The USS Nevada: A Prelude to the Atomic Age

The USS Nevada, one of the legendary participants in World War II and its aftermath, has an intriguing story that intertwines with some of the most pivotal moments in modern military history. This article delves into the fate of this mighty battleship, from the pivotal bombing at Pearl Harbor to its eventual sinking as a target during Operation Crossroads.

Surviving the horrors of Pearl Harbor

During the infamous bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the USS Nevada managed to escape destruction, earning its place in naval history. Despite the heavy damage inflicted upon it, the ship was successful in moving to the safety of the harbor where it took up defensive positions. This initial battle marked the beginning of a series of events that would shape the ship’s later destiny.

A Baptism of Fire at Bikini Atoll

After the war, in an era still reeling from the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the USS Nevada played a pivotal role in the development of nuclear weaponry. In 1946, it was selected as the primary target for the first series of atomic bomb tests conducted at Bikini Atoll as part of Operation Crossroads.

Preparations for these tests were meticulous. Nevada was repainted in an eye-catching orange to designate it as the target ship for the first airburst shot, codenamed Able. During this test, the ship barely escaped disintegration, remaining intact and operable, albeit highly radioactive. Another underwater detonation, named Baker, also failed to sink the ship, with an airborne observer reporting the explosion actually lifting the ship clear of the water.

Target Ship's Trials in 1948

Though it had weathered initial atomic bomb tests, Nevada’s days as a fighting force were numbered. In 1948, the ship was towed near Oahu to be sunk as a target in a naval training exercise. This involved a series of intense bombardments that aimed to test new naval tactics and strategies, with an explosion designed to initiate a torpedo strike.

On July 26, 1948, a powerful new explosive device tested aboard Nevada failed to cause significant damage. On July 31, despite having combat crews and emerging from the attacks relatively unscathed, Nevada was positioned to be sunk by naval gunfire from the modern battleship USS Iowa and three light cruisers. However, neither the 16-inch and 6-inch guns launched from afar nor the 5-inch gunfire from destroyers could sink the formidable vessel. It was only after a torpedo from an Avenger bomber struck the starboard side amidships that the ship began to list. Slowly at first, and then abruptly, Nevada capsized and sank in 2600 fathoms of water 165 miles southwest of Pearl Harbor.

A Vindication of Naval Ingenuity

The toughness and resilience of the USS Nevada were a testament to the engineers and shipbuilders who designed and constructed such formidable vessels. Its survival through multiple adversities and the ultimate role it played in shaping naval warfare further underscored the importance of proper planning and preparation in modern military endeavors.

Today, the story of the USS Nevada serves as a powerful reminder of the technological advancements made during World War II and the lessons learned from such significant historical events. It is a story that highlights the engineering prowess and determined spirit of the sailors who defended their nation and contributed to the development of the modern military.