WWII salvaging the USS Arizona - photo

[Altair]

USS Arizona's foremast being removed, May 6, 1942. At the time this photo was taken, the Navy brass were considering refloating the battleship. It was later determined that she would not be fit for service even if she could be salvaged due to the extensive damage on her hull.

Fullsize image: https://diqn32j8nouaz.cloudfront.net...e_fullsize.jpg



Pacific Fleet Salvage Diary:

https://www.nps.gov/perl/learn/histo...r_Diary1-2.pdf


Previously:

USS Pennsylvania drydocked - photo
1942 construction of USS Alabama - photo
Battleship Tirpitz brick building camouflage - photos
HMS Renown battlecruiser - photo
Battleship Dante Alighieri - photo
15-inch Italian battleship guns - photo

[Toolmaker51]

Rumor has it, refloating would make USS Arizona inspirational, and a more specific target, symbolically.
She was only one of the battleship group until then. Photos of damage and sinking made her an icon. As it turned out, naval surface engagements became far less an element of strategic plan or tactical response. That proved out unquestionably, a mere six months later.