On this episode, hosts Peter Ravella and Tyler Buckingham step aboard USS New Jersey (BB-62) to learn about her amazing service history and why battleships like the New Jersey were the flagships of the United States Navy through World War II. Joining the show are Ryan Szimanski, Director of Curatorial and Educational Affairs, and Libby Jones, Director of Education and Digital Media at Battleship New Jersey. Battleship New Jersey is the most decorated battleship in Navy history, earning distinction in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and conflicts in the Middle East. The New Jersey’s history spanned over half the 20th century, from her design in 1938 until 1991. She was launched on the first anniversary of Pearl Harbor, and went on to steam more miles, fight in more battles, and fire more shells than any other battleship in history. In World War II, the New Jersey led the Pacific Fleet under Admirals Spruance and Halsey and fought in the two largest naval battles in history. She was reactivated to fight in the Korean War, and again to fight in the Vietnam War, when she was the world’s only operating battleship. She was reactivated for a third time in the Cold War to assist in Desert Storm. Now, as a museum and memorial, the ship has found a new life, thanks in large part to the YouTube channel that the curators up on 6 days a week. We talk about the ship, her history and service, and how digital medial has revolutionized how the public can access the Battleship from they own living rooms. Check it out, only on ASPN!

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related