might ready to be projected across vast ocean expanses.

Design and Specifications

The Iowa-class battleships, including the USS Wisconsin, were marvels of engineering for their time. At a length of 887 feet and a beam of 108 feet, they were among the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy. Fully loaded, the USS Wisconsin displaced approximately 58,000 tons, a testament to her immense size and robust construction. Her primary armament consisted of nine 16-inch/50 caliber Mark 7 guns, capable of firing armor-piercing shells weighing over 2,700 pounds up to 23 miles. These colossal guns were her signature feature, earning her the nickname "Big Wisky" among her crews.

Beyond her main battery, the USS Wisconsin was also equipped with twenty 5-inch/38 caliber dual-purpose guns for anti-aircraft and anti-surface defense, along with numerous Bofors 40 mm and Oerlikon 20 mm anti-aircraft cannons. Her powerful propulsion system, driven by eight boilers and four geared steam turbines, allowed her to reach speeds exceeding 33 knots, making her one of the fastest battleships in the world. This combination of speed, heavy armor, and overwhelming firepower made the USS Wisconsin an unparalleled asset, capable of both offensive bombardment and defensive screening for carrier task forces.

A Titan in the Pacific: World War II Service

Upon reporting for duty in the Pacific, the USS Wisconsin swiftly plunged into the heart of World War II. Her role was primarily to provide powerful gunfire support for Allied troops and to screen fast carrier task forces. She was a crucial component in some of the most intense and pivotal engagements of the war, showcasing her immense capabilities and contributing significantly to the Allied victory.

Her service in the Pacific Theater was marked by participation in several key operations. The USS Wisconsin reached the Pacific to serve in combat, where she was immediately assigned to the Third Fleet. She quickly made her presence known in the Philippines Campaign, providing vital support to ground forces. Her heavy guns pounded enemy positions, softening defenses and clearing the way for amphibious assaults. This direct involvement in land operations highlighted the versatility and destructive power of a battleship.

Key Engagements and Contributions

The USS Wisconsin's wartime record is studded with significant battles. She participated in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, two of the bloodiest and most fiercely contested campaigns of the Pacific War. At Iwo Jima, her 16-inch guns provided relentless bombardment, preparing the island for the Marine landings and suppressing Japanese resistance. Similarly, during the Okinawa campaign, she continued her vital role of shore bombardment, delivering precision fire against enemy fortifications and troop concentrations. Her ability to deliver massive amounts of ordnance with accuracy proved indispensable in these island-hopping campaigns.

Beyond direct shore bombardment, the USS Wisconsin also played a crucial role in the final bombardments of the Japanese homelands. As the war drew to a close, she was part of the fleet that brought the war directly to Japan's shores, engaging coastal targets and industrial sites. Her powerful guns served as a constant reminder of the overwhelming force arrayed against the Japanese Empire. Throughout her World War II service, the USS Wisconsin earned five battle stars, a testament to her extensive involvement and significant contributions to the Allied victory. Her operational record during this period showcases her as a truly resilient and effective warship, always on the ready, waiting to be called upon for the next critical mission.

From Decommissioning to Reactivation: The Korean War Era

With the cessation of hostilities in World War II, many of the U.S. Navy's mighty warships, including battleships, were deemed surplus to immediate requirements. The USS Wisconsin was no exception. After her intense service in the Pacific, she was briefly decommissioned on July 1, 1948, and placed into the Atlantic Reserve Fleet, a period often referred to as being "in mothballs." This was a common fate for many vessels as the nation transitioned from wartime production to peacetime operations.

However, the global geopolitical landscape quickly shifted, and the outbreak of the Korean War in June 1950 necessitated the rapid reactivation of many naval assets. The unique capabilities of battleships, particularly their heavy guns for shore bombardment, proved invaluable in the Korean conflict. Thus, the USS Wisconsin was reactivated on March 3, 1951, less than three years after her initial decommissioning. She was once again called to serve her country as a most formidable warship.

Upon her return to active duty, the USS Wisconsin was deployed to the Korean Peninsula, where she provided crucial fire support to United Nations forces. Her 16-inch guns were again put to use, bombarding enemy positions along the coast, disrupting supply lines, and supporting ground troops. She earned an additional battle star for her service in the Korean War, bringing her total to six battle stars across her career. Her ability to deliver devastatingly accurate fire from a safe distance made her an indispensable asset in the static trench warfare that characterized much of the Korean conflict. After two tours of duty in Korea, the USS Wisconsin returned to the reserve fleet in 1958, entering a period of extended inactivity that would last for decades.

A Brief Respite and Final Call: The Gulf War and Decommissioning

For over three decades, the USS Wisconsin remained in the reserve fleet, a silent giant waiting for a call that many believed would never come. However, the 1980s saw a renewed interest in reactivating the Iowa-class battleships as part of President Reagan's "600-ship Navy" initiative. Equipped with modern missile systems and updated electronics, these battleships were seen as cost-effective ways to project power globally. The USS Wisconsin was reactivated for a second time on October 22, 1988, undergoing extensive modernization to integrate Tomahawk cruise missiles and Phalanx CIWS (Close-in Weapon System) for defense.

Her final call to action came with the onset of the Persian Gulf War in 1991. The USS Wisconsin was deployed to the Persian Gulf as part of Operation Desert Storm. Her mission was to provide naval gunfire support and launch Tomahawk missiles against Iraqi targets. This deployment marked a significant chapter in her storied history, showcasing her adaptability to modern warfare while still leveraging her traditional strengths.

The Last Shots Fired in Anger

During Operation Desert Storm, the USS Wisconsin achieved a unique and poignant distinction: she holds the distinction of being the last battleship in history to fire shots in anger. On February 4, 1991, she fired her 16-inch guns at Iraqi artillery positions in Kuwait, marking the final time a battleship's main battery would be used in combat. She also launched 24 Tomahawk missiles against Iraqi targets, demonstrating her updated capabilities. This final act of combat cemented her place in naval lore, a powerful symbol of an era drawing to a close.

Following the successful conclusion of the Gulf War, the era of the battleship truly came to an end. The USS Wisconsin was finally decommissioned for the last time on September 30, 1991, at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. She was struck from the Naval Vessel Register on March 17, 2006, marking her official removal from the U.S. Navy's active and reserve lists. Her decommissioning represented the final curtain call for the battleship as a frontline warship, leaving behind a legacy of power, endurance, and unparalleled service.

Surviving the Elements: Resilience and Reputation

Beyond her combat record, the USS Wisconsin also earned a reputation for her remarkable resilience, particularly in facing the unforgiving forces of nature. Throughout her long career, she survived typhoons and other severe weather conditions, a testament to her robust construction and the skill of her crews. These encounters with the elements were not mere inconveniences; they were tests of the ship's structural integrity and the crew's ability to maintain control in extreme circumstances. Her ability to weather such storms only added to her formidable reputation, showcasing that she was not just a powerful warship but an incredibly durable one.

The USS Wisconsin's reputation was built not only on her ability to bombard enemy positions and survive typhoons but also on the collective experience of those who served aboard her. From her commissioning in April 1944, she was seen as a symbol of strength and reliability. Her crews, often referring to her as "Big Wisky," developed a deep sense of pride and camaraderie, knowing they were part of something truly exceptional. This shared experience forged a bond that continues to this day through various veteran associations dedicated to preserving her history and honoring her service. The ship itself, with its massive presence and storied past, has a bit of a reputation, a mystique that draws people in and leaves a lasting impression.

The Enduring Legacy: USS Wisconsin as a Museum Ship

Even after her final decommissioning, the story of the USS Wisconsin was far from over. Recognizing her immense historical significance and the public's enduring fascination with these giants of the sea, efforts were made to preserve her as a museum. Today, the USS Wisconsin is open for tours in Norfolk, Virginia, serving as a powerful educational tool and a popular tourist attraction. Her transformation from a warship to a museum ship ensures that her legacy continues to inspire and educate future generations about naval history, technological advancements, and the sacrifices made by those who served.

Visiting the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, VA, is an unforgettable experience. This massive battleship, rich in history and military significance, offers a fascinating glimpse into naval warfare and life at sea. Visitors can explore various decks, walk through the captain's bridge, and stand beside the colossal 16-inch guns that once roared in battle. The sheer scale of the ship is awe-inspiring, providing a tangible connection to the past and the incredible engineering feats of the era. Each participant must purchase an admission ticket to participate in the tour, ensuring the continued maintenance and preservation of this national treasure.

Nauticus and the Visitor Experience

The USS Wisconsin is a centerpiece of Nauticus, a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown Norfolk. Nauticus offers a unique form of experiential learning for all ages, using the museum, the battleship Wisconsin, a sailing center, and the schooner Virginia to tell the comprehensive story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Through interactive exhibits and STEM-to-stern programming, Nauticus provides an immersive educational experience that goes beyond simply walking through a ship.

Exhibits on board the USS Wisconsin and within Nauticus delve into the ship's history, her features, and the daily lives of her crew. Visitors can see exhibits, take guided tours, and even participate in overnight programs, offering a truly unique perspective on life aboard a battleship. This integrated approach allows visitors to not only see the ship but also understand its context within naval history and its impact on the world. The goal is to maintain the history and to participate in decisions regarding the disposition of this iconic ship, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

Joining the Ranks: Preserving History

The preservation of the USS Wisconsin's history is not solely the responsibility of institutions like Nauticus; it is also passionately championed by dedicated individuals and associations. Organizations such as the USS Wisconsin Association play a vital role in maintaining the ship's legacy, connecting former crew members, and supporting educational initiatives. These associations are instrumental in gathering and documenting personal stories, photos, and details of her operations, battles, cruises, and decommissioning, enriching the historical record for everyone.

You, too, can be part of the history of this ship by joining such associations or by simply visiting and supporting the museum. The continued interest and support from the public are crucial for ensuring that the USS Wisconsin remains a vibrant and accessible historical artifact. By participating in tours, attending events, or contributing to preservation efforts, individuals directly contribute to keeping the memory of this magnificent battleship and the sacrifices of her crews alive. This collective effort ensures that the story of the USS Wisconsin, from her commissioning in 1944 to her current role as a museum, continues to be told with accuracy and passion.

Why the USS Wisconsin Continues to Captivate

The enduring allure of the USS Wisconsin stems from several profound factors. Firstly, she represents the zenith of battleship design, a class of warship that dominated naval strategy for decades. Her sheer size and formidable armament speak volumes about a bygone era of naval power projection. Secondly, her active service across three major American wars—World War II, the Korean War, and the Persian Gulf War—gives her a unique historical breadth. She was present at pivotal moments, from the brutal island-hopping campaigns of the Pacific to the "last shots fired in anger" by a battleship, making her a direct witness to significant historical events.

Furthermore, her transition from active duty to a museum ship allows for a direct, tangible connection to history. Unlike many historical artifacts that are behind glass, visitors can walk the decks where sailors once served, touch the steel that withstood enemy fire, and stand in the shadow of guns that shaped the course of battles. This immersive experience fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices made and the technological advancements achieved. The USS Wisconsin is not just a collection of steel plates; she is a vessel brimming with stories, courage, and the unyielding spirit of those who served on her. Her reputation, built on power, resilience, and a storied past, ensures that she remains a source of fascination and respect for generations to come.

Conclusion

The USS Wisconsin stands as a monumental testament to American naval engineering and the unwavering spirit of its service members. From her commissioning in April 1944, through the brutal battles of World War II, her critical role in the Korean War, and her dramatic final deployment in the Gulf War where she fired the last shots of a battleship in anger, her journey is one of unparalleled historical significance. She survived typhoons, bombarded enemy positions, and earned six battle stars, cementing her legacy as one of the most formidable warships ever built.

Today, as a cherished museum ship at Nauticus in Norfolk, Virginia, the USS Wisconsin continues to educate and inspire. Her presence allows us to step back in time, understand the complexities of naval warfare, and honor the brave men and women who served aboard her. We encourage you to experience this majestic ship firsthand. Visit the USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, explore her decks, and immerse yourself in her incredible story. Share this article with friends and family who might be interested in naval history, and consider joining associations dedicated to preserving her legacy. Your engagement helps ensure that the epic saga of the USS Wisconsin continues to resonate for generations to come.

USS Wisconsin | The Vacation Channel

Heritage — USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association, Inc.

Rural Report