WORLD WAR II and POST WAR SERVICE
USS Iowa BB-61
The Lead Ship of the Iowa-Class Battleship
Commissioned in 1943, the USS Iowa (BB-61) was a formidable force in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Designed for speed, firepower, and leadership, she played a vital role in major operations across the Pacific, including the Marshall Islands, Marianas, and Okinawa campaigns. Iowa provided critical naval gunfire support, served as flagship for the Third Fleet, and safely transported President Franklin D. Roosevelt to meet with Allied leaders during the Tehran Conference — earning her the nickname the “Battleship of Presidents.” With her massive 16-inch guns and advanced technology, she helped shape the path to victory and earned nine battle stars during WWII alone. Today, her legacy lives on as a symbol of strength, service, and American resolve.
Top WWII and Post War Moments
- February 22, 1943: Commissioned as the lead ship of the Iowa class.
- November 1943: Carried President Roosevelt to the Tehran Conference.
- Jan–Feb 1944: Bombarded Kwajalein and Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands.
- June 1944: Fought in the Marianas and Battle of the Philippine Sea.
- October 1944: Participated in support of Leyte operations (not as flagship).
- December 1944: Survived Typhoon Cobra that sank three U.S. destroyers.
- January 1945: Supported strikes on Formosa and the Chinese coast.
- Feb–Mar 1945: Fired on Iwo Jima in support of Marine landings.
- Apr–June 1945: Shelled Okinawa in the war’s bloodiest campaign.
- August 1945: Served as Halsey’s flagship and radio ship for surrender ceremonies aboard USS Missouri.
- March 1949: Decommissioned
Inactivation Begins in San Francisco CA
Captain Bennett M. Dodson, USN Becomes Commanding Officer
Placed Out of Commission & Into Reserve
