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West Virginia (Ship)

 Organization

Biography

The USS West Virginia (BB-48) was severely damaged during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, sinking to the harbor bottom after being struck by multiple torpedoes and bombs. After extensive salvage and modernization efforts, she returned to active service in mid-1944, participating in crucial Pacific Theater operations including the Battles of Leyte Gulf, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. Despite being hit by a kamikaze during the Okinawa campaign, the USS West Virginia continued to provide fire support for ground forces and was present at Japan's surrender, earning five battle stars for her World War II service.

Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:

Earl Malcolm Stiefel Papers

 Collection
Identifier: 000055
Abstract The Earl Malcom Stiefel Papers contains material related to First Class Fire Controlman Earl Malcolm Stiefel's military service and the movements and service history of the USS West Virginia. This collection consists of military service documents, personal journals, military passes, personal documents, published magazines, published materials related to the USS West Virginia, and military roster photographs from the USS West Virginia and the United States. Naval Training Center in Great...
Dates: 1930-1945
Found in: Center for Pacific War Studies / National Museum of the Pacific War

James R. Connor Papers

 Collection
Identifier: 000046
Abstract

The James R. Connor Papers include a range of documents and materials primarily related to James R. Connor’s military service aboard the USS Hancock. This collection includes service records, photographs, pamphlets, publications, reunion materials, and personal documents. Additionally, there is material related to his brother, Theodore, and his service on the USS West Virginia.

Dates: 1934 - 2003
Found in: Center for Pacific War Studies / National Museum of the Pacific War

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