The USS Texas, a formidable name in naval history, continues to ride the waves of time, now set to reemerge as a museum piece reflecting the rich legacy of maritime warfare. In the twilight of its service, the USS Texas stands as the sole surviving battleship to have witnessed the tumult of both World Wars.
Her journey began with a launch in 1912, just as the world was pivoting toward a global conflict. Initially providing support in the Veracruz incident without firing a shot, the USS Texas came into her own during World War I, contributing to convoy missions and blockade duties. After the war, she pioneered advancements, becoming the first American battleship to launch an aircraft from her decks in 1919. The interwar period saw substantial upgrades, fortifying her for the trials of World War II, where she played pivotal roles from Operation Torch in North Africa to the momentous D-Day invasion. And even as she advanced to Pacific theatres like Iwo Jima and Okinawa, she stood resilient against kamikaze attacks, her guns roaring in defense of the troops ashore.
As her service ended, the USS Texas transitioned from a weapon of war to a guardian of history. She became the first permanent floating museum in the U.S., an emblem of honor and remembrance for the valiant who served. However, time and the elements wrought their toll on the venerable ship. By the 21st century, the leaks and decay underscored the urgent need for restoration.
August 2022 saw the USS Texas, embark on a significant overhaul. Hauled to the Gulf Copper shipyard in Galveston, she underwent vital surgery beneath the waterline. filling small holes, doubling the steel in certain sections, and replacing the torpedo blisters.
Currently in dry dock, this centenarian vessel is poised to return to the water in early 2024. Then, the painstaking process of repainting her superstructure and restoring her interior will begin, ensuring that the spirit of the ship is preserved.
The State of Texas is spending $60 million on the project. The total cost is estimated at $75 million. Fundraising is underway for the remaining money. The next big decision is where to dock the Texas permanently, a move that won’t take place until late 2024 or early 2025. Travis Davis, the foundation’s vice president of ship operations, says by the time Texas once again welcomes visitors aboard, the ship will boast a reimagined interior: holograms of actual crew members and virtual reality goggles to simulate battle conditions. “One thing we’re trying to do is make it more immersive—using sight, sound, smell—so you can see what it was like to be on a battleship like this.”
Relevant articles:
– Battleship Texas Foundation, battleshiptexas.org
– USS Texas: How a 100 Year Old Battleship Is Making a Comeback, The National Interest
– Permanent home nears for historic Battleship Texas, nbcdfw.com
– The U.S.S. Texas, Once the World’s Most Formidable Battleship, Gets a Dramatic Makeover, Texas Monthly