USS Alabama

The 16" guns on USS Alabama.
(Photos by Jeff Noffsinger)

 Ventured to Mobile today to tour the Battleship USS Alabama. The Alabama was commissioned August 16, 1942. She earned nine Battle Stars and shot down 22 enemy planes during World War II. The ship is 680 feet long, with a beam of 108 feet. She is registered at 35,000 tons (70 million pounds), but under battle conditions, she weighed in at over 45,000 tons (90million pounds).
She normally had a crew of about 2,500 men aboard.

I was amazed to learn that the ship had, in addition to the expected places like sleeping areas, kitchens, medical area, etc., a shoe repair shop, photography dark room/print shop, post office, and a soda fountain! The ship is so huge, it's kind of like a small city in there.

Also at Battleship Park is the Submarine USS Drum, which was commissioned November 1, 1941. The ship is 311 feet long with a beam of 27 feet, 4 inches. Her crew consisted of seven officers and 65 enlisted men. She earned 12 Battle Stars during World War II. Talk about cramped quarters! Oh my goodness! I can't imagine being in there for two months at a time.

The visit today just made me more appreciative of our veterans, their sacrifices, their service to our country they have made and are making around the world.

If you're in the area, this site is well worth the minimal cost and the time it takes to see it

Jeff aboard the USS Alabama.

Jim & Linda on the deck of the Submarine USS Drum.