USS Missouri

The USS Missouri was launched in January 1944 and took part in the Pacific Campaign of the Second World War. Heavily involved in the Okinawa battles, she was also involved in the bombardment of the Japanese Home Islands. On the 2nd September 1945, General MacArthur and Japanese representatives signed the Japanese surrender on the decks of the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.

After the Second World War, the 'Mighty Mo' took part in the Korean War being used to bombard North Korean forces and supply lines. In 1955 she returned to the USA and entered the fleet reserve. In 1984, she was refitted as part of the 600 ship Navy plan, and provided with Harpoon anti-ship missiles, Tomahawk cruise missiles and Phalanx close defence gatling guns to supplement her original nine 16" guns. On 17th January 1991, she launched the first of 18 Cruise Missiles against Iraq and provided bombardment support during the Gulf War.

Decommissioned in 1992, the 'Mighty Mo' was transferred to the USS Missouri Memorial Association in Honolulu in 1998. In January 1999, she opened as a Museum ship next to the USS Arizona Memorial.