1776Reporting
The USS Wisconsin (BB-64) stands as a testament to the might and endurance of America’s naval power. This Iowa-class battleship, affectionately known as “Wisky,” served with distinction across decades and conflicts, leaving a legacy of resilience and firepower. Among her many storied moments, her explosive retaliation during the Korean War remains one of the most memorable.
A Warship Built for Greatness
The USS Wisconsin was one of the last battleships ever constructed by the United States. Designed in 1938 and laid down at the Philadelphia Navy Yard in January 1941, she emerged as a symbol of innovation and strength. Launched on December 7, 1943—exactly two years after the attack on Pearl Harbor—Wisky was a marvel of her time. Armed with nine 16-inch/50 caliber guns capable of launching 2,700-pound shells over 20 miles, she was a floating fortress.
Initially equipped with a staggering array of anti-aircraft guns, the battleship later received modern upgrades, including Tomahawk and Harpoon missile launchers, and advanced defense systems like the Phalanx CIWS.
Making Her Mark in World War II
Though she joined the war late, USS Wisconsin wasted no time proving her worth. She was attached to Admiral William Halsey’s Third Fleet in late 1944, where she played a key role in softening Japanese defenses during the invasion of the Philippines.
One of her earliest tests came not from the enemy, but nature. In December 1944, the battleship braved the infamous Typhoon Cobra, a storm so severe it sank three destroyers. Miraculously, Wisconsin emerged unscathed, with only minor injuries to her crew. Later, she supported the invasion of Iwo Jima and bombarded enemy positions in Japan, demonstrating her devastating firepower.
A Fiery Encounter in Korea
Reactivated during the Korean War, USS Wisconsin once again proved her mettle. In March 1952, while targeting North Korean artillery near Songjin, she came under enemy fire. Despite being struck by 155 mm shells, Wisky sustained only minor damage and suffered three injured sailors.
Her response was swift and overwhelming. Firing a thunderous broadside, Wisconsin obliterated the enemy position. Her escort, the USS Buck (DD-761), sent a cheeky message that summed up the moment perfectly: “TEMPER TEMPER.”
Though this fiery exchange is more legend than detailed record, it underscores the battleship’s reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Collision and Comeback
After the Korean War, the USS Wisconsin transitioned to peacetime roles, including training and serving as a flagship. However, her service was not without incident. In 1956, she collided with the USS Eaton in dense fog, suffering severe damage to her bow. In an extraordinary display of efficiency, her bow was replaced with one from the unfinished USS Kentucky, and she was back in action within weeks.
A Final Salvo in the Gulf War
Decades later, Wisconsin returned to duty under President Reagan’s ambitious “600-ship Navy” initiative. Modernized with cutting-edge technology, she played a critical role in Operation Desert Storm. Launching Tomahawk missiles at Iraqi targets, she became a symbol of precision warfare. For the first time in nearly four decades, her guns roared again, providing support for coalition forces.
Legacy of the Mighty Wisconsin
From the typhoons of the Pacific to the sands of Kuwait, the USS Wisconsin left an indelible mark on naval history. Her six battle stars and Navy Unit Commendation reflect her extraordinary contributions. Today, Wisky rests as a museum ship in Norfolk, Virginia, where visitors can walk her decks and imagine the thunderous might of a battleship that never backed down.
The USS Wisconsin wasn’t just a warship—it was a warrior.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings