Part of our vacation included seeing the USS North Carolina in Wilmington
Here’s some cool history:
USS North Carolina was the first modern American battleship built after World War I. She was the class leader for a new generation of American battleships and set a standard for new shipbuilding technology that combined high speeds with powerful armament and formidable protection.
-
During the
Battle of the Eastern Solomons in August 1942, USS North Carolina was assigned to escort the carriers USS Enterprise and USS Saratoga. Her superior performance during this action proved the concept of the fast battle ship providing antiaircraft coverage for the carrier. Her antiaircraft fire was so intense that USS Enterprise signaled her in alarm, “Are you afire?” This action established the primary role of the fast battleship throughout World War II as the protector of the aircraft carrier. -
Beginning in August 1942 USS North Carolina continually saw service in the war against Japan until the surrender in 1945. USS North Carolina has the best war record for any surviving American battleship for the war in the Pacific. USS North
Carolina received 15 battle stars for her World War II service. -
USS North Carolina is in excellent condition and retains all of her World War II integrity.
Note: It was super hot in there. I have respect for the guys who had to endure the heat (especially in the boiler room)
: )