USS NEW JERSEY (BB 62): Majestic Starboard View of the Legendary Battleship at Pearl Harbor, 1986

On May 24, 1986, the USS New Jersey (BB 62), one of the most celebrated battleships in U.S. naval history, was captured in a stunning elevated starboard view at Pearl Harbor. This iconic image, taken by USN photographer PH1 Javner, offers a rare glimpse of the battleship’s grandeur as it rested in the historic waters of Pearl Harbor.

The USS New Jersey, a formidable Iowa-class battleship, served with distinction in multiple conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and even during the Lebanese Civil War in the 1980s. Known for its impressive firepower and robust armor, the ship symbolized American naval strength for decades.

In this image, the battleship is shown in its full glory, with its sleek lines and powerful armament clearly visible. The starboard view highlights the ship’s massive 16-inch guns, capable of launching shells weighing up to 2,700 pounds. The battleship’s towering superstructure, bristling with radar and communication equipment, emphasizes its role as a command center on the high seas.

Pearl Harbor, where this photograph was taken, is itself a site of deep historical significance. The harbor was the site of the infamous Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, which propelled the United States into World War II. Decades later, the presence of the USS New Jersey at Pearl Harbor served as a reminder of the resilience and enduring strength of the U.S. Navy.

The photograph taken by PH1 Javner not only captures a moment in time but also serves as a tribute to the legacy of the USS New Jersey. As the battleship floats majestically in the waters of Pearl Harbor, it embodies the honor, bravery, and sacrifice of all who served aboard her.

Today, the USS New Jersey is preserved as a museum ship in Camden, New Jersey, where it continues to inspire visitors with its storied past. However, images like this one ensure that the battleship’s legacy will endure, reminding future generations of its vital role in American history.