Known as “Big J” and America’s most decorated battleship, the USS New Jersey (BB-62) has a storied history filled with remarkable achievements. Recently dry-docked for a major $10 million refurbishment, this 45,000-ton icon¹ has returned to its permanent home on the Camden waterfront², ready for visitors to explore its legacy firsthand.
Here are 11 defining moments in the journey of the USS New Jersey.
1. Keel Laid – September 16, 1940
The USS New Jersey’s journey began when its keel was laid down at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard on September 16, 1940. The keel is the central backbone of a ship, and laying it marks the official start of the ship’s construction.
The USS New Jersey was one of four Iowa-class battleships built during this time, designed to be fast and heavily armed. The decision to build these battleships was driven by the need for a strong naval presence as tensions rose globally, leading to World War II.
2. Launched – December 7, 1942
The USS New Jersey was launched on December 7, 1942, a date that holds historical weight as it coincides with the attack on Pearl Harbor. This launch was a key event, showcasing the United States’ commitment to strengthening its naval forces during the war.
The ship was sponsored by Helen W. Waller, the wife of the New Jersey governor. Its launch marked a significant step towards its eventual deployment, as it was one of the largest and most advanced battleships of its time.
3. Commissioned for Service – May 23, 1943
The USS New Jersey was officially commissioned into service on May 23, 1943. This marked the beginning of its active duty in the U.S. Navy. Equipped with nine 16-inch guns and an array of anti-aircraft weapons, the battleship was ready for combat.
It participated in numerous major operations during World War II, including the Battle of Tarawa and the Philippines Campaign. The ship’s powerful firepower and speed made it a formidable asset in naval warfare.
4. Decommissioned – June 30, 1948
After serving in World War II, the USS New Jersey was decommissioned on June 30, 1948. By this time, the world was shifting into a post-war environment, and there was a need to reduce military expenditures.
The battleship was put into reserve status at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. This decommissioning marked the end of its initial service period, but the ship would remain part of U.S. naval history, waiting for its next chapter.
5. Recommissioned for Service in Korea – November 21, 1950
The USS New Jersey was recommissioned on November 21, 1950, during the Korean War. The U.S. Navy needed naval support, so the battleship returned to active service. It helped in key operations, including the Inchon Landing and bombarding North Korean positions.
This recommissioning demonstrated the Iowa-class battleships’ ability to be reactivated for new conflicts, even after years of decommissioning. The USS New Jersey served until the end of the Korean War.
6. Decommissioned Again – August 21, 1957
The USS New Jersey was decommissioned for the second time on August 21, 1957. After serving in the Korean War, the Navy decided to reduce its active fleet due to budget constraints and a shift in military strategy during the Cold War.
The battleship was placed in reserve at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, where it would remain until further notice. This decommissioning was part of a larger trend of reducing the number of large battleships in favor of newer naval technologies and strategies.
7. Reactivated & Modernized – 1967-1968
Between 1967 and 1968, the USS New Jersey underwent a significant reactivation and modernization. This upgrade was driven by the need for powerful naval support during the Vietnam War.
The Navy invested in updating the ship’s systems and weapons, including adding missile systems, improved radar, and new fire control systems. These enhancements made the battleship more versatile and capable of engaging in modern warfare.
8. Recommissioned for Service in Vietnam – April 6, 1968
On April 6, 1968, the USS New Jersey was recommissioned for service during the Vietnam War. Its return to active duty was crucial as the U.S. increased its military involvement in the region.
The battleship provided naval gunfire support for ground troops, delivering heavy bombardments against enemy positions. Its 16-inch guns were particularly effective, allowing for precision strikes from offshore.
The USS New Jersey’s role in Vietnam showcased its adaptability and importance as a key asset in the Navy’s operations.
9. Decommissioned for the Last Time – December 17, 1969
The USS New Jersey was decommissioned for the last time on December 17, 1969. Following its service in Vietnam, the Navy again faced budgetary constraints and a shift in military priorities, leading to the decision to retire the battleship.
This marked the end of its operational career after nearly three decades of service. The USS New Jersey was then moved to the reserve fleet at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, where it would remain until its future as a museum was determined.
10. Arrived at Camden Waterfront as a Museum – October 15, 2001
On October 15, 2001, the USS New Jersey arrived at the Camden Waterfront, where it was opened to the public as a museum. This transition allowed visitors to explore the battleship’s rich history and experience life aboard a Navy vessel.
As a museum, it serves as a living memorial to its sailors and an educational resource for future generations. Its presence in Camden has become an iconic part of the waterfront, attracting history enthusiasts and tourists while preserving the battleship’s legacy.
11. $10 Million Refurbishment – 2024
To restore the USS New Jersey, it must be brought back to its former glory. This Iowa-class battleship got a big $10 million upgrade to help preserve its history and legacy as a museum piece.
This project involved replacing 1,200 anodes and checking 160 holes in the ship. It’s the first major maintenance and repainting job in 32 years. The refurbishment is expected to last 60 days, just before Memorial Day.
As a museum, the USS New Jersey costs $10,000 each day for its maintenance, which is funded by tourist visits and donations. After the overhaul, it reopened for visitors on June 20th 2024, expecting to attract around 80,000 people each year.
Source:
Read Next:
Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
