The USS New Jersey: A Battlefield Legend in the Vietnam War
The USS New Jersey BB-62, a battleship of the Iowa class, played a significant role during the Vietnam War, particularly in the early 1960s and into the 1970s. This article explores its performance, impact, and legacy in the context of the Vietnam War.
Key Points about the USS New Jersey
The USS New Jersey provided naval gunfire support for ground forces in Vietnam. Its 16-inch guns were capable of delivering devastating firepower, making it a valuable asset for the U.S. military. The ship fired thousands of rounds at enemy positions, often in support of Marine and Army operations (Section 1)
Gunfire Support
During various operations, such as Operation Sea Dragon, the New Jersey aimed to interdict North Vietnamese supply lines and support ground forces. It also conducted operations along the coast and in the Gulf of Tonkin. The vessel was noted for its fire control capabilities, which allowed for accurate targeting of enemy positions. The ship’s crew utilized advanced radar and fire control systems for enhanced targeting accuracy (Section 2).
The Presence of the Battleship
The presence of a battleship like the USS New Jersey provided a significant morale boost to U.S. troops on the ground. The sight and sound of its big guns were often reassuring to soldiers engaged in combat. However, the use of battleships faced criticism. Some argued that air power was more effective and versatile, and there were concerns about the limitations of naval gunfire in a jungle environment (Section 3).
The New Jersey’s Service and Feedback
I was a Fire Control Officer on the heavy cruiser USS Saint Paul CA-73 in 1968 when the New Jersey first arrived in the Vietnam area. I witnessed her first mission and was impressed by the vessel. Admirals and a few members of the press were present to observe the demonstration. A request was made for a target at a distance of about 50,000 yards, and the New Jersey let loose with a mighty salvo. When the response from the ground asked for “Drop 100 yards fire for effect,” it seemed like a charade designed to showcase the ship's capabilities.
Despite this, the New Jersey did a lot of good work during her time in the war. The ship performed very effectively in various operations. It is unfortunate that she was not placed in New York Harbor where thousands could visit, instead of being stationed in Camden to satisfy short-sighted New Jersey politicians who lacked vision.
Legacy of the USS New Jersey
The service of the USS New Jersey in Vietnam remains a testament to the battleship’s role in modern warfare. It was one of the last battleships to see combat, and its contributions highlighted the challenges and complexities of naval operations in the Vietnam War. The legacy of the USS New Jersey is a reminder of the significant impact that such vessels can have on military operations (Section 4).