The USS Arizona: Memorial, Preservation, and Its Current Condition

The USS Arizona, a historically significant battleship, was lost during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This battle resulted in the complete loss of the ship and the lives of 1177 crew members. Since its sinking, the USS Arizona has undergone various stages—from salvage efforts, to memorialization, and current preservation measures. This article explores the journey of this iconic vessel and its enduring legacy.

After the Sinking

The immediate aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor saw several salvage operations. Various efforts were made to recover parts of the ship and its ammunition. However, these attempts were hampered by the complexities and high costs associated with fully salvaging the wreck.

Salvage Efforts

Following the attack, several salvage operations were carried out, but the ship itself was not fully recovered due to the significant challenges involved. These efforts primarily focused on recovering parts of the ship and its ammunition, rather than the entire vessel.

Memorialization

In recognition of the sacrifices made during this tragic event, the USS Arizona Memorial was dedicated on May 30, 1962. The memorial is built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona and serves as a powerful tribute to those who lost their lives. It is a significant historical site, drawing visitors from around the world to pay their respects and gain a deeper understanding of the events that occurred during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Current Condition

As of August 2023, the USS Arizona remains submerged, and no plans have been made to raise the wreck from the water for repairs or restoration. The condition of the ship is deteriorating slowly due to corrosion and the natural processes affecting submerged vessels. Both the U.S. Navy and the National Park Service monitor the site, ensuring that the memorial and the surrounding area are preserved.

Preservation Efforts

The environmental conditions at the bottom of Pearl Harbor pose a significant challenge to the preservation of the USS Arizona. Factors such as water temperature, salinity, and marine growth contribute to its gradual deterioration. Furthermore, the actual hull of the ship is not accessible for restoration efforts, as it lies too deep and in a state too compromised to be lifted and refurbished. The loss of nearly the entire crew has made it impossible to consider striking it from the registry, thus ensuring its place as a constant reminder of that fateful day.

Conclusion

In summary, the USS Arizona remains submerged at Pearl Harbor, serving as both a historical memorial and a symbol of the sacrifices made during the attack. Despite the efforts to salvage parts of the ship, the hull itself remains an integral part of the site, contributing to its significance and enduring legacy.